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A Small Tooth is a Big Change For Kids
Terrific Teeth educates young readers about losing teeth and shows them how to handle it. What is the biggest fear kids have about losing teeth?
The fear of losing baby teeth has many surprising connections. It’s partly a physiological condition as new and unexpected changes happen to your body. Something that you just partially control yourself. Children may also fear that the process might be painful.
But there is some mental pain, too. The period when children’s baby teeth start to fall out is an extraordinary stage in their development. It is a turning point when a small child suddenly grows up to meet new challenges. Children can also be worried that a new kind of witch’s smile greets them in the mirror! And who knows when new teeth will grow to fill the gaps – if ever!
That’s why approaching school age, in particular, often increases the children’s pressure and worries about whether they will learn everything they need in time before school starts. Losing teeth and getting them out one by one is a new task children must face simultaneously with many other matters. They may try to be as competent as possible but still feel small and need assistance and support.
What are some key factors parents should keep in mind when helping their kids deal with losing teeth?
It’s essential to remember that the period of children losing teeth is more significant than you would expect. To deal with it wisely, we’ll better consider all the challenges connected to that particular turning point in children’s lives.
The adults begin to talk to their offspring about starting school. The child might get the first proper bike and practice the route to the schoolyard. Besides that, there a many more new skills to learn at the latest, before school – such as reading, swimming, and dressing all by yourself. A familiar life at home is scaling outward to the unknown.
In rapid changes and constantly facing new things, it is essential that the children feel safe all the time. Adults provide their best support by devoting enough time and patience and taking the little one’s concerns seriously. Don’t rush – removing tiny teeth from a small mouth is a necessary process that lasts several years. Let’s be happy with our child about this new phase as well.
Regarding this matter, too, it is good to remember that things look different when we look at them through the eyes of a child. This is especially true of all fears. What seems like a small thing to an adult may worry a child for weeks.
What is the biggest challenge you had as a parent around dental health?
I’m a mother of three children. Fortunately – based on my personal childhood experiences – I was well aware of the possible dental challenges they might face with their teeth. It has helped me approach my children’s upbringing with patient compassion also in this respect.
Each of my children had a unique approach to this teeth-losing period. One was very scared, and taking the tooth away was a multi-day operation for the whole family. The other was a quiet loner who just needed a little encouragement and, finally, some ice cream treats. Somebody needed some praising after proudly presenting the loose teeth between tiny fingertips.
My father helped me get some of my first baby teeth out. He took me to buy ice cream to celebrate our joint success. It left me with a pleasant memory that I have sometimes applied to my children. It has been nice to celebrate the lost tooth somehow together. With my youngest child, we sometimes had to consult the dentist, and after each visit, we went to the bookshop to buy a book, some paperware, or pencils. Soon he was almost waiting for those visits.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I have many roles in our small publishing company, Wickwick Ltd, and I work with stories along the production chain. That’s why I’m also now involved in the various stages of the books that we publish. There is writing, working with translators, editors, and illustrators.
I have just written many new manuscripts, as spring and summer are fruitful seasons for me. Stories pile up, and they will be published next year. I think the five stories I have written linked to important songs in my life will be fascinating. And I trust they’ll inspire the illustrators, too. Besides, I’m writing manuscripts for two great stories with very specific backgrounds. A family friend living on the other side of the world has “donated” me his unique experiences and suggested that I turn them into children’s books. And I will do it. However, it takes some time before these stories can be published with beautiful illustrations. I hope they will be ready for my readers sometime next year.
Fortunately, there are also books ready for publishing already this autumn. It calms my impatient mind! I’ll give you some examples. Friends and Rivals tells a story of power-hungry prince brothers. The illustration is made by the Croatian Iva Dukić. This is our first book together, and I’m delighted with the result. The book’s insightful pictures convey moods from the brothers’ carefree days as children as well as from the dark years of fighting for power.
Also coming soon is The Bird Prison – a fairy tale set in a beautiful garden with surprising limitations. The book has lovely hand-drawn watercolor illustrations by the Ukrainian Sofia Panchyshyn. A perfect garden turns out to be a difficult place to live for birds of different colors, each chirping their unique song. The stiff gardener, Griselda, is definitely not a fan of birds. I have witnessed with joy how my story has been transferred to paper in Sofia’s skillful hands. I expected wonderful pictures because I’ve seen some of her work before. But the illustration of this book exceeds all my expectations. I’m sure it will get a lot of admirers!
Author Links: Facebook | Website
“Terrific Teeth” is a book about losing baby teeth.
Is Emma about to start losing her baby teeth? What if they won’t come out–will horrible crocodile teeth grow inside her mouth, as her brother says? Luckily, Dad has some ideas in mind to help her.
Help! Emma’s first baby tooth is loose. “I want to keep this tooth. It’s just fine!” Emma insists.
But Emma’s brother is scaring her, telling her those horrible crocodile teeth will grow inside her mouth if she keeps all her baby teeth. Luckily, Dad has some ideas to help, and in the end, she gets to have a tooth party.
Mom Loved Hummingbirds
Ivy and the Hummingbird follows a young girl and her grandmother as they explore the garden to discover what is making a strange buzzing sound. What was the inspiration for your story?
The hummingbird in my story honors my mother. Mom left a legacy of giving and volunteer work over the years, some of which only became known to me at the very end of her life. People came forward during Mom’s last days and shared about the many acts of kindness she showed them. I will never forget those moments.
Mom loved hummingbirds and taught me about them. I feel close to her when I see one. I want to leave this legacy for my grandchildren and for all children.
Ivy’s story developed from my work with children. I find that spending time learning about things in nature is so important to understanding ourselves and our place in the world. Some of the best days I spent as a preschool teacher were when we took nature walks, planted seeds, quietly listened to the birds chirping, or some other nature-based activity.
In my work with children, the exploration of something in the natural world was often the most meaningful. I observed that children were often afraid of things that were new or startled them, until they were better able to understand what it was that felt scary. To grow to love, appreciate and care for our natural world, we need to gain understanding, overcome fear, and make those connections.
The art in this book is beautiful and draws readers into the story. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Estelle Corke?
Estelle Corke is a wonderful and talented illustrator. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with her. Early in the process, we realized that Estelle had never seen a hummingbird before, given that she lives in the UK. Hummingbirds are only found in North and South America. Estelle did her research, and we spent a bit of time communicating about Ivy’s hummingbird, a female, Black-chinned variety.
Estelle took my simple notes from the manuscript and brought Ivy’s world to life. We connected well from the start. Estelle just seemed to understand exactly what Ivy’s world should look like, from the settings to the children’s clothing. The flowers in the garden were especially important, and Estelle created them so beautifully. She even incorporated my request for hidden hummingbirds throughout the book.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
The educational aspects that I wanted to share with children were largely about interpreting sounds in nature, and about the flowers and creatures in the garden, particularly the hummingbirds. I love the illustration on page 24, as the flowers remind me of a botanist’s journal. The observations that Ivy makes about the hummingbirds teach something about their behavior. At the end of the book, I wanted to share some hummingbird facts that might be useful in a learning environment. The hidden hummingbirds also offer an opportunity to search closely and count the hummingbirds as they are discovered.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
My next book is still in the early stages but it will be another children’s book and will involve nature. There will certainly be a hummingbird somewhere, even if in a subtle way.
Author Links: Amazon | GoodReads
Ivy and the Hummingbird
Tiny Ivy embarks on a captivating exploration of the world around her, embracing the discovery of different sounds and conquering her fears along the way. However, amidst her joyful experiences in the garden, Ivy encounters a disconcerting new sound—an alarming buzzing that lacks any hint of friendliness. With her grandmother as her steadfast ally, Ivy embarks on a courageous quest to uncover the source of this unfamiliar noise and ascertain its potential danger. Together, they venture forth, unveiling a whole new realm of possibilities right within the confines of their own backyard.
Ivy and the Hummingbird by Janice McMorris is a genuine masterpiece that eloquently captures the essence of a child’s journey of exploration. Each page of this enchanting narrative exudes wonder as the tale effortlessly interweaves factual information about hummingbirds into its heartwarming storyline. The impeccable illustrations by Estelle Corke, reminiscent of classic storybooks, further enhance the enchantment by infusing each charming picture with vivid life and gentle hues. Collectively, the story of Ivy and the Hummingbird undoubtedly earns its rightful place on every bookshelf, deserving an unequivocal five-star rating for its sheer magnificence.
Whether enjoyed individually or as a shared experience, this delightful children’s tale caters to readers of all ages. A true gem for any library, Ivy’s enchanting quest to discover something new is guaranteed to fill your heart with warmth and bring a ray of sunshine to your day.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0C4V6ND4M
Our Favorite Childhood Memories
“Neo & Nubia: The Greatest Walk” follows three children on a magical journey into the depths of human history, where they engage in an exciting exploration of their ancestry. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
When Oby and I were growing up in Boston, Massachusetts, our older brothers and sisters would create obstacle courses, scavenger hunts, and trivia games for us. Those are some of our favorite childhood memories. We learned about the world, science, technology, history, and ourselves as we had fun playing.
How did you balance the educational aspects of the story with the need to keep it engaging and entertaining for children?
We began with the end in mind. We really want every child to understand that we have a common ancestor and to learn about the “great walk” that led our African ancestors to populate every continent. With that as the goal, we figured that the best messengers for that story would be kids just like the ones that will be reading these stories. So we wrote the story in a way that would ensure every child reading it would feel like another friend – joining in and experiencing the wonderful adventure right alongside Neo and Nubia.
