A picture book exploring how to feel better

Mr. Grum is grumpy all the time. Young children first meet him with his angry face: downturned eyebrows, frowning eyes and mouth in the book Mister Grum learns to chill: A story about learning coping skills when experiencing big emotions by Melissa Velandia, a psychologist with the English Montreal School Board. At first, readers do not know why Mr. Grum is so upset, so the narrator invites children to try to make him feel better – to chill! But he doesn't want to smell the flowers, swim, bake cookies or draw. The friendly narrator does not give up on Mr. Grum. Finally, readers discover things he would like to do: Read a story, take a hike with his family. He now has a happy face. Children read that even if they are having a bad day, like Mr. Grum, they can learn to do a fun or relaxing activity, and, like Mr. Grum, they will feel better. The end of the book has blank pages inviting young readers along with an adult to explore and visually express different activities that help them calm down and chill. Examples are to play with a friend, talk to an adult they trust, bake, write about their feelings, read or listen to a story or play in the park. At the end of the book, Mr. Grum thanks readers for not giving up on him, and that is the final lesson in this charming book. Do not give up on yourself, even if you are very unhappy. Ask a trusted adult to help you find ways to feel better and take control of strong emotions.