What Does It Mean to Be Present?: (mindfulness for Kids Picture Book) (What Does It Mean To Be…?)
A Mindfulness Classic for Kids
What Does It Mean to Be Present? is a gentle guide that helps young children connect with the present moment through everyday experiences. by weaving mindfulness into familiar scenarios-like playing with friends, helping a sibling, or walking on the beach-the book teaches kids to slow down, notice details, and respond with kindness.Its simple yet profound messages encourage emotional awareness and calm, making it a valuable tool for parents, teachers, and therapists. The vibrant illustrations and relatable stories create a welcoming atmosphere,allowing children to explore concepts like focus and patience in a way that feels natural and engaging. With its inclusive characters and cozy family and school settings, this resource bridges the gap between mindfulness and real life, fostering deeper connections and a sense of well-being.
Rooted in social-emotional learning principles, this book supports self-awareness, empathy, and compassion in children aged 4-8. It’s designed to be shared, whether through bedtime reading or classroom activities, and its structured reflection prompts help caregivers and educators reinforce key lessons. The inclusion of diverse characters ensures every child sees themselves in the story, while the short, accessible format makes it easy to integrate into daily routines. Winner of multiple awards, it’s a trusted choice for those seeking to nurture emotional intelligence in young minds, offering practical benefits that extend beyond the page and into everyday interactions.
Pros and Cons
- Easy to integrate into daily routines - Short, relatable stories make mindfulness accessible for young readers.
- Inclusive character design – diverse characters and family settings help kids see themselves in the narrative.
- SEL-aligned content - Promotes empathy, self-awareness, and compassion in line with educational standards.
- Award-winning recognition – Backed by prestigious accolades like Mom’s Choice and Moonbeam Gold.
- Compact format - 33 pages are ideal for short attention spans and quick reads.
- basic design features - No enhanced typesetting or word-wise functionality may limit interactivity for some users.
- Lessons may require follow-up - While the book introduces concepts, additional activities might be needed for deeper practice.
- Focused on presence – Some children may need more variety in mindfulness themes.
| Key Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| ISBN-13 | 978-1619890053 |
| Publisher | little Pickle Press |
| Publication Date | July 30, 2010 |
| Grade Level | Preschool – 3 |
| Reading Age | 3 - 8 years |
Unlock Your potential
While picture books and series both offer valuable tools for nurturing mindfulness and social-emotional learning (SEL) in children, “What Does it Mean to Be Present?…?” stands out as a concise, accessible guide. Its simple yet profound approach to teaching presence through everyday moments makes it perfect for sparking curiosity and fostering calm in young minds. With award-winning design and inclusive storytelling, this book is a must-have for parents, educators, and therapists seeking clear, actionable lessons in mindfulness that align with SEL principles. Let your child explore the art of being present-and discover the power of mindful awareness in a world that often feels too fast.
What Does It Mean to Be Present?: (Mindfulness for Kids Picture Book) (what Does It Mean To Be…?)
Key Benefit: Teaches children to stay centered in the moment, build focus, and cultivate compassion through relatable, real-life scenarios.
ASIN: B06WRN8F57 | Publisher: Little Pickle Press | Accessibility: Learn more | Publication Date: July 30, 2010 | Edition: Reprint | Language: English | File Size: 6.6 MB | Print length: 33 pages | ISBN-13: 978-1619890053 | Grade Level: Preschool – 3 | Reading Age: 3 – 8 years
Customer Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 stars | Best Sellers Rank: #660 in Children’s Values Books, #854 in Children’s Social situations Books | Series: What Does It Mean To Be.?
