A Second Is a Hiccup

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the abstract concept of waiting or asking repetitive questions about when an upcoming event will happen. Time is a notoriously difficult concept for young children to grasp because it cannot be seen or touched, but Hazel Hutchins transforms these invisible units into relatable, physical experiences. By comparing a second to a hiccup or a minute to the time it takes to tie a shoe, the book grounds mathematical measurements in the familiar rhythms of a child's daily life. It is an ideal choice for building a bridge between a toddler's 'now' and the 'later' they are still learning to navigate. Beyond the educational value, the gentle rhyming text and soft illustrations create a soothing atmosphere, making it a perfect wind-down read for ages 3 to 7. It validates a child's growing curiosity about the world while reinforcing the security of family routines and the joy found in small, fleeting moments.