Additional information
by Elizabeth Verdick (Author), Marieka Heinlen (Illustrator)
Help kids learn that patience takes practice, and waiting isn't wasted time
Waiting is part of life--but that doesn't mean it's easy. In Waiting Is Not Forever, children learn that waiting doesn't have to mean doing nothing. Whether they're waiting for a turn, for dinner, or for something bigger, this reassuring book helps kids ages 4-7 understand that waiting time can be filled with noticing, imagining, creating, and playing. With simple text and bright, inclusive illustrations, this book encourages children to stay optimistic and calm, even when things seem to take forever.
In kid-friendly language, this book gives children tools for managing the feelings that often come with waiting, like frustration, restlessness, and boredom. It encourages positive self-talk ("I'm calm and patient!") and shows how everyday waiting moments can become opportunities for creativity and fun. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior(R) series, this title supports young children to learn a valuable life skill.
- Normalizes waiting and the uncomfortable feelings that can come with it
- Teaches ways to stay engaged during wait times--without relying on screens
- Encourages positive self-talk and calm behaviors during moments of anticipation
- Uses relatable, inclusive illustrations to show kids waiting in everyday situations
- Expands on the themes in the board book with the same title
Waiting Is Not Forever is a helpful tool for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to support children in building patience and resilience. It can be read before or during waiting situations--like car rides, long lines, or transitions--to spark discussion and set expectations. A special back matter section for adults offers tips and simple activities to help children stay busy, regulate their emotions, and practice waiting with calm and confidence. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.
Author Biography
Elizabeth Verdick has been writing books since 1997, the year her daughter was born. Her two children are the inspiration for nearly everything she writes. Before becoming an author, Elizabeth edited books for children and parents.
These days she writes books for babies, toddlers, teens, and every age in between. She especially loves creating new board books. The Happy Healthy Baby(R) series is designed to capture the interest of the littlest readers. Elizabeth's Toddler Tools(R) series helps young children and their parents cope with those tough times and transitions that happen every day (like naptime and bedtime). In the Best Behavior(R) series, she helps toddlers reach new milestones and improve their day-to-day behavior.
Elizabeth also enjoys getting the chance to look at the funny side of life in the Laugh and Learn(R) series, which helps kids ages 8-13 get a handle on the social-emotional skills they're developing throughout the elementary and middle school years. She's also coauthor of The Survival Guide for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (And Their Parents), which offers kids with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) their own comprehensive resource for both understanding their condition and finding tools to cope with the challenges they face every day.
Elizabeth lives and writes near St. Paul, Minnesota.
Marieka Heinlen received her BFA at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and also studied at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London.
She launched her career as an award-winning children's book illustrator with Hands Are Not for Hitting and has illustrated all of the books in the Best Behavior(R) and Toddler Tools(R) series. Marieka focuses her work on books and other materials for children, teens, parents, and teachers.
She lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, with her husband, son, and daughter.
