The Big Hello

A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling anxious or sad about an upcoming or recent move. "The Big Hello" tells the story of a little girl who moves from the East Coast to California and feels terribly lonely, missing her old home and friends. Her only companion is her doll, Sara, onto whom she projects all her own feelings of sadness and fear. By taking care of Sara and helping her doll adjust, the girl finds the courage to face her new surroundings and eventually say hello to a new neighbor. This gentle, quiet story is perfect for children ages 4 to 7. It validates the big feelings that come with change and models a healthy way for children to process emotions through imaginative play, showing how a beloved toy can be a powerful tool for building resilience.