 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
The Kissing Hand
- By Audrey Penn
- Genre: Picture Book
Common Sense Media says
Huggably sweet story calms preschool fears.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that nothing objectionable is presented in this book, which is a gentle story of a mother's love for her anxious son -- and his love for her.
What's the story?
Chester, a young raccoon, is anxious about leaving his mother, his toys, and his friends on the first day of school. Lovingly, his mother shares a secret that will help him cope with his new world.
Is it any good?
This is an award-winning book that is becoming a classic for readers of all ages, especially those who are trying to face new adventures. The simple, genuinely heartwarming story is so gently told and illustrated that it's sure to become a family treasure. As is written in the foreword, THE KISSING HAND is "a story for any child who confronts a difficult situation." First days of school are certainly scary for most kids, and this book is a perfect tool for addressing their fears.
The text is simple and straightforward but kind and loving. And the richness of the vibrant watercolor illustrations deepens the beauty of the story. Amongst pleasant forest scenes, Chester looks childlike and in need of a hug, while his mother gives him the loving support he needs as the other forest animals look on.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the things that can sometimes make them feel scared and anxious, like starting something new or going someplace for the first time. They can also discuss what it means to miss someone. Did Chester and his mom feel the same way when they parted? When do you miss someone the most? Would you like to have your own secret "kissing hand"? Besides discussing feelings, readers might also want to talk about nature, especially raccoons. Why would Chester go to school at night? What other forest animals are nocturnal? What does a raccoon's paw print look like? Together parents and kids could enjoy tracing their hands and decorating them.
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
I think this is a helpful book to any parent dealing with a child facing separation anxiety. I used it with my son and it helped me and him come up with a way to make him feel better about being away from home.
Was this review useful?
|
|
| Author: | Audrey Penn |
| Illustrators: | Nancy M. Leak, Ruth E. Harper |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Picture Book |
| Publisher: | Child & Family Press |
| Publication date: | June 25, 1993 |
| Number of pages: | 32 |
| Hardcover price: | $16.95 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 4 - 7 |
Review It
Register now to save reviews and advice articles to your personal lists!
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
Already read it? What do you think?
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