Your characters are intriguing and fun to follow. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Great question, Neo, Nubia, & Emeka are super relatable kids. The three values that we’re communicating through their characters are: (1) Honor and enjoy your family and loved ones, (2) Have fun learning new things, and (3) Share your ideas and gifts with the world.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
Our next book in the series is called Neo & Nubia: The First Words. The twins travel back in time to the invention of written language. From mixing their own ink to storytelling on cave walls, they learn that communication connects and builds community. The trio celebrate alongside our ancestors and “make their mark”. This experience spotlights the origin, patterns, and practice of symbolic writing, which is the science behind the 7,000+ languages across the globe that we all use today.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook Website
Cleverly written and beautifully illustrated with a trio of brilliant young kids who have to go back in time and witness some of the most important moments in human history to pass a series of important tests. It is designed to be a child’s first world history-focused picture book and their latest STEM read.
A brother and sister balance the challenges of middle school with traveling through time to save the world.
Neo and Nubia, and their schoolmate are sent back in time on a quest by their grandfather, whose health is declining, to secretly test if they have what it takes to replace him as griots to save all of the human knowledge from being lost. Equipped with their curiosity, clever antics, and ancient wisdom, they will outsmart an evil cabal that wants to erase history. If the trio is successful, they will be selected to become the next generation of griots, our “new guides.” The one catch is that time is running out, and they do not know that this adventure is both their greatest test and a dangerous trap. Neo & Nubia will explore the themes of friendship, courage, innovation, and power.
Neo & Nubia will cover the full span of human history from the first homo sapiens to the first Black and female vice president and Supreme Court justice of the United States.
This series is created by a global team of writers, illustrators, and animators from every branch of the African Diaspora.
Whingey Williams and her Wonderful Wellington Boots-Term1
“Whingey Williams and her Wonderful Wellington Boots,” a delightful anthology of short stories authored by Meredith Jeffery, takes readers on an enchanting journey through the life of a spirited young girl from Gower, Wales, and her loyal best friend, Meredith. The narrative skillfully integrates thrilling escapades, including royal encounters with the king of England, whimsical trips to Santa, and memorable strawberry-picking adventures that leave them with overindulgence in the sweet fruit. Throughout the tales, Whingey, affectionately shortened from Winifred, relies on her iconic Wellington boots as a catalyst for resolutions, rendering them an emblem of her resilience and wit.
Structured according to the educational semesters, the book positions itself as an invaluable resource for educators, fostering a synergy between leisurely reading and scholastic instruction. Jeffery invests a commendable effort into shaping the characters of Meredith and Whingey, cleverly crafting distinct attributes that portray the full range of his imaginative prowess. Every story is embroidered with charming illustrations seemingly crafted by the hands of children, further enhancing the appeal of the narrative.
One of the notable facets of this collection is its emphasis on the cultural richness of Wales, showcasing landmarks such as the Oystermouth Castle and sprinkling the narrative with captivating elements of fairy folklore. Readers gain insights into Whingey’s innocent yet profound interpretations of her environment and experiences.
The narrative incorporates an array of authentic Welsh locations and folklore, offering an enriching cultural experience for children across the globe. “Whingey Williams and her Wonderful Wellington Boots” holds a charm that captivates readers, embodying a narrative that is both amusing and enlightening.
Pages: 69 | ASIN: B0C5TZK3SV
Joy Comes: A Story of Fatherhood
Joy Comes: A Story of Fatherhood by Dedrick Moone captivates with its profound and motivating narrative. Drawing from his personal voyage of growing up without paternal guidance and now embracing fatherhood, Moone emboldens readers to discover joy amidst life’s adversities. Within these pages, we encounter Lamar, who was raised solely by his mother due to his father’s substance addiction and his reluctance to be part of his son’s life. Despite enjoying material abundance, Lamar experiences an intangible void that persists. As he matures, Lamar endeavors to reconnect with his estranged father, only to face unexpected disappointments. However, Lamar’s journey unfolds as he transitions into adulthood, marries, and becomes a father himself, promising to embody the epitome of paternal dedication.
Joy Comes: A Story of Fatherhood stands as an illuminating literary work, resonating profoundly with countless young readers navigating similar circumstances. The vivid illustrations artfully transport readers into Lamar’s world, fostering genuine empathy for his experiences. Amidst the story’s poignant moments, the author astutely interweaves a resounding positive message of hope, urging readers to maintain unwavering faith and trust. Lamar’s support system, a beacon of inspiration, garners admiration as his upbringing enables him to evolve into an exceptional father. Moone’s authentic care for his readers, who are enduring similar hardships, permeates his prose, reassuring them that solace awaits on their journey. This relatable narrative serves as an invaluable companion for young readers seeking to comprehend the complexities surrounding absent fathers, providing the much-needed guidance they seek.
I highly recommend this remarkable book to young readers yearning for answers and guidance. Moone’s prose shines as a guiding light, imbuing readers with a sense of hope and fortitude that resonates long after the final page.
Pages: 54 | ASIN: B0C9YT3H9C
LITERARY TITAN 