The 'Sometimes I feel...' book was created because I couldn't find a book that helped children learn about different kinds of emotions and how to express them, that was also multi-ethnic and culturally appropriate worldwide. I wanted to create a resource for educators, counsellors and parents to use with their children. The book is excellent for discussion and exploration of what feelings and emotions are and can be used as a tool for checking in and being a tangible object for children to take to their adult to express how they are feeling. 'Sometimes I Feel...' is bright, colourful and will engage your children. There is also a user guide on the first page, to assist you in getting the most out of the book.
I am an experienced Occupational Therapist with professional expertise in helping children who have faced Trauma. As an artist and freelance book illustrator, I make use of Art Therapy in my work. I work extensively in training and informing, health professionals, teachers and parents.
Please note: This edition of the book does not have an accompanying set of flashcards.
Testimonials
Maiski, principal and teacher at a preschool: "Many times we have needs that we are not aware of, and we only realise it when the salesperson approaches us. The first time I was shown this book I felt the need for it, it expresses emotions we never think of, and because of it I did introspection and realised I only expose children to four emotions when there is so much. It helped my children with vocabulary improvement and understanding and expressing their emotions. Sometimes I feel it is a must have also for adults to pause and identify how they feel."
Dani Shekel, a parent: "I've been reading Sarah's book to my kids for the past few weeks, especially on days when I think something is bothering them and ultimately, they start talking about it. The book allows me to engage with my three children in different ways according to their age. It enables me to find out what makes them happy, sad or any other emotion in a non-intrusive environment and opens the lines of communication so they are free to reveal more."
Linda Mthethwa, teacher and Grade R teacher trainer: " 'Sometimes I feel...' has been an amazing tool for me to train with and also to use with my own child (who is 9 years old). The children are drawn to it because of its bright colours and they are interested in what it is about. It gives the reader words to describe their feelings. It has no age restriction, anyone can use it as we all have feelings to express."
Sarie Nel, a social worker: "I have used mine already in helping a child deal with a sexual abuse matter and it was so amazing using the book during the exploration of their feelings."
Mairi, a teacher trainer: "A powerful tool for starting to develop a language around emotions for young children, lovely colours and simple, dramatic drawings to visualise this conversation."
Esther Rubin, play therapist and speech and language therapist: "I love the 'Sometimes I feel...' book. I've used them a lot in my play therapy with kids. I think they are beautifully illustrated and the kids relate to them. They are colourful and relevant to all which makes this book special. It helps children with their language and vocabulary. Everyone I've shown them too loves them and they are a very good tool to help children express those emotions. I highly recommend them."
Nadene Grabham - Door of Hope, babies home: "Our kids sometimes now go fetch 'Sometimes I feel...' without us having to ask them how they feel. They tell us before we ask!"