What's Bugging You?

When big feelings get tangled, a few silly bug moves might help loosen the knots.

Lee is having a not-so-good day. Their shell feels too heavy, their trail has washed away, and their favorite leaf is gone. Lee feels slow, messy, and stuck; but they aren't quite sure which feelings are bugging them.

Luckily, their friend Betsy has a web full of emotions and a playful way to help. Together, they notice Lee's body clues, name the feelings caught in the tangle, and try a series of delightfully wiggly bug moves: stretch like a spider, wiggle like a worm, buzz like a bee, and rest like a ladybug.

Not every move works for Lee, and that's okay. By experimenting, Lee discovers that difficult feelings can change. Soon, sad feels smaller, worried feels quieter, and there is room for calm and a little bit of brave. When Flicker faces a frustrating problem later that day, Lee is ready to share what they learned.

What's Bugging You? is a warm, funny picture book about emotional awareness, body cues, self-regulation, empathy, and helping a friend. Back matter includes conversation prompts, fascinating bug facts, and a step-by-step drawing activity. An engaging read-aloud for children ages 4-8 at home, in the classroom, or with a counselor.