What to Do When It's Not Fair, Revised Edition

A practical, kid-friendly workbook to help children manage envy, jealousy, and "it's not fair" feelings

Feeling jealous or thinking "it’s not fair" is a normal part of growing up, but when these emotions start to cause distress, conflict, or frustration, children may need extra support. This engaging workbook helps kids understand envy and jealousy, why these feelings show up, and how they can learn healthier ways to cope.

What to Do When It’s Not Fair is a revised and updated edition of the best-selling workbook that guides children through proven, step-by-step strategies for managing envy and comparison. Using a playful pirate and spyglass metaphor, kids learn how focusing too closely on what others have can cause them to miss the positive things in their own lives―and how to "zoom out" to see the bigger picture. Through interactive exercises, approachable illustrations, and clear guidance, children build skills to handle disappointment, jealousy, and unfair feelings with greater confidence and perspective.

A dedicated section for parents and caregivers provides additional psychological insight and practical tools for supporting children as they practice new coping strategies at home and in everyday situations.

Key features:

• For Ages 8–9: Designed for children who struggle with jealousy, envy, or frequent “it’s not fair” reactions
• Interactive Workbook Format: Hands-on activities and illustrations keep kids engaged and motivated
• Evidence-Based Approach: Introduces cognitive-behavioral techniques in a clear, child-appropriate way
• Emotion Regulation Skills: Helps children manage comparison, build gratitude, and respond more calmly to frustrating situations
• Trusted Series and Publisher: Part of the What-to-Do Guides for Kids series from Magination Press, the children’s imprint of the American Psychological Association

Claire A. B. Freeland, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, working for more than thirty-five years with youth and their families. She is interested in bringing the general principles of cognitive–behavioral therapy to families everywhere.

Jacqueline B. Toner, PhD, is the author of multiple award-winning books for kids and teens which focus on topics in psychology. Prior to her writing career, she spent thirty-five years as a clinical child and family psychologist and served as chief facilitator for a medical resources project with Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and Carnegie Mellon University.

David Thompson is a third-generation artist living in Baltimore, Maryland.