What Does My Body Say?: Abby's First-Day Butterflies

Abby has first-day-of-school jitters and learns some magical moves for navigating big feelings! 

This picture book helps young readers and their adults recognize how their bodies express feelings―and how to respond with care and confidence.

From tummy flutters to tight shoulders, our bodies often speak before we do. Abby Cadabby learns to listen to her body’s clues and discovers calming techniques like Butterfly Breathing, Hug It Out, and Body Scans. She explores how to manage big feelings like nervousness and excitement―using her body as a helpful guide.

Developed with expert input from a Mayo Clinic pediatric psychologist, this warm story supports emotional literacy and body awareness in young children. With vibrant illustrations, and beloved Sesame Street characters, this book is perfect for:

• Helping children connect physical sensations with emotional experiences
• Supporting social-emotional learning at home, in classrooms, or in therapy
• Encouraging self-soothing techniques that build resilience and confidence

Whether kids feel butterflies in their tummy or just need a moment to breathe, What Does My Body Say? is a reassuring reminder that every feeling is valid―and every child can learn to listen to their body with kindness.

Everyday Feelings with Sesame Street invites children to explore feelings with the help of their favorite Sesame Street friends. Combining fun narratives with expert guidance from a Mayo Clinic pediatric psychologist, each adventure offers practical strategies to support every child's emotional well-being.

Mayo Clinic Press Kids creates empowering health and wellness content in partnership with pediatric experts. Proceeds from the sale of every book go to benefit important medical research and education at Mayo Clinic.

Author Anna Anderhagen is a Minneapolis-based teacher, performer, and early childhood music educator with a passion for helping children thrive. Drawing from her background in theater, music, and education, she loves helping kids (and their grown-ups) explore wellness topics such as the magical mind-body connection. Through her books, music classes, and puppetry, she encourages meaningful connections and lifelong healthy habits for children.
 

Illustrator Hisashi Maeda is an illustrator and graphic designer with more than twenty years of experience. He has a bachelor of arts degree from Musashino Art University in Tokyo, Japan, and has worked with licensed brands such as Sesame Street, Peanuts, Pokémon, and more. He is from Japan and has been living in Wellington, New Zealand for 10 years. 
 

Medical expert Emily McTate, Ph.D., L.P., ABPP, is a pediatric psychologist in the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology at Mayo Clinic Children’s Center in Rochester, Minnesota. In her daily work she helps children, adolescents, young adults, and families who are managing acute and/or chronic health conditions. She partners with her patients and families to manage the stressors that are a common aspect of medical demands, supports communication with the rest of the team, and support normal development when possible. She finds it a privilege to promote the psychological well-being of children, youth, and families in healthcare settings.