When we started writing ABCs for the Soul, we knew we did not want to make another alphabet book.
Rather than using familiar examples such as A for Apple, B for Ball, and C for Cat, we wanted to choose words that could grow with a child. Words that could give children language for their inner world, for the people around them, and for their place in something bigger.
So we built the book around three ideas: Me, You and We. Together, they offer a simple way to explore identity, relationships, and belonging.
Me: knowing yourself
Words like Abundance, Beliefs, Creativity, Dream, Energy, Intention, Joy, Self-Love, and Worth
This is where we think it begins. Knowing themselves may help children value what they can offer to other people.
W is for Worth: “Your true value—let it show. You were born unique and special, and that’s important to know!”
The Calming Conversation Starter that goes with it asks: “What is a way you can show how special (worthy) you are?”
We are not asking children to earn their worth. We are inviting them to notice it is already there.
In our experience, children whose sense of worth does not depend on approval or achievement may find it easier to steady themselves and to keep going when things get hard. Words like Self-Love, Beliefs, and Worth are not indulgent. In our home, they are some of the most useful words we have.
You: honoring others
Words like Forgiveness, Kindness, Love, and Open-Mindedness
Children can learn empathy by watching how adults respond to other people. They notice how we react to their feelings, and to the feelings of those around us.
But empathy also needs language. When a child has words for what someone else might be feeling, they may find it easier to understand a different point of view.
K is for Kindness: “Which feels so good to be. Kindness is sharing, caring and loving; it unites us all in harmony.”
The conversation starter asks: “What’s one way you were kind to someone in your life today?”
We are not offering kindness as a rule to follow. We are inviting a child to remember what it felt like to care for someone. Words like Forgiveness and Open-Mindedness can help children find their way through disagreement, difference, and repair.
We: belonging
Words like Nature, Peace, Togetherness, Universe, and eXistence
Belonging is something we practice together.
When children feel connected to something larger than themselves, whether that is nature, a community, or the sky at night, that connection may encourage them to care for their community and environment.
N is for Nature: “It’s the home that we all share. When you play in the forest or swim in a lake, you’ll feel Mother Earth’s loving care.”
The conversation starter asks: “What is your favorite place in nature? Why do you love it so much?”
We want children to notice that they are part of the natural world, not simply visitors to it. Words like Peace, Togetherness, and Universe are a quiet way of saying: you are not alone here.
Where the conversations happen
Every word in the book comes with a Calming Conversation Starter. Not a question to test what a child knows, but one that invites them to wonder. For example: - “What is a positive belief you hold about yourself?” (B is for Beliefs) - “Tell me about a time this week when you felt joyful (super happy).” (J is for Joy) - “What are you most grateful for today?” (G is for Gratitude)
We find that the most meaningful moments often happen when we listen rather than explain. Children often learn well through conversation, when an adult asks an open question and truly listens to the answer.
Q is for Questioning: “Which means expanding your mind. Challenge things that don’t make sense. By doing so, the truth you will find.”
Why these three
For us, raising a thoughtful child involves more than managing behavior. It is about helping a child know themselves, honor others, and feel they belong.
The three ideas build on each other. A child who knows their worth may extend kindness more freely. A child who practices empathy may feel togetherness more deeply. A child who is allowed to question may find their own place in the world more honestly.
We were honored when ABCs for the Soul was named a finalist in the 2026 Independent Publisher Book Awards.
One word at a time
You do not have to read this book cover to cover. Some nights we read one page; on others, a single question leads to a longer conversation. We do not always reach the question, and that is fine. The goal is connection, not completion.
