Book Amplifier Tour with Guest Post for Katie's Really Bad Day by Kathleen Jeffrey

 

Guest Post from Kathleen Jeffery

My inspiration for writing this book…

I was an anxious child in school. Eventually this anxiety developed into test anxiety that stayed with me through college. It didn’t matter if I knew the answers, the panic still set in!

Many children experience anxiety in school for various reasons. In researching for this book, it was wonderful to learn of the many resources and tools available today for teachers to help their anxious students. Some students are very good at concealing their test anxiety feelings and may suffer needlessly while also thinking they are the only ones. In addition, test anxiety can lead to a pattern of underachievement.

I hope Katie’s story will help children identify their own anxious feelings, know that they are not alone and encourage them to tell their teachers and caregivers what is going on before their anxiety leads to “A Really Bad Day!”

For some children, anxiety appears suddenly, even in familiar places. In Katie’s Really Bad Day: A Story About Test Anxiety by Kathleen Jeffrey, illustrated by Susan Kilmartin, one school activity triggers overwhelming emotions and reveals how guidance and patience can help a child regain balance.

Katie enjoys learning and usually approaches her day with enthusiasm, but test days make her uneasy. When a spelling test begins, her anxious thoughts and physical sensations escalate quickly, leaving her unable to focus or write. Her reaction disrupts the room and leaves her feeling embarrassed and confused about her behavior.

With reassurance from her teacher, Katie begins to talk about what she experienced and why it felt so overwhelming. She is introduced to calming tools designed to help her regulate her breathing and slow her racing thoughts. Through practice, Katie starts to recognize her anxiety and understand that it does not mean she is incapable. The story gently shows how emotional awareness and practical strategies can help children regain confidence, while normalizing the idea that many students feel nervous before tests.

Amazon: https://bit.ly/4qDMemF

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210447560-katie-s-really-bad-day

Meet the Author: Kathleen Jeffrey is an author of children’s picture books, fulfilling her mission to create stories that shine with love, light, spirit, truth, and joy—helping children navigate life’s challenges, explore big emotions, and grow with courage, kindness, and wonder. 

 

Visit Kathleen at her website and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.