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why a book on emotions for youth
At T.aShunda N. Joiner PHD, our mission is to empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being through personalized coaching and guidance.
ABCDEmotions and Me: "Exploring Big Feelings and Growing Stronger from A to Z" Paperback
ABCD Emotions and Me! is a vibrant, empowering Emotional Intelligence book designed to teach individuals how to identify, understand, and manage their emotions especially children—one letter at a time. Written by educator and counselor Dr. Ta Shunda N. Joiner, also known as Lydia Beaute’ Robertson and Dr. Joyner "The Giggle Guru", this book introduces emotional intelligence starting with the youngest readers in a fun and engaging way using the alphabet as a guide to feelings. Through relatable language, colorful illustrations, and affirming language, each letter of the alphabet introduces a new emotion word, helping children build a strong foundation in social and emotional learning (SEL). From A is for Anxious to Z is for Zealous, children are gently guided to explore their feelings, express themselves, and develop self-awareness and coping skills—essential life tools for building resilience, empathy, and confidence.
This book serves as an entry point for:
Emotional literacy
Mindfulness for kids
Classroom and home-based SEL activities
Counseling support and behavior regulation
Parent-child discussions about mental wellness
Inspired by Dr. Joiner’s personal and professional journey—especially her work with youth and her own emotional healing following the loss of her mother—this book reflects her mission to help children of all backgrounds embrace the full spectrum of emotions. The character Lydia, a biblical figure admired by the author, symbolizes strength, healing, and the beauty of purpose through life’s challenges.
Whether used in the classroom, at home, or in therapeutic settings, ABCD Emotions and Me! is more than just a book—it’s a movement toward emotional empowerment, mental wellness, and early self-regulation skills. It encourages children to speak their truth, process big emotions, and live EmpowerMentally™—a signature phrase coined by Dr. Joiner meaning to live empowered through mental and emotional wellness.
Perfect for:
Elementary and early middle school students
School counselors and social workers
SEL-focused classrooms
Mental health and wellness libraries
Parents and caregivers seeking to build emotional vocabulary in young children