Wiggles McGee: The Magic Within is a heartwarming tale about big feelings, little moments, and the quiet magic of choosing kindness—starting with yourself. Inspired by the ancient Zoroastrian wisdom of Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds, this story teaches young readers and their grown-ups that true compassion begins from within. Through playful storytelling and gentle guidance, McGee learns that being kind to others is only possible when we first speak kindly to ourselves, think compassionately of our own mistakes, and act with care from the inside out. The book also includes simple somatic exercises designed to help adults navigate high-emotional moments with more presence, regulation, and connection—offering tools that support both parent and child in building resilience, together.
Wiggles McGee: The Magic Within is a heartwarming tale about big feelings, little moments, and the quiet magic of choosing kindness—starting with yourself. Inspired by the ancient Zoroastrian wisdom of Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds, this story teaches young readers and their grown-ups that true compassion begins from within. Through playful storytelling and gentle guidance, McGee learns that being kind to others is only possible when we first speak kindly to ourselves, think compassionately of our own mistakes, and act with care from the inside out. The book also includes simple somatic exercises designed to help adults navigate high-emotional moments with more presence, regulation, and connection—offering tools that support both parent and child in building resilience, together.
Wiggles McGee- The Magic Within begins by amazing audiences with Wiggles McGee's construction talents. However, his joy quickly turned to anger when his train tracks suddenly broke apart in epic proportions. Confused. Sad. Angry. His body was overflowing with negative emotions, a feeling we all can relate to at times. He let them loose, knocking over an easel and scaring classmates. His teacher, Miss Huggleberry, didn't scold him or negate his feelings. After a few calming breaths, Miss Huggleberry was ready to share how she deals with big emotions. It's called Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds.
Good Thoughts asks readers to name something kind about themselves, replacing negative thoughts with positive ones. The point of Good Words is to spread happiness and kindness even when we are upset. When McGee focused on what he said during his angry outburst, he realized how his words scared his classmates. He learned it's never okay to take your anger out on others. In the last step, Good Deeds, Miss Huggleberry asks her student to think of a kind act he can do for others and himself.
We all experience "big" feelings and might not always handle them properly. Wiggles McGee- The Magic Within is a children's picture book, but the Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds method is not just for children. It's a universal message that we could all use a reminder to be kind to ourselves and spread kindness, even when we are upset. Caregivers might also struggle with how to handle their child(ren)'s angry outbursts. In "Bonus Tips for Grown-ups," the author emphasizes that children are not born knowing how to handle their emotions, and I agree. We must help them navigate their feelings by modeling appropriate behavior and providing them with tools to handle them. There are nine "science-backed, nervous-system supportive ways to show up for a child" when big emotions occur. I encourage all caregivers to read this section carefully because, as the writer so eloquently stated, "These small acts of presence create lasting change."
Wiggles McGee-The Magic Within is a delightful and educational picture book that will appeal to readers of all ages. While the tip page is aimed at adults, the charming illustrations are sure to captivate everyone. Personally, I was drawn to the teacher's wavy hair, which was beautifully highlighted and grew wilder with each frame. The book also offers some light-hearted moments that will bring a smile to your face. I found one scene, in particular, toot-riffic!
Join McGee on his journey to manage his emotions using Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds! My recommended reading age is 2-9 years.