Press Reviews

• Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D., New York Times Bestselling co-author of The Whole-Brain Child & No-Drama Discipline, and The Way of Play

  Through its engaging story, Bravery Grows not only helps young readers, it provides a valuable resource for parents. Through modeling co-regulation, and the validation of a child's feelings and experiences, parents of children who deal with anxiety will be empowered to help their child build skills and build the kind of relationship with them that fosters resilience.

• Steven MS Kurtz, Ph.D., ABPP Clinical Psychologist, Might Mouths & Brave Buddies Selective Mutism Programs Founder

  Bravo to Dr Giglio and Ms Geddes for capturing the roller coaster of emotions that defines the journey of living with a child anxiety problem, such as selective mutism, and working hard to overcome it. In a truly child-friendly fashion, they educate and inspire children and parents alike. Yes, it's a terrible frustrating dilemma to be stuck in. And yes, while a child may not have their brave muscles developed YET, they can, with a good coach, good brave talking practice techniques and lots of encouragement, work to see their home and outside worlds come together as one unified voice. I can't wait to read this with my patients and in our camps.

• Rachel Busman, Psy.D., ABPP - Founder, Voices Rising and Past-President of Selective Mutism Association

  Bravery Grows is a book that all therapists and caregivers should have on their shelves. Kids working on "brave talking" will love reading about how to practice and grow their brave muscles.

• Lauren Seaberg, M.S., International School Counselor

  Bravery Grows shares the journey of a child with Selective Mutism. We learn that growing brave muscles takes one small step at a time. Children that feel similar can easily identify with the emotions described throughout the story as confidence comes and goes. Adults will also find this book helpful as they navigate how to support children who are growing their bravery. As a school counselor and mother, I highly recommend adding this beautiful story to your bookshelf.

• Dr Jacqueline Wolf, Psy.D., International School Psychologist

  Dr Melissa Giglio is Hong Kong's leading expert on anxiety in children and selective mutism. This book brings the skills and knowledge taught in the successful Confident Crew program to life in a beautiful story. Bravery Grows is an invaluable resource for both parents and educators who are supporting children with anxiety.

• Lauren Jordan, M.A., International School Early Childhood Educator

  In my classroom, I use children's books as a meaningful and powerful tool for delivering academic content and exploring topics connected to social and emotional development. Bravery Grows, is delivered in a relatable way with endless opportunities for discussion about the characters feelings, actions, and bravery. This book addresses important topics in ways that left me saying, "I know so many children who will benefit from this book," "We need more books like this," and "Where has this book been?"

• a selective mutism expert from the Child Mind Institute

  This sweet, rhymed story is about a little girl who is lively and boisterous at home but freezes up and can't speak when she's at the playground or at school. Her parents encourage her to try "brave talking" and she practices until her confidence swells and her words flow. It introduces facing fears by taking small steps and illustrates how it takes practice to build brave muscles. Ages 4-8.