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Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
First Day Feels by Amy Sage and Roni Nocon follows Mateo and Penny on their first day at a new school, experiencing a mix of excitement, nerves, and uncertainty. With guidance from their parents, teacher Ms. Thomas, and classmates, they learn strategies to manage their emotions, such as breathing exercises and positive self-talk. Throughout the day, they have their peaks and pits—feeling overwhelmed, making friends, resolving problems, and overcoming doubt. Mateo finds comfort in his Calm Caterpillar and a photo of his family, while Penny gains confidence through self-encouragement. Their classmates also share their feelings and support one another. Through problem-solving, kindness, and shared experiences, the children learn that it's okay to feel many emotions at once. By the end of the day, Mateo and Penny feel proud of their growth, ready to embrace new friendships and future school days with excitement and confidence.
Amy Sage and Roni Nocon’s First Day Feels: I'm Going to Kindergarten is a heartwarming and practical guide for young children in managing the emotions of starting school. With engaging storytelling and relatable characters, the book normalizes first-day jitters while offering concrete coping strategies. The writing is simple, accessible, and reassuring, making it a perfect read-aloud for parents and educators alike. Margarita Fomenko’s gorgeous illustrations, with their soft aquatic palette and muted primary colors, are a perfect soothing visual experience, while the diverse cast of children provides inclusivity and representation. Beyond the story, the interactive exercises, like the "Take 5 Breathing" technique and role-playing scenarios, make this book an invaluable resource for emotional learning. Both comforting and empowering, this beautifully created book helps children embrace their feelings and approach new experiences with confidence.
