Friendship is Like a Seesaw

Barron's "A Big Hug" series offers a gentle and direct approach to the emotional issues that children face. Written by a clinical child psychologist, these books encourage youngsters to share and discuss tough topics with family and friends.

"Friendship is Like A Seesaw" compares friendship to the classic playground ride--there are ups and downs, but in the end it's all about balance."Friendship is like a seesaw.
Sometimes you might feel up in the air
when your friend feels low.
Other times you might feel down,
when your friend is up.
When things are balanced, both friends are happy."

Endearing illustrations and gentle text explore friends at their best--sharing, laughing, and playing together--as well as friends who sometimes say hurtful things, leave others out, or get a bit bossy. The authors go on to discuss what we can do to rebalance and fix our friendships, like talking about our feelings, looking at our own friendship skills, or taking a break. A timeless lesson that older children and even adults can appreciate.

Shonna Innes is a qualified clinical and forensic psychologist with many years of experience assisting children in times of trouble.

Irisz Agocs has been delighting both children and adults for years with her endearingly whimsical watercolor illustrations, which can be found in books, advertising, animation, and more.