I Am a Courageous Cub

by Shoshana Chaim, Lori Joy Smith (illustrator)

For kids ages 3-7, this second book in the “I Am Mindful” series is a fun and playful introduction to finding confidence and courage. The follow up to I Am a Peaceful Goldfish!

When we are feeling scared or discouraged, moving our bodies—and a bit of imagination—can foster confidence and courage. In this simple yet powerful story, two children discover how to feel calm and courageous by striking poses, pretending they are courageous cubs, mighty mountains, speedy, sure dragonflies, and even shooting stars!

From former kindergarten and physical education teacher Shoshana Chaim, this second book in the “I Am Mindful” series
Engaging techniques that build bravery and self-confidenceA reminder that it’s okay to feel nervous!I Am a Courageous Cub teaches kids how to be mindful, giving them control over their minds and bodies—an essential, easy-to-learn life skill.

Book #2 in the I Am Mindful series! This series on mindfulness for young children introduces playful and imaginative techniques designed for the entire family to navigate overwhelming emotions with ease and confidence. The simplicity of the stories and relatable characters allow children of all ages to connect with the everyday challenges they face. By consistently practicing the mindfulness methods depicted in these books, children can cultivate skills that are readily applicable in various real-life situations. These abilities serve as a sturdy foundation for resilience throughout their lives.

Genres: Picture Books, Storytime, Childrens

49 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 3, 2024

Reviews

[Katherine Roesler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taps into visualization for kids, love it

[Stephanie Tournas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A little kid looks at a tall slide at the playground and feels scared to try it: “I wish I felt brave inside,” she tells the reader. She wraps her arms around herself and feels calmer and braver, “like a lion cub.” Her friend has the idea to try another pose, hands on the ground with one leg back. It helps him feel like he can go anywhere. The kids trade ideas for helping themselves feel confident. Finally, they go down the slide.

This is a book about finding your inner resilience to try hard things, starting on the playground. I like that the yoga-like self soothing techniques that the kids try would be easy for most everyone, and that the kids are helping each other. Kids will enjoy acting like a lion cub, a fast train, an old oak tree, a bouncing ball, and other familiar things. It’s an acknowledgement that everyone has moments when they need to find a way to build confidence. The brightly colored naive style art is sweet and should appeal to the littlest kids. There appears to be wide assortment of races among the kids at the playground. This book is part of the I Am Mindful series by the same author.

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Age: Preschool-Kindergarten
Sport: Yoga

This book is perfect in every way. Inviting kids to participate? Check. Promoting a positive self-esteem trait? Check. Simple illustrations with solid color backgrounds? Check. Connecting your body with how you feel? Check!

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good concept. Something is missing for me, though I’m not sure what.

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Could be good for a feelings or yoga storytime. Fun poses to do with kids and simple text.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great for story time especially if your crowd is wiggly, lots of encouraged body movement into easy yoga positions. I'd pair it with another movement book.