A Reassuring Guide to Navigating Big Monday Mornings and Even Bigger Feelings
Author: Amanda Neary
Illustrator: Diana Maksymenko
Age range: 3-7 years
Year: 2026
Monday morning has arrived, and for little Ellis, the transition from weekend play to weekday routine is feeling… loud. His feelings are bubbling over, and everything feels a bit too much. But instead of being told to “quiet down,” Ellis is shown how to “let it out.”
Written by a licensed clinical professional counselor, this story follows Ellis as he navigates frustration and overwhelm through connection and play. Whether it’s T-Rex stomping or finding safety in a hug, Ellis learns that his emotions are welcome and that there are healthy ways to move through them. It’s a human-centric, empathetic look at the “big feeler” experience, offering a roadmap for families to co-regulate with confidence and a touch of fun.
Why this book is helpful:
- Expert-Backed Tools: Since the author is an LCPC, the regulation techniques are clinically sound but “disguised” as play to keep kids engaged.
- Validates High Sensitivity: Specifically written for “big feeling” kids who struggle with the sensory and emotional weight of daily transitions.
- Focuses on Co-Regulation: Shifts the focus from correcting a child’s behavior to connecting with their internal world.
- Relatable for Parents: Reflects the real-life struggles of a messy Monday morning, making caregivers feel seen and supported.
- Includes Family Art: Features a special touch of the author’s own children’s artwork, making the book feel authentic and deeply personal.
If you have a child who dreads the Monday transition, read this together as part of your bedtime routine. It’s professional, polished, and reminds us that we don’t have to fear the “bubble over”—we just need to learn how to let it out.
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