Ellen Flanagan Burns is a school psychologist and the author of Nobody’s Perfect: A Story for Children About Perfectionism and Ten Turtles on Tuesday; A Story for Children About Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
She devotes her writing to helping children overcome anxiety. She believes that children’s books can be a powerful therapeutic tool and supports cognitive-based interventions for children with anxiety-related issues.
The Tallest Bridge in the World: A Story for Children About Social Anxiety
Are they staring at me because I look silly? What if I mess up in my presentation — will everyone laugh at me? What if I fail at swim tryouts? I'll be so embarrassed! Thomas has always been a bit shy, but recently his nervousness has been getting in the way of the things he would like to do. He realizes it may be time to talk to someone. With the help of his parents and a therapist, Thomas learns how social anxiety affects his brain, and everyday tools and strategies to cope with and combat it. Includes a Dear Reader and a Note to Parents with more information on social anxiety in preteens, and the cognitive-behavioral strategies you can use to cope with it. (picture book, ages 8-12)
You Can’t Please Everyone!
Ellie feels like she is disappointing people if she says “no.” One way or another, she thinks she is hurting someone’s feelings. Or she puts other people’s wants or needs in front of her own. With help from her parents and her teacher, Ellie finds the strength to be honest with people and do the right thing for herself by learning how to say “no.” This is a hopeful, helpful story for kids who need reassurance that they can be nice to others and be true to themselves.