Tomás Returns To School by Xiomara Gallego-Bernard
ISBN: 979-8988691105
Tomás Regresa a la Escuela by Xiomara Gallego-Bernard
ISBN: 979-8988691136
Published by The Inspired Fit Mama LLC
This beautiful picture book of 35 pages comes with a note to sensitive children everywhere:
“Being different is what makes you amazing. Never be afraid to share your superpower with
the world!”
Parents and teachers can use this valuable resource to learn how to be the support systems
highly sensitive children need and teach them how to manage their emotions. There are
questions to ask children after reading the story as well as strategies to help them manage
big feelings. I found the notes and tips for caregivers very insightful.
Tomás enjoys an adventurous, fun and event-filled summer vacation. He especially enjoys
the art classes where he can use color to express his feelings when he struggles to find the
right words. The thought of going back to school saddens him. He finds school boring and
rather wants to spend time with Mamá. She warns him that things will be different. He will
move on to a new grade level, teacher and perhaps have new classmates.
Feeling scared and anxious, Tomás has a lot of what if-questions. Mamá assures him that it
is normal to feel apprehensive and that he is capable of handling everything. She teaches
him breathing techniques to help calm him down when he feels overwhelmed and reminds
him that his teacher will be there for him.
Finally realizing he can help others in need, motivates Tomás to walk into first grade
confidently, saying, “I got this!” And lo and behold, his day goes smoothly. He even helps a
crying boy and makes a new friend.
I love this inspiring story that empowers both parents and children on how to be brave when
facing new situations and recommend it heartily. The illustrations and cover design by Irina
Chasov completes the text fittingly.
Tomás Returns to School is also available in Spanish, Tomás Regresa a la Escuela.
Reviewed by Louise Viljoen
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