The Magical Science of Feelings: Train Your Amazing Brain to Quiet Anger, Soothe Sadness, Calm Worry, and Share Joy

Ages 5 to 8, Grades K to 3

Clinical social worker Jen Daily helps kids understand the science behind feelings, taking them on a lively tour of the brain to see where anger, anxiety, sadness, and joy start, and offering activities for calming emotions. 

Where do feelings come from? Are they magic? No, they're science! There is a reason our tummies feel funny when we are worried, and why we want to stomp and clench our fists when we feel mad. With endearing illustrations, the parts of the brain come alive as friendly characters who explain how emotions like happy, sad, mad, worried, and overwhelmed are created in the body. Along with clear explanations about the origins of feelings, author and clinical social worker Jen Daily provides creative coping skills and activities (playfully called emotion potions) that help build a child's ability to reflect, cope, calm anxious thoughts, and welcome greater joy. From dancing to storytelling and meditation, the coping skills are accessible and effective for a wide range of social-emotional needs and learning styles.

About the Author

Jen Daily is a licensed clinical social worker currently serving as Director of Counseling at Deerfield Academy. In her private practice, she provided psychotherapy and coaching to children, adolescents, and their grown-ups focusing on the science of emotions and the belief that empowering children with the knowledge of their bodies leads to more effective interventions and a happier child. Daily has authored numerous group therapy curricula, designed professional development trainings for educators, and is a sought-after speaker who teaches teachers about the science of emotions and effective school-based interventions. She lives in western Massachusetts.