
Reach for this book when your child experiences explosive 'big' feelings that seem to come out of nowhere, especially when those feelings lead to actions they later regret. It is a vital tool for parents of children who struggle with the physical intensity of anger and need to understand that while their feelings are valid, their behaviors are manageable. The story follows a young boy as he navigates the overwhelming sensation of anger, which he describes as getting 'too big.' By focusing on the internal physical cues and providing a clear path toward emotional regulation, the book helps children ages 3 to 7 transition from feeling out of control to feeling empowered. It is an excellent choice for normalizing the heat of a tantrum while introducing practical, gentle strategies for cooling down.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book deals with the shame and guilt that often follow a behavioral outburst. The approach is secular and highly realistic, focusing on the sensory experience of anger. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, reinforcing that the child is still a 'good kid' even when they have 'big' feelings.
A 4 or 5-year-old who feels deep remorse after a meltdown and needs to see that their anger is a separate thing from their identity. It is perfect for children who are highly sensitive to their own 'loss of control.'
This book is best read when the child is already calm. It can be read cold, but parents should be ready to mimic the breathing exercises alongside the child during the reading. A parent who has just experienced a 'red zone' moment with their child, perhaps involving shouting or throwing, and wants to reconnect through a teaching moment rather than just discipline.
Younger children (3-4) will respond to the visual cues of the anger 'growing' and the simple mechanics of the breathing. Older children (6-7) will connect more with the internal monologue and the relief of regaining self-control.
Unlike many books that simply label the emotion, this book focuses heavily on the physical 'bigness' of the feeling and the specific, step-by-step physical response needed to shrink it, making it highly actionable.
The book features a young boy who experiences a surge of anger. He describes the physical sensations of this 'big' feeling and how it affects his day. Through a series of relatable scenarios, he learns and models specific self-regulation techniques, such as deep breathing and counting, to bring his emotions back down to a manageable size.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.