Playful Puppy

A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling discouraged or different because their efforts don't look like everyone else's. It's a perfect story for navigating early experiences with competition or performance anxiety. In 'Playful Puppy,' a young girl named Holly loves her new puppy, but he's a bundle of playful energy, not a well-behaved show dog. When Holly takes him to a dog show, she worries he won't measure up. This gentle early reader celebrates individuality and reframes perceived flaws as unique strengths. It reassures children that being yourself is more important than winning a traditional prize, making it a wonderful choice for kids 4-8 who are developing their sense of self.