Additional information
by Linda Ness (Author), Cherry Muir (Author), Myrna McBrien (Illustrator)
Everyone Has a Dinosaur provides a simple yet innovative science-based explanation of emotional regulation.
This engaging story follows a central character who, like many children, struggles with intense emotions and everyday challenges. Guided by a wise forest owl, the concept of co-regulation unfolds, inviting readers to discover why they feel and respond the way they do.
The wise owl explains that emotional struggles arise because 'everyone has a dinosaur, ' a metaphor for the brain's stress-response system. Children will learn that the DINOSAUR is essential for experiencing emotions and acts as a protector for safety and well-being.
The reader is introduced to three key parts of our brain-the DINOSAUR, HEART, and OWL-that work together to influence thoughts and feelings, making the science behind emotions easy for children to understand and relate to.
This story helps children understand how their brain, body, and heart work together, teaching them to understand their emotions, identify stressors, and notice body signals when they're feeling upset or uncomfortable. Mindful breathing is presented as the key strategy for calming the HEART, thereby creating a more optimal state for the OWL to help with thinking and learning.
Everyone Has a Dinosaur offers valuable insights for both children and adults, emphasizing the important role of co-regulation in understanding and managing emotions.
Be sure to check out the supporting resource, Everyone Has a Dinosaur: Guidebook, to gain a deeper understanding of the science behind the brain-body heart connection.
