The Drama Llama: A story about soothing anxiety
What’s inside...
Alex Allen, like many children, sometimes worries about things like dancing poorly or making mistakes in class. However, every time Alex worries, a real-life llama materializes, growing larger with each concern. As the llama's size increases, it causes more trouble for Alex. The story follows Alex's journey as he learns to manage his worries and attempts to rid himself of the troublesome llama. This humorous yet touching rhyming tale by Rachel Morrisroe, with illustrations by Ella Okstad, provides practical advice on handling worries through the fun and chaotic adventures of Alex and his llama.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Alex
The Drama Llama
Discussion points
How did the Drama Llama feel when things didn't go as planned? Can you tell me about a time you felt the same?
What are some ways that the Drama Llama learned to calm down? Which one do you think could work for you?
Why is it important to talk about our feelings, like the Drama Llama did?
How did the friends help the Drama Llama feel better? What can we do when we see someone feeling anxious or upset?
Tip: Role play these questions
Set a calm and welcoming tone before starting the conversation to make your child feel comfortable discussing their feelings.
Validate your child's emotions by sharing your own experiences related to anxiety or stress, like the situations faced by the Drama Llama.
Encourage your child to think of their own solutions for anxiety by asking them how they would help the Drama Llama in tough situations.
Revisit the story's calming techniques regularly to reinforce the methods the Drama Llama uses to manage anxiety.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and managing emotions
Explanation: The main character learns to identify and articulate emotions that stem from anxiety, using strategies to calm down when feeling overwhelmed.
Real-World Application: Children can use similar techniques to deal with their own feelings of anxiety or nervousness, helping them gain emotional regulation skills.
Example Lesson: Empathy and support
Explanation: The story shows how friends and family support the main character when they're feeling anxious, demonstrating the value of a supportive network.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being there for others during tough times, fostering a sense of empathy and community.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist faces challenges due to anxiety but learns to overcome them with various coping mechanisms.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that while challenges are part of life, they are capable of overcoming them with the right tools and mindset.
Example Lesson: Communication
Explanation: The main character learns to communicate their feelings effectively to others, a key step in managing situations causing anxiety.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to express themselves and seek help when needed, crucial skills in both academic and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Self-awareness
Explanation: The protagonist's journey includes moments of self-reflection, helping them understand their triggers and reactions better.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize their own feelings and triggers, leading to better self-awareness and proactive management of their emotions.