Happy Finds Her Calm: A Lesson in Self-Control (The Daystar Dogs)
#1 in The Daystar Dogs Series
What’s inside...
Part of The Daystar Dogs series, Happy Finds Her Calm introduces children to Happy, one of the much-loved therapy dogs at Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville. In a busy day filled with visitors, noises, and exciting smells, Happy struggles to contain her enthusiasm. Guided by her canine friends and the Daystar kids, she learns practical strategies—deep breathing, counting, and taking space—to settle her body and mind. By the end of the story, Happy discovers that calm choices help her enjoy every moment even more, offering young readers a model for practicing self-control in their own lives.
Character compass
Happy
Grunt
Lovey
Marvel
Discussion points
When did Happy feel the most excited?
Which calming step would help you at school?
How did Happy’s calmness help her friends?
Why is waiting sometimes hard but important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Act out the Calm Code together after each section.
Share a recent moment you used self-control.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Pause before you act.
Explanation: Happy stops and breathes instead of jumping.
Real-World Application: Count to four before interrupting in class.
Example Lesson: Feelings are signals, not commands.
Explanation: Happy’s excitement guides her to breathe, not bark.
Real-World Application: Notice racing heart, then choose calm words.
Example Lesson: Practice makes progress.
Explanation: Repeated Calm Code turns into habit.
Real-World Application: Use nightly routine to rehearse breathing.
Example Lesson: Calm helps friendships thrive.
Explanation: Happy’s waiting keeps others safe and happy.
Real-World Application: Wait your turn on the playground slide.