Most of my adult life I was an educator whether I was teaching my own kids or running a classroom of students. I have worked with children in a crisis nursery, volunteered at many schools, and I am a devoted Nana to six grandchildren. One of my greatest joys in recent years has been helping a family with sextuplets navigate life with six children under the age of 5.  The sextuplets call me Grandma Judy!

We all have challenges that require us to find our courage and be brave. Children are called to be brave as they go to school, get immunizations, see the dentist for check ups, visit a new play group, or leave Mom. Older kids must be brave as they learn to ride a bike or play a team sport.  Learning how to be brave when you are young gives a child the tools to handle those challenges that come as we age.  Fear is such a big feeling.  Most of us will acknowledge that fear is always present in our lives.  My girls and I talk about “putting our big girl panties on” for those occasions when you really have to push through and do something difficult. Knowing how to ask for help becomes more important as each year passes.  Brave Bird models asking for help as she approaches each of her friends about her fear of flying. She  has to get past her fear to succeed. In the process Brave Bird discovers that the magic of being brave is realizing that the courage lies within you. I hope this book sparks your inner Brave Bird. If you want to share your story, write me at youarebravebird@gmail.com