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Trace Moroney, one of New Zealand's most successful authors has the satisfaction that sales of over 1.5 million books would give any international best selling author. But she has something even rarer and more satisfying: the knowledge that she helps millions of children around the world come to understand their often confusing, sometimes frightening, feelings.
Beautifully illustrated, with flocking and embossing on every page, the When I'm Feeling... series delights children worldwide. On that level alone, the series is a big success. But Trace Moroney writes and illustrates the books to help children aged up to five understand their emotions and feelings, and to give them a strong sense of security and self esteem.
She knows just how to do it because Trace Moroney is writing from experience.
The impetus for developing the series was born through a culmination of her experiences from childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.
'From early childhood memories right to the present day I have been very aware, and sensitive to the behaviour and responses of those around me,' she says.
'Overhearing disgruntled parents; being the target of school-yard bullies; and being subjected to abusive and controlling behaviour from profoundly-unhappy adult friends has had a deeply destructive effect on my life.
'I internalised these feelings which then inhibited my capabilities to live fully and authentically. At the same time I was afraid that I could pass on those destructive feelings.
'The arrival of my son, Matthew brought these fears to a head. I wanted to be the perfect mother, but I soon came to realise that I could not protect him from feeling hurt; disappointed; embarrassed; angry; sad; jealous; bullied; alienated - all those feelings that are part of what it means to be human.
'I could, however, help by providing Matthew with skills that gave him a realistic and secure sense of self, his feelings, and relationship with me - and a sense of belonging in this world.
'Providing security for our children, I believe, comes from being predictable and "healthy" in our own responses and behaviour. The emotional experiences we have as children will establish the emotional responses and habit that will profoundly influence the rest of our lives.'
When I'm Feeling... Series
   
   
Each of the books in this series has been carefully designed to help children better understand their feelings, and in doing so, gain greater autonomy over their lives. Talking about feelings teaches children that it is normal to feel sad, or angry, or scared at times. With greater tolerance of painful feelings, children become free to enjoy their world, to feel secure in their abilities, and to be happy.
Click on the cover images above for more information or to purchase this series.
3-D Board Books
   
With rounded edges and board pages, this series is designed especially for little hands. With easy-to-read words and a small amount of text, these books are perfect for early readers!
Click on the cover images above for more information or to purchase this series.
Visit Trace Moroney's website: www.tracemoroney.com
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