Everyone Has a Dinosaur

Everyone Has a Dinosaur provides a simple yet innovative science-based explanation of emotional regulation.

This engaging story follows a central character who, like many children, struggles with intense emotions and everyday challenges. Guided by a wise forest owl, the concept of co-regulation unfolds, inviting readers to discover why they feel and respond the way they do.

The wise owl explains that emotional struggles arise because 'everyone has a dinosaur, ' a metaphor for the brain's stress-response system. Children will learn that the DINOSAUR is essential for experiencing emotions and acts as a protector for safety and well-being.

The reader is introduced to three key parts of our brain-the DINOSAUR, HEART, and OWL-that work together to influence thoughts and feelings, making the science behind emotions easy for children to understand and relate to.

This story helps children understand how their brain, body, and heart work together, teaching them to understand their emotions, identify stressors, and notice body signals when they're feeling upset or uncomfortable. Mindful breathing is presented as the key strategy for calming the HEART, thereby creating a more optimal state for the OWL to help with thinking and learning.

Everyone Has a Dinosaur offers valuable insights for both children and adults, emphasizing the important role of co-regulation in understanding and managing emotions.

Be sure to check out the supporting resource, Everyone Has a Dinosaur: Guidebook, to gain a deeper understanding of the science behind the brain-body heart connection.

Author: Linda Ness,Cherry Muir
Publisher: FriesenPress
Published: 04/29/2025
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.25lbs
Size: 8.50h x 8.50w x 0.11d
ISBN: 9781038317131
Audience: Baby-Preschool

About the Author
Ness, Linda: - ABOUT THE CREATORS

Linda Ness
Linda is an educator, learning coach, leadership mentor, and registered NeurOptimal(R) Neurofeedback trainer, specializing in the mind-body connection and peak performance. Her extensive experience and research into brain function has inspired the creation of an innovative, simple approach to help children, youth, and adults grasp the complex concept of emotional regulation. Linda enjoys reading, nature, choral singing, and homemade apple pie.

Cherry Muir
As an experienced teacher in brain-based learning, Cherry eagerly embraced her co-author's innovative model for understanding emotional regulation, applying it with children of various ages. Inspired by the positive feedback from families, Cherry combined her love for creative writing and early childhood education to co-create this compelling message for all children. Cherry enjoys music around a campfire and river walks with her dogs.

Myrna McBrien
Illustrating Everyone Has a Dinosaur has been a privilege for Myrna, who deeply believes in the value of the book's message. Her illustrative talents began in 2001 with the award-winning That Chickadee Feeling by renowned author and environmentalist, Frank Glew. After a 30-year teaching career as an elementary teacher, Myrna is now a professional actor and director, engaging in theater, illustrating, and exploring nature with her family.