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Forest Bath
What if bathtime meant skipping the tub and slipping into the woods instead? What if scrubbing your back meant scratching an itch with a tree branch, and getting behind your ears meant finding your favorite flower to tuck in your hair?
In this clever story, a child turns the idea of bathtime upside down by exploring the neighborhood park with her mother, practicing the Japanese concept of forest bathing. Join them as they inspect mushrooms, squish spongy moss, splash in puddles, and more, all playfully described with familiar bathtime words. Gorgeous illustrations capture the richness and calm the woods supply.
By slowing down, focusing on their senses, and noticing the environment around them, kids can learn how to practice mindfulness and to appreciate the value of the natural world just outside their door—wherever they are!
Includes a Reader’s Note with more information on forest bathing as well as ideas and activities.
In this clever story, a child turns the idea of bathtime upside down by exploring the neighborhood park with her mother, practicing the Japanese concept of forest bathing. Join them as they inspect mushrooms, squish spongy moss, splash in puddles, and more, all playfully described with familiar bathtime words. Gorgeous illustrations capture the richness and calm the woods supply.
By slowing down, focusing on their senses, and noticing the environment around them, kids can learn how to practice mindfulness and to appreciate the value of the natural world just outside their door—wherever they are!
Includes a Reader’s Note with more information on forest bathing as well as ideas and activities.
- GenresNaturePicture Books
32 pages, Hardcover
Published October 7, 2025
9 people want to read
About the author
Jen Barton
8 books14 followersI grew up in Pennsylvania and spent most of my life in the East. In 2007 my family and I moved to California. With two cars my husband and I moved two dogs, two guinea pigs, a cornsnake, and our 10-year-old daughter across the country (whew!). The five-day road trip (including a near escape by both dogs on Day 3) was one of my best (and most interesting) experiences ever. In fact, I'm not sure why that isn't a book yet...
A few years later, after an especially boring day in the car (where the kids and I told stories and built characters instead of griping), I found writing again. Fiona Thorn was born on that day, and I’ve been writing ever since. :)
A few years later, after an especially boring day in the car (where the kids and I told stories and built characters instead of griping), I found writing again. Fiona Thorn was born on that day, and I’ve been writing ever since. :)
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 27, 2025
Forest bath is lovely! The art uses both light and perspective in unique ways and story is a great appreciation of the outdoors! Thanks NetGalley for the eARC
October 15, 2025
Forest Bath is a gentle and imaginative journey that blends the simple joy of bath time with the soothing wonder of nature.
When Mom says it’s time for a bath, a young child dives into bubbles, warmth, and play — scrubbing, splashing, and soaking in the cozy comfort of the tub. But there’s more to this “bath” than meets the eye. Through its calm rhythm and sensory details, the story invites children (and grown-ups) to imagine what it might feel like to bathe not just in water, but in the sights, sounds, and textures of the natural world.
Follow along as the story transitions from bath-time fun to a thoughtful exploration of forest bathing — the art of slowing down, noticing the world around you, and finding peace in the present moment. The book’s lyrical simplicity pairs beautifully with its educational back section, which introduces families to mindfulness, nature exploration, and simple outdoor activities that encourage calm and curiosity.
Forest Bath is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book that transforms something as familiar as bath time into a poetic lesson on mindfulness and nature appreciation. Jen Barton’s simple, rhythmic text captures a child’s playful imagination, while Felishia Henditirto’s soft, inviting illustrations make every page feel warm and peaceful.
The “Reader’s Note” and “Ideas & Activities” section are wonderful additions, offering practical, easy ways for families to explore nature together and encourage mindfulness in everyday life. Teachers, parents, and caregivers will love how it naturally blends science, emotion, and self-awareness in a way children can understand.
Perfect for bedtime or classroom reading, Forest Bath helps children connect the comfort of daily rituals to the healing magic of nature — reminding us that mindfulness can be as close as our own backyard.
When Mom says it’s time for a bath, a young child dives into bubbles, warmth, and play — scrubbing, splashing, and soaking in the cozy comfort of the tub. But there’s more to this “bath” than meets the eye. Through its calm rhythm and sensory details, the story invites children (and grown-ups) to imagine what it might feel like to bathe not just in water, but in the sights, sounds, and textures of the natural world.
Follow along as the story transitions from bath-time fun to a thoughtful exploration of forest bathing — the art of slowing down, noticing the world around you, and finding peace in the present moment. The book’s lyrical simplicity pairs beautifully with its educational back section, which introduces families to mindfulness, nature exploration, and simple outdoor activities that encourage calm and curiosity.
Forest Bath is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book that transforms something as familiar as bath time into a poetic lesson on mindfulness and nature appreciation. Jen Barton’s simple, rhythmic text captures a child’s playful imagination, while Felishia Henditirto’s soft, inviting illustrations make every page feel warm and peaceful.
The “Reader’s Note” and “Ideas & Activities” section are wonderful additions, offering practical, easy ways for families to explore nature together and encourage mindfulness in everyday life. Teachers, parents, and caregivers will love how it naturally blends science, emotion, and self-awareness in a way children can understand.
Perfect for bedtime or classroom reading, Forest Bath helps children connect the comfort of daily rituals to the healing magic of nature — reminding us that mindfulness can be as close as our own backyard.
July 16, 2025
After reading this charming book, I want a forest bath right now!
I live in the mountains and spend hours outside each week, which perhaps means that I am not the target audience for this book. Perhaps I am though--I also benefit from a reminder to slow down and luxuriate in the sensory experiences of really being present in the natural world. Too often, I walk quickly through my surroundings. Dawdling a bit, climbing, touching, smelling, stroking moss or staring at the details of a plant, squishing mud through my fingers--these are all ways to be beautifully present and in the moment.
Forest Bath vividly demonstrates that action. I love it that there's no worry here about whether the child is allowed to get dirty, no cautions against mud, climbing and critters--just a reminder in the backmatter not to eat unknown plants and fungi and to check for ticks afterwards.
Being in the moment is healing and nourishing to our mental health. We need nature to nurture our brains and our bodies.
I'm not at all surprised to note that this refreshing picture book is published by the American Psychological Association. Good choice, APA. I hope lots of families will read it and go outside together!
I live in the mountains and spend hours outside each week, which perhaps means that I am not the target audience for this book. Perhaps I am though--I also benefit from a reminder to slow down and luxuriate in the sensory experiences of really being present in the natural world. Too often, I walk quickly through my surroundings. Dawdling a bit, climbing, touching, smelling, stroking moss or staring at the details of a plant, squishing mud through my fingers--these are all ways to be beautifully present and in the moment.
Forest Bath vividly demonstrates that action. I love it that there's no worry here about whether the child is allowed to get dirty, no cautions against mud, climbing and critters--just a reminder in the backmatter not to eat unknown plants and fungi and to check for ticks afterwards.
Being in the moment is healing and nourishing to our mental health. We need nature to nurture our brains and our bodies.
I'm not at all surprised to note that this refreshing picture book is published by the American Psychological Association. Good choice, APA. I hope lots of families will read it and go outside together!
October 7, 2025
“Forest Bath” is a wondrous exploration of the natural world. In the book, a young child and her mother go for a walk in the forest that delights the senses. The illustrations are charming while the text evokes a water-based bath as the child gets dirtier and dirtier. Once relaxed from their forest bath, the pair heads home satisfied with their adventure.
The Reader’s Note at the back of the book has information for adults on forest bathing and the need for humans to be in nature. There are ideas for activities and a bibliography. Safety tips are included (e.g. check yourself for ticks, don’t put stuff in your mouth).
Magination Press books from the American Psychological Association are always a winner as they combine thoughtful storytelling with practical ideas for improving mental and physical health.
This book is great for young children, particularly those who may not have much experience in natural settings beyond a local manicured park.
I received an advance review copy for free from Netgalley and Magination Press, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Reader’s Note at the back of the book has information for adults on forest bathing and the need for humans to be in nature. There are ideas for activities and a bibliography. Safety tips are included (e.g. check yourself for ticks, don’t put stuff in your mouth).
Magination Press books from the American Psychological Association are always a winner as they combine thoughtful storytelling with practical ideas for improving mental and physical health.
This book is great for young children, particularly those who may not have much experience in natural settings beyond a local manicured park.
I received an advance review copy for free from Netgalley and Magination Press, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 21, 2025
What a fun read! Mum follows along as Little One explores all there is to see and feel in the woods and the clearing. Afterward there is a half-page of cautions and another of ideas and activities for parents.
The illustrations by Felishia Henditirto are imaginative and FUN about safely exploring nature using bright colors.
Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age, including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school, waiting room, or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital Galley on Thorium PDF from Magination Press — American Psychological Association via NetGalley. Pub Date OCT 07, 2025 @apa_org
@maginationpress @americanpsychologicalassoc @childrensbookcouncil @goodreads #nature #picturebookart #kidlit #picturebook #illustration #childrensbooks #imagination #sensoryinput
#ForestBath by @jen_barton_author and illustrated by Felishia Henditirto @feelish_arts
The illustrations by Felishia Henditirto are imaginative and FUN about safely exploring nature using bright colors.
Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age, including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school, waiting room, or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital Galley on Thorium PDF from Magination Press — American Psychological Association via NetGalley. Pub Date OCT 07, 2025 @apa_org
@maginationpress @americanpsychologicalassoc @childrensbookcouncil @goodreads #nature #picturebookart #kidlit #picturebook #illustration #childrensbooks #imagination #sensoryinput
#ForestBath by @jen_barton_author and illustrated by Felishia Henditirto @feelish_arts
February 21, 2025
Forest Bath by Jen Barton is an absolute delight! This cute and quick read is perfect for parents looking to inspire their little ones to explore and appreciate the outdoors. The book beautifully encourages a sense of wonder for nature, and I love that it includes fun activities at the end to make outdoor adventures even more engaging. Teaching kids gratitude for the world around them from a young age is so important, and this book does a fantastic job of fostering that mindset.
