Zach Warring, author of the new children’s book Mady and Her Counselor, recently sat down with me to discuss his inspiration for the book, its message, and the importance of talking about mental health with kids.
Motivation and Inspiration
Warring shares that the book came about from observing a growing trend towards prioritizing mental health in his coaching experiences. He noticed that even young children, from 10-year-old recreational volleyball players to NCAA Division 1 athletes, faced similar issues and often struggled to find guidance. With time on his hands last April, he decided to take his ideas and put them into a book to explore the topic with young readers.
Content and Message
Mady and Her Counselor tells the story of Mady, a young girl who loves school but starts encountering worry and anxiety about school and friendships that makes learning less enjoyable. Unable to solve these issues on her own, her parents encourage her to seek counseling. The book then explores Mady’s journey through counseling, showing what it looks like for a child her age and how it helps her navigate her challenges.
Importance and Uniqueness
With the increasing prevalence of mental health issues in children, Warring believes this book is crucial for encouraging open conversations about their needs. He emphasizes that adults should be equipped to hear these needs and understand them without judgment. He hopes the book will encourage adults to seek help themselves if needed, as it’s not a sign of weakness but a healthy practice for emotional well-being.
Challenges and Considerations
Warring faced several challenges while writing the book. He wanted to keep the story grounded and realistic, avoiding fantastical elements while still engaging young readers. He also incorporated a section for parents and adults at the end, aiming to explain the counseling process and address common questions they might have.
Feedback and Rewards
Warring has received positive feedback on the book, with parents and educators finding value in its message. He appreciates the stories of children enjoying the artwork and the positive impact it has had on some families. He plans to continue engaging with schools and libraries to make the book accessible to more children.
Moving Forward
Warring is passionate about using his knowledge as a coach to address mental health issues. He believes that mental well-being is crucial for success in all areas of life, including sports. He is currently considering writing a sequel to Mady and Her Counselor and exploring other projects to promote healthy mental practices for both children and adults.
Availability
Mady and Her Counselor is available for purchase on Amazon in both Kindle and paperback formats. It is also available for Prime members with two-day shipping. Warring intends to donate books to schools and libraries to make them accessible to children regardless of their families’ financial circumstances.
Final Message
Warring encourages everyone to remember that needing help is a natural part of life. He believes that talking openly about mental health from a young age can help children navigate their challenges more effectively and lead happier, healthier lives.
Check out the video for the interview here and hear more on my response as a licensed therapist and coach and how it relates to the importance of Mady and Her Counselor.
Mady and Her Counselor is available for purchase from several retailers.
If you feel that you or your child would benefit from a therapy visit, please contact us to set up a consultation.
