About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is navigating the transition toward independence and starting to feel that first prickle of healthy embarrassment regarding their parents. It is a whimsical solution for the 'helicopter parent' phase, using humor to address the boundary between home and school life. The story follows Cassandra, whose mother is so nostalgic for second grade that she sneaks into the classroom disguised as a potted hibiscus plant. Through this absurd premise, the book explores the tension between a parent's desire to stay close and a child's need for their own space. It is perfectly pitched for the 5 to 8 age range, offering a safe way to laugh at the 'over-involved' parent while reinforcing the secure bond between mother and daughter. Parents will find it a gentle opening to discuss school boundaries and the growing up process.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is entirely secular and lighthearted. It deals with the psychological theme of parental boundaries and childhood autonomy through a metaphorical, absurdist lens rather than a direct or heavy-handed one. The resolution is hopeful and reinforces the mother-daughter bond while establishing school as the child's domain.
