The JCT Creations blog
Raising kind, confident kids
Gentle, practical thoughts on kindness, big feelings, bullies, and the magic of story time — from author Cory Tarwater.
World Kindness Day Activities for Kids 3–8
Eight easy ideas for home or school, from kindness heart notes to a kindness jar, plus free printables and a read-aloud.
How to Choose Anti-Bullying Books for Kids 3–8
What makes a kindness book work, a quick checklist for the library, and five ways to read it so the lesson sticks.
Picture Books Where the Bully Becomes a Friend
Six gentle picture books for ages 3 to 8 where the bully changes and becomes a friend, plus questions to ask when you read them.
When Your Child Comes Home Sad About a Friend
Four gentle ways to help your little one when a friend has hurt their feelings, so they feel heard and learn to choose kindness.
October Kindness Month: A 31-Day Kindness Challenge for Kids
One small act of kindness a day for all of October. A simple, free way to practice kindness with your kids this Bullying Prevention Month.
How to Talk to Little Kids About Bullying
A gentle, practical way to talk with kids ages 3 to 8 about bullying and kindness, without the fear.
Why I Wrote a Book Where the Bully Becomes the Hero
The childhood, and the one friend, behind a kindness story where the bully becomes the hero instead of the villain.
Raising a Child Who Includes Others
Some kids need a friend. Others can be the one who offers it first. Gentle, practical ways to raise the child who welcomes the kid on the edge.
On the Podcast: Creativity, Courage & Kind Stories
Cory joins Daniel Kobryner to talk creativity, courage, and turning a small idea into a real children’s book. Watch the full interview.
Unity Day Activities & Ideas for Little Ones