Every day, kids make choices, some big, some small, and many without even realizing it. From how they treat a friend to whether they listen to that little voice inside, each choice has the power to light them up or dim their glow.
In Buster and His Shadow Journey by Gail McCarroll, young readers meet a rainbow-colored dragon who learns this lesson the hard way. Buster’s magical colors shine bright when he’s on the right path, but his glow fades when he lets himself be tricked or distracted. It’s not just a magical detail. It’s a powerful symbol of how our choices shape who we become.
This heartwarming story offers a gentle, kid-friendly way to explore emotional intelligence and the importance of staying true to yourself, even when the shadows try to pull you away.
How Choices Make Us Feel Inside
Helping children understand the connection between their choices and feelings can be a valuable life lesson. It teaches them to pause, reflect, and choose with awareness.
Try explaining it like this:
“Have you ever done something you knew wasn’t quite right, and then your tummy felt weird, or your smile went away? That’s like your inner light getting a little dim. But when you’re kind, brave, or honest, don’t you feel warm and bright inside? That’s your light shining!”
In Buster’s world, this metaphor becomes beautifully visual. His rainbow body dims when he follows distractions or tries to chase things that aren’t meant for him. But the moment he returns to his true path, the colors come back, stronger than ever.
Children see it, feel it, and begin to understand our choices can lift us up or lead us astray.
Helping Kids Notice When They’re Off-Track
Even adults struggle to notice when we’re not being true to ourselves. It’s no surprise that kids need extra help developing that skill. Here’s how to guide them:
Teach the Pause
Encourage your child to take a breath before reacting. A simple “Let’s stop and think” helps create space between impulse and choice.
Name the Feeling
Ask questions like, “How did that make you feel?” or “Do you feel proud of what just happened?” This builds emotional vocabulary and self-awareness.
Show the Cause and Effect
Gently point out when a decision led to feeling upset or when doing the right thing brought joy. Over time, they’ll start to make those connections themselves.
Celebrate When They Choose Well
When your child follows their inner light, even in small ways, cheer them on. Reinforcement helps their emotional compass grow stronger.
Growing Brighter, One Choice at a Time
Buster’s journey isn’t perfect. He gets tricked. He gets tempted. But he always finds his way back, and each time, he shines a little more. His story reminds children (and adults!) that growing up means making choices, learning from them, and listening to the light inside.
Takeaway
Every child has that light. Every child can learn to trust it. Buster and His Shadow Journey is a magical story that gently teaches children how to make wise choices and stay true to themselves. Grab your copy today, and let the adventure and the learning begin!