BELLYFLIES and Beyond: A Feel Good Conversation
In a recent episode of the Water Prairie Chronicles podcast, host Tonya Wollum sat down with children’s book author Cathy Gagliardi to discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in children, particularly those with neurodiversity.
Gagliardi, the creator of the popular children’s book “BELLYFLIES,” has developed a unique method to help children identify and express their emotions and learn to feel good again. The “BELLYFLIES Method” is an acronym that stands for:
- B: BELLYFLIES (a metaphor for anxiety or nervousness)
- E: Engage Emotions
- L: Listen
- L: Love
- Y: Yes, and
- F: Focus
- L: Lead
- I: Imagination
- E: Encourage
- S: Sensitive
By using this method, parents can help their children understand and manage their feelings, leading to improved communication and emotional well-being.
Gagliardi’s books, including “BELLYFLIES” and “Gonna Build a Boat,” not only entertain but also educate children about important social-emotional skills like empathy, inclusion, and self-awareness. Her work has been praised for its ability to resonate with children of all ages and abilities.
In the podcast interview, Gagliardi shared her personal experiences and insights into the challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent children. She emphasized the importance of creating a supportive and understanding environment where children feel good and safe to express themselves.
To learn more about Cathy Gagliardi and her work, you can visit her website or purchase her books on Amazon.
🌟View the BELLYFLIES book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ZkPZCU
🌟Sign up for a free Prime account: https://amzn.to/3YJdKDN
** As an Amazon Associate, I may earn on qualifying purchases. **
Listen to the full interview with Cathy:
🎥YouTube: https://youtu.be/tEhATLGEDnU
💻Website: https://waterprairie.com/2024/09/16/help-your-child-talk-about-emotions/
🎧Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep108-how-to-help-your-child-understand-emotions/id1606642962?i=1000669651019
