Millions of young children live in families with an adult who is struggling due to trauma (ACEs), mental illness (PTSD, depression, bipolar), or addiction. Mama's Waves and Daddy's Waves were written to support them and open doors to healing conversations.

While the book was written specifically for children whose parents struggle with emotional waves, other children may be helped by Ellie's story to empathically understand the challenges that too many families are facing.

"She's not coming," sighed Ellie.

Ellie's mom did not come for their visit, and Ellie is stuck in a cloud of sadness and anger as she tries to understand why. Fortunately, Miss K. and Ellie's Uncle Finny are there to help her. Using the metaphor of a wave, they help Ellie talk about and understand her mother's ups and downs, recognize and hold on to loving memories, and know that she is not alone.

Praise for Mama's Waves

and Daddy's Waves

When parents and other important caregivers face challenges related to mental illness or addiction, children need the help of grown-ups within and outside their families . . .

To have language for the challenges that their parents face
To know that they can talk about tough times and good times
To better understand why their parent may not be around
To keep good memories alive because these memories shape their view of themselves as worthy of love

Mama's Waves shows us that these conversations are possible, important, and support healing and connection.

A Look Inside

Please feel free to use these images for book reviews and promotional purposes.

Ellie reminds us how hard it is for children where their grown-ups have challenges.

They need support sharing both good memories and hard ones.

Finny's wave metaphor helps Ellie to understand her parent's ups and downs.

Remembering loving moments reminds Ellie that she is loveable.

Like Ellie, other children need the help of grown-ups to share and make meaning of their memories.

And, to know that they have grown-ups who love and care for them.

Resources

Free Video Version: Mama's Waves

Listen to the story as read by the author. You may share this version in trainings, provided you follow the Use Guidelines.

Use Guidelines

Free Video Version: Daddy's Waves

Listen to the story as read by the author. You may share this version in trainings, provided you follow the Use Guidelines.

Use Guidelines

Reader Suggested Activity

Vasilia Graboski shares a beautiful art activity where children and their caregivers draw waves in a heart and then share the highs and lows.

Learn More

Read Full Reviews

Some of the Organizations Recommending Our Book