"Like Waves in the Ocean: Adventures in Being Highly Sensitive" is a heartwarming guide for families navigating the world with a highly sensitive child. Authored by Mallory Munson and Larisa Ivanković, this book uses a gentle, relatable approach to help children understand their intense emotions. Comparing feelings to ocean waves, it empowers children to recognize and express their happiness, sadness, anger, and overwhelm. Through a fun adventure, the book normalizes big feelings, teaching self-soothing techniques and encouraging open communication. It's a perfect resource for families seeking to embrace and celebrate the unique strengths of their highly sensitive child, fostering a loving and supportive environment where emotions are understood and valued.
Review Like Waves In The Ocean
Oh my goodness, I absolutely adore "Like Waves in the Ocean: Adventures in Being Highly Sensitive"! This book isn't just a children's story; it's a lifeline for families navigating the often-intense emotional landscape of highly sensitive children. From the moment I opened it, I was captivated by the charming illustrations – they're incredibly cute and perfectly complement the heartwarming narrative. But the real magic lies in the way the authors, Mallory Munson and Larisa Ivanković, handle the subject matter.
The book doesn't shy away from the big, sometimes overwhelming feelings that come with high sensitivity. Instead, it embraces them, portraying them as powerful ocean waves – sometimes gentle ripples, sometimes crashing swells. This powerful metaphor allows children to understand that their intense emotions are normal, valid, and even a source of strength. The story gently guides young readers through recognizing, naming, and expressing these feelings, offering practical strategies for self-soothing and coping mechanisms. The rhythmic text is incredibly soothing to read aloud, making it a truly enjoyable shared experience. I found myself completely drawn in by the playful rhyming and the adorable octopus character, who serves as a relatable and comforting guide.
What sets "Like Waves in the Ocean" apart is its ability to transform a potentially challenging topic into a positive and empowering message. It celebrates the unique gifts that come with high sensitivity, emphasizing empathy, compassion, and the ability to connect deeply with the world. The book subtly but effectively counters the societal pressures that might lead a highly sensitive child to feel ashamed or inadequate. Instead, it validates their experiences and encourages self-acceptance.
I especially appreciate the inclusion of questions at the end of the story. These thoughtfully designed prompts facilitate meaningful conversations between parents and children, providing opportunities for deeper understanding and connection. It's a fantastic tool for opening up dialogue about emotions, helping children articulate their feelings, and fostering a strong sense of emotional intelligence. Reading this book together became a cherished ritual in our household – a chance to connect, share, and learn together. My own little one memorized it quickly, a testament to its engaging nature and the clear resonance it holds for sensitive children.
Beyond the wonderful content, the production quality is equally impressive. The illustrations are not just cute; they are expressive and detailed, capturing the nuances of emotion beautifully. The book itself feels sturdy and well-made, perfect for repeated readings (and there will be many!). In short, "Like Waves in the Ocean" is a treasure – a book that will help children embrace their sensitivity, understand their emotions, and build confidence in navigating the complexities of the world. It's a must-have for any family with a highly sensitive child, and honestly, a heartwarming read for adults as well. I give it my highest recommendation without reservation.
Information
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.08 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 33
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
Preview Book
