Pete's a Pizza

Reach for this book when your child is having a tough day because things didn't go their way, especially when a change in plans leads to a big, grumpy mood. It is the perfect tool for moving through disappointment by using physical play and humor to reset a child's emotional state. The story follows Pete, who is miserable because rain has canceled his outdoor plans. His father decides to cheer him up by pretending Pete is a ball of pizza dough. Through gentle physical play, like being kneaded and sprinkled with pretend toppings, Pete is transformed from a sulky boy into a giggling child. This classic is ideal for ages 3 to 6, modeling how parents can use creativity and tactile connection to help children regulate their emotions and find joy again.