As someone who will soon be an aunt, I already know this will be a perfect gift for my sister-in-law and future niece or nephew! Highly recommend this for any parent, teacher, or caregiver looking to nurture a love for nature in young children.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review this book before its release!
As someone who will soon be an aunt, I already know this will be a perfect gift for my sister-in-law and future niece or nephew! Highly recommend this for any parent, teacher, or caregiver looking to nurture a love for nature in young children.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review this book before its release!
March 5, 2025
An adorably fun and immersive story of a young child who takes a 'forest bath.' Squishing the moss between their toes, patting their face with mud, smelling the flowers -- what could be better?
I really love this book and I love the concept of forest bathing. I particularly appreciate how the author shows how wild, carefree, and peaceful such a practice can be, while also taking time to highlight the practical side in their author's note (like making sure to not ingest random plants and checking yourself for ticks when you're done.) Definitely a must have for any nature loving kiddos!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really love this book and I love the concept of forest bathing. I particularly appreciate how the author shows how wild, carefree, and peaceful such a practice can be, while also taking time to highlight the practical side in their author's note (like making sure to not ingest random plants and checking yourself for ticks when you're done.) Definitely a must have for any nature loving kiddos!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2025
I love the concept of this book! Just getting kids outside and exploring nature. I love how the main character takes a "bath" in nature and has so much fun exploring. Then gets an actual bath at the end. The illustrations are enchanting, colorful, and fun! I think they really pull the reader in and helps children visualize how to "take a bath" in nature. I think this is a wonderful book for any child and would highly recommend!
Thank you Jen Barton and Magination Press — American Psychological Association for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book via NetGalley! This review was written voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
Thank you Jen Barton and Magination Press — American Psychological Association for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book via NetGalley! This review was written voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
April 18, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Magination Press for an advanced copy in exchange for mine, and my son's, reviews.
Gorgeous artwork paired with lovely, yet simple, storytelling! This children's book takes you on a brief journey through the forest as a little girl explores all different sensory inputs from nature. My 5 year old loves nature books and giggled at the imagery of "washing" different parts of her body with dirt or leaves. However, the abstract nature of forest bathing went over his head and I had to explain several times what that meant.
Gorgeous artwork paired with lovely, yet simple, storytelling! This children's book takes you on a brief journey through the forest as a little girl explores all different sensory inputs from nature. My 5 year old loves nature books and giggled at the imagery of "washing" different parts of her body with dirt or leaves. However, the abstract nature of forest bathing went over his head and I had to explain several times what that meant.
February 23, 2025
A beautifully illustrated book—charming, even magical. It’s not just a walk in the woods but a real adventure through a child’s eyes, noticing all the little details that make nature so special.
However, I struggled to find a deeper story. Is it simply about how fun and healthy a nature walk can be? It felt like something was missing, like it needed a bit more to make the experience truly memorable. Still, visually, it’s a delight.
NetGalley ARC for the honest review.
However, I struggled to find a deeper story. Is it simply about how fun and healthy a nature walk can be? It felt like something was missing, like it needed a bit more to make the experience truly memorable. Still, visually, it’s a delight.
NetGalley ARC for the honest review.
June 24, 2025
It’s bath time! A time to refresh and reset. This book follows a kid as they thoroughly ‘bathe’ themself in nature: in their toes, wash their face, between fingers! This thorough reconnect to nature brings the kid, and the reader, back to themself and ready to face the rest. There is a helpful guide on forest bathing at the end with ways you and your kid can join: feeling the breeze, listening for birds, etc. Great book!
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February 20, 2025I couldn't decide if it was pitting dirty against clean in its attempt to relate the two, no clue what kids would think. I was too caught up in that to even be able to give a numerical rating. Am I losing it?
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC for this provided by the publisher, APA & NetGalley.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC for this provided by the publisher, APA & NetGalley.
December 31, 2025
Wonderful informative children’s picture book that describes what “forest bathing” is and why its important to mental health to get out and see, feel (touch) and hear nature. Being still in nature is important but movement and immersion in all things natural is such a reset for children and adults. At the end it gives some suggested activities for children to experience nature more fully.
February 27, 2025
Netgalley ARC - this is definitely a cute concept though I would discourage children from interacting with skunks for sure.
January 9, 2026
Such a cute combination of imagination and wilderness exploration. I want to take a forest bath now!
December 29, 2025
This is a cute story about a little girl who uses the forest to bathe her.
My rating of 3 stars is because I found the book to be super short and just kind of abruptly ends in an unnatural way.
Otherwise this is a cute story with good potential of being a great story to read with your kids.
My rating of 3 stars is because I found the book to be super short and just kind of abruptly ends in an unnatural way.
Otherwise this is a cute story with good potential of being a great story to read with your kids.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews