My Spinning Anxious Brain by Dani Vee and Ruth-Mary Smith

Anxiety can be experienced in many different ways and at varying intensities. It affects both young and old and can be quite debilitating if early recognition and intervention strategies are not yet in place. For young children, anxiety may manifest itself in a sore tummy, a worrying brain, fidgeting or a sleepless night.

Dani Vee’s thoughtful new picture book, My Spinning Anxious Brain, gently brings together the many components of anxiety that children may experience. She begins the narrative with the young child sharing some of the worries they have – will rainbow ice cream ever run out? Will the ocean overflow?

Once their brain goes into overthinking mode, their body experiences all sorts of reactions – a racing heart, shortness of breath, a funny tummy, a feeling their brain might explode. But a trusted person may be able to help. In this case family members step in. Gran takes the child to her yoga class. Dad mediates with them. Mum journals and Rosie the cat is there for cuddles.

Being prepared prior to a situation arising is another safe option to feel ready and less likely to suffer an anxiety-driven situation. Sometimes being anxious can also help a child to be more aware of their surroundings and take more care. With support, patience and understanding a young child will learn to be better prepared when heightened situations occur.

The large, vibrant illustrations by illustrator, Ruth-Mary Smith, provide a visual layer that works in harmony with the text. The wriggling lines showing movement when the child is anxious and the colourful squiggles when the brain is overthinking and how it changes when support is being offered is skilfully executed.  They show clearly an understanding of the child’s shifting emotional state.

This book would be a valuable addition to a home, classroom, school or public library.

Themes: Anxiety, Overthinking, Empowering, Strategies, Being Calm, Courage, Resilience.

Kathryn Beilby