As we move through Sunday and prepare for a new week I wanted to share a new book for children based on Sesame Street. This was one of my children’s favorite shows growing up. Did your children watch it as well? As we get ready for children to go back-to-school I wanted to take a moment to remind you how important it is to read to our children.
Reading is one of those simple gifts we can give that does not cost a lot of money, but the memories it creates can last forever. I have the perfect book to share with families who have younger children who may be starting school for the first time this year. The book is part of the 1-2-3 Sesame Street series called What Does My Body Say?: Abby’s First-Day Butterflies.
Before I even share my thoughts about the story, I have to share why seeing this book brought back memories for me. I know Suzanne would have loved this book because she was a huge Sesame Street fan, especially Cookie Monster and Elmo. Growing up her favorite toy was Tickle Me Elmo. Seeing those familiar characters always brings back memories of her childhood and the joy those little moments brought.
Even Charlie grew up knowing and loving Sesame Street. My favorite character has always been Snuffleupagus. David’s favorites were the Count and the one who lives in the trash can—Oscar the Grouch. (And yes, that reminds me of David a little bit, but don’t tell him I said that. Laughing out loud.)
That is one of the wonderful things about Sesame Street. Different characters become special to different people. They become part of our childhood memories and sometimes even our family stories. But what I love about What Does My Body Say?: Abby’s First-Day Butterflies is that it goes beyond a favorite character.
This book helps children understand something we all experience: Feelings. Starting something new can be exciting, but it can also be scary. A first day of school. A new classroom. Meeting new friends. Trying something different. Even as adults, we understand those feelings. So imagine how big those emotions can feel to a young child.
Abby Cadabby experiences those first-day butterflies and learns that her body can help her understand what she is feeling. Maybe it is a tummy that feels funny. Maybe it is a nervous feeling before trying something new. Maybe it is excitement mixed with a little worry. The wonderful message of this book is that feelings are normal, and children can learn ways to handle those big emotions.
Through Abby’s story, children are introduced to ideas like Butterfly Breathing, Hug It Out, and taking a Wiggle Break. These are simple tools that parents, teachers, and caregivers can use with children every day. That is why I think this book would be a wonderful addition to preschool and kindergarten classrooms.
It gives teachers an opportunity to talk about feelings before children face those big transitions. It gives parents a chance to ask questions and open conversations. And most importantly, it reminds children that whatever they are feeling, they are not alone. I also think this book would be a wonderful addition for families who homeschool because the y can use some of the ideas in there pe classes and health classes as well.
After reading the story, you could continue the conversation by talking about emotions, watching a movie like Inside Out, and then getting up and moving together. Practice breathing. Take a wiggle break. Go outside for a walk. Sometimes children learn the best lessons when they’re moving, laughing, and spending time with the people they love.
One thing I’ve always believed is that books make wonderful gifts all year long. A book is not just something you give at Christmas or on a birthday. Books belong in our homes every day. They can be part of a summer reading basket, a back-to-school surprise, a classroom collection, or simply a way to tell a child, “I thought of you.”
I encourage families to spend 30 minutes reading together each day. If your child is old enough to read independently, encourage them to explore new stories. If they are younger, sit down together and read aloud. Those moments matter. Those are the moments children remember. For my family reading together helped David learn to read as a adult who was pushed through school.
What Does My Body Say?: Abby’s First-Day Butterflies is a sweet reminder that every feeling is important, every child deserves to be heard, and every family can create meaningful memories one book at a time.
What is your family’s favorite Sesame Street character? Did you grow up watching Sesame Street, and do you share those memories with your children or grandchildren?
About the book:
Abby has first-day-of-school jitters and learns some magical moves for navigating big feelings!
This picture book helps young readers and their adults recognize how their bodies express feelings―and how to respond with care and confidence.
From tummy flutters to tight shoulders, our bodies often speak before we do. Abby Cadabby learns to listen to her body’s clues and discovers calming techniques like Butterfly Breathing, Hug It Out, and Body Scans. She explores how to manage big feelings like nervousness and excitement―using her body as a helpful guide.
Developed with expert input from a Mayo Clinic pediatric psychologist, this warm story supports emotional literacy and body awareness in young children. With vibrant illustrations, and beloved Sesame Street characters, this book is perfect for:
- Helping children connect physical sensations with emotional experiences
- Supporting social-emotional learning at home, in classrooms, or in therapy
- Encouraging self-soothing techniques that build resilience and confidence
Whether kids feel butterflies in their tummy or just need a moment to breathe, What Does My Body Say? is a reassuring reminder that every feeling is valid―and every child can learn to listen to their body with kindness.
Everyday Feelings with Sesame Street invites children to explore feelings with the help of their favorite Sesame Street friends. Combining fun narratives with expert guidance from a Mayo Clinic pediatric psychologist, each adventure offers practical strategies to support every child’s emotional well-being.
Mayo Clinic Press Kids creates empowering health and wellness content in partnership with pediatric experts. Proceeds from the sale of every book go to benefit important medical research and education at Mayo Clinic.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on the links and make a purchase I will make a small amount from the items you purchase.
Grateful, Thankful, and Blessed
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates