Big feelings can be confusing for children. Anger may feel like heat rushing through the body. Worry can make thoughts move too quickly. Sadness may feel heavy, while fear can make even familiar situations seem uncertain. Young children often experience these emotions before they have the words or tools to explain them.
In DOG, WHAT CAN I DO?, author Sarah Robinson gives children a gentle and reassuring way to explore those difficult moments. Through colorful animal characters, rhythmic language and practical coping ideas, the book reminds young readers that every feeling matters. Rather than labeling emotions such as sadness, fear or anger as “bad,” the story encourages children to recognize, accept and work through them.
The book begins with an important question: “What can I do?” That question shifts the focus from feeling helpless to discovering a healthy next step. Each character faces an emotional challenge and shares a simple strategy that children can understand and practice.
When the dog feels overwhelmed and cannot sit still, movement becomes the answer. Jumping, wiggling, running and playing can help release restless energy and calm a racing mind. This section validates children who need physical movement while also teaching them to notice what their bodies are asking for.
Other animal friends offer equally accessible techniques. A cat uses deep breathing, humming, buzzing or gentle tapping to feel safe and strong. A fish counts bubbles, colors, breaths or other nearby objects to slow down worried thoughts. These ideas turn emotional regulation into something playful rather than intimidating.
The book also shows children that independence does not mean handling everything alone. When something feels too difficult, the ant considers where help might be found. Reaching out to family members, friends, teachers and other trusted people is presented as a positive and courageous choice.
Loneliness, fear, friendship and sadness are handled with the same compassion. A child who misses someone can draw a picture or write a letter. A frightened child can imagine a personal safe place filled with comforting sights, sounds and sensations. A child who feels left out can look for common ground and begin connecting through small moments of shared play.
One of the book’s strongest messages is that feelings do not need to be pushed away. Sadness can be felt like a wave that eventually moves back out to sea. Anger can be cooled through cold water, ice and calming imagination. Feeling stuck can be managed by slowing down and taking one small step at a time.
Sarah Robinson brings valuable experience to the story as a mental health therapist, yoga instructor and mother. Her approach helps children build emotional awareness without making the lessons feel clinical or overwhelming. The comforting illustrations and friendly animals make the book suitable for shared reading at home, in classrooms or during counseling sessions.
DOG, WHAT CAN I DO? does more than describe emotions. It gives children practical choices. Most importantly, it teaches them that their feelings are valid, support is available and even the biggest emotions can become easier to understand one gentle step at a time.
Available now on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H1T9JWN9/
Available on Ingramspark: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=Jw36rbKLHvbMjGyuebunjM2lTGbznIb82lMTjUvxL2m
