The Wedding Dress

A parent might reach for this book when their child is navigating the intensity of a new friendship or a first crush, especially if that child has big ideas that aren't always shared by their friends. The story follows seven-year-old Ann, who has meticulously planned her own wedding to her best friend, Michael, without asking him first. When Michael expresses that he's not ready, their differing expectations lead to frustration and an argument, threatening their friendship. This book provides a humorous and gentle entry point into complex topics like communication, consent, and respecting boundaries. It's an excellent tool for showing children ages 4 to 8 that it's okay for friends to want different things and that listening to each other is the key to resolving conflicts. It validates big feelings while modeling how to compromise and prioritize friendship, making it a valuable resource for social-emotional learning.