Lucy Learns to Be Brave: A Lesson in Courage – Help Children Ages 3-6 to Move Past Worry, Fear, and Anxious Feelings (The Daystar Dogs)
The Daystar Dogs Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
Lucy, an affectionate but timid puppy, loves romping with the other Daystar dogs until loud noises and unfamiliar places trigger waves of worry. When the annual Dog Parade asks Lucy to lead the pack—a role she’s sure she cannot handle—she considers backing out. Guided by her caring trainer and her canine friends, Lucy practices simple calming skills, talks back to scary thoughts, and discovers that courage means acting even when fear is close by. Through gentle storytelling and bright illustrations, the book models concrete tools preschoolers can use to face new experiences with confidence.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Character compass
Lucy
Toby
Charlie
Discussion points
What makes Lucy feel worried at first?
Which brave step helped Lucy the most?
When have you felt like Lucy, and what did you do?
How did Lucy’s friends support her?
What brave thing would you like to try next?
Tip: Role play these questions
Act out the parade using toy animals to reinforce the story.
Draw a 'Brave Plan' chart together for upcoming real-life events.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Use calming strategies when anxiety appears.
Explanation: Lucy practices Brave Breaths during loud noises.
Real-World Application: Children can inhale for four counts and exhale for four whenever worried.
Example Lesson: Positive self-talk changes how we feel.
Explanation: Lucy replaces 'I can’t' with 'I’m practicing bravery'.
Real-World Application: Kids can repeat 'I can try' before new tasks.
Example Lesson: Supportive friends make challenges easier.
Explanation: Fellow dogs walk the route with Lucy beforehand.
Real-World Application: Invite siblings or friends to rehearse for class presentations.