Straw

Reach for this book when you notice your child is constantly rushing through their activities, missing the joy of the process in an effort to be first or finished. Whether it is gulping down a snack or speeding through homework, this story provides a gentle mirror for the 'fast-forward' kid. Through the anthropomorphized character of Straw, children see the physical and social consequences of moving too quickly. The story celebrates mindfulness and sensory appreciation without feeling like a lecture. It is an ideal choice for preschoolers and early elementary students who are learning to navigate self-regulation and the value of patience. By the end, parents have a shared vocabulary to help their child 'drink in' the world around them rather than just racing to the bottom of the glass.