Just like every other mom (ok, maybe even more), I lean on the words, “Use your words!” all day long. From shoe tying frustration to brotherly battles to baby screeches, I constantly beg my children to calm the chaos with a few simple words. Sometimes it works like magic. But most of the time? Well, it takes work.
In our house, anger is a huge driver of the plea. But talking down a kid who’s furious is no simple task — it’s an art form. One I’m constantly trying to master. Enter When Miles Got Mad — the new children’s book from my friends at The Mother Company.
I got a sneak peek of this book (which will be available April 16, 2013 in bookstores nationwide and in The Mother Company store), and I love it. The premise is that Miles’ little brother breaks one of his favorite toys. Of course this sends Miles into a fit of rage. But when he catches a glimpse of himself in the mirror mid-meltdown, he sees an angry red monster instead of himself. He tries different ways of managing and expressing his anger, but in the end, only talking about his feelings turns his reflection back into his former, sweet self.
It’s such a wonderful, relatable metaphor — for kids and adults alike. Goodness knows when I lose it, I turn into the monster version of myself and things inevitably get worse before they get better. This book, which is simple in its delivery, is very effective in expressing the lesson.
I have no doubt this is one my family will be reading often as a reminder for how to keep our cool, even when things make us mad. (Because something always will…it’s just in our nature.)
If you think Miles might lead to some good discussions with your little one, leave a comment for a chance to win a copy before Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at 11:59pm PT. (Have fun with the comment…How many times a day do you say, “Use your words!”? When was the last time a monster visited your house? Do you or your child need this book more?) One lucky commenter (in the U.S. or Canada only) will be chosen at random to win a copy and contacted by email.
Disclosure: As a friend of The Mother Company — a company which provides online and digital tools to help parents raise socially and emotionally strong kids — I was sent a copy of the book for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
It’s gotten to the point in our household where mom gives herself a timeout along with the kids because using our words at top volume only stresses me out even more!
I hear you, I had to go for a walk to calm my monster yesterday!
Congratulations, Shuba! Random.org chose you as the winner…look out for an email from me.
Little brother is just old enough to start grabbing all of big’s toys…waiting for the day one does get broken and we have an angry mirror monster to deal with! It would be great to whip out this book. We love the Mother Co!
Yes, The Mother Co is full of great tools. Thanks for commenting!
We could really use this book right about now. Rough waters…
I hear you, my friend. I hear you.
I could use this book as well i’m sure, but i’d love to read it to my son. He’s almost 4 and he’s getting much more outspoken about his emotions so this would be great!
Absolutely! Thanks for entering.
I was literally just searching those Scholastic book order forms for books about feelings, ie anger. I’m thinking this book is right up my alley!! Thanks for sharing!
Ooh, this is perfect for you.
Hi! My 21 month old is just starting to use his words regularly now. Unfortunately when it comes right down to emotional situations, he adamantly chooses not to. He prefers to use his hands, or his entire body really. This same 21 month old LOVES books, so I think I’ve just found a perfect place to start teaching him to USE HIS WORDS to express his feelings. 🙂 Also, he does have a 6 month old little brother, so the premise is fantastic.
It definitely sounds like something your boys could use for years to come. Oh the fun!