“Anxiety is the most common—and most treatable—of all childhood developmental disorders. But how to help? First, we need to validate a worried child’s emotions by giving these feelings a name. Second, we need to convey optimism in the child’s ability to control their anxiety. In her warm and readable book, ‘Gary and Gibby’s Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries,’ author Tina Rafowitz does both. In it, an anxious boy and an anxious dog help each other through some commonly stressful situations. It provides just the right balance of understanding and hope. As a developmental-behavioral pediatrician, I enthusiastically recommend it.”

—Dan Shapiro, M.D., Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician, www.parentchildjourney.com

About the Book

“Gary and Gibby’s Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries” is a heartwarming children’s book that explores what to do when all you can think about are the things that make you worry. Early readers learn about managing anxiety and regulating emotions.

Gary is a kind, smart, imaginative kindergartener. He often feels worried about school and new experiences. His parents surprise him with a fluffy dog he calls Gibby, who is afraid of loud noises and being left alone. Determined to help, Gary focuses on soothing Gibby’s fears with reassuring walks, words and cuddles. As he cares for Gibby, Gary’s own worries begin to disappear, and he finds his inner strength and bravery.

“Gary and Gibby’s Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries” is an engaging story with longer sentences and language play for developing readers. It is ideal for children in grades K-2 and offers lessons about emotional resilience and coping strategies. It is perfect for bedtime reading and is a helpful tool for both parents and teachers for facilitating conversations about children’s mental and emotional health, building self-confidence, and managing feelings.

The book is available at Bookshop.org.

About the Author

Minnesota-based author Tina Rafowitz is a retired accountant and recruiter with a passion for family, travel and entertaining. After raising two kids and a shih-poo with separation anxiety, Tina found herself with an empty nest and a mind brimming with ideas. She honed her narrative voice through creative nonfiction, and developed a distinct writing flair that is unapologetically Tina.

Tina writes about everything from her neurotic dog, Gibby, to her travel adventures. Her work has been published in “Chicken Soup for the Soul: 101 Tales of Canine Companionship” and in Wanderlust Journal. She also published a cookbook called “Tina’s Table.” “Gary and Gibby’s Swirling, Twirling, Whirling Worries” is Tina’s first children’s book.

Readers can connect with Tina on Instagram (@tinacharlesrafowitz) and Facebook (@tinacharlesrafowitz).

About Publish Her

Publish Her is a female-founded independent publisher dedicated to educating authors and elevating the words, writing and stories of women. We are passionate about amplifying the voices of women of color, women with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ+ community. We aim to make publishing an attainable, exciting and collaborative process for all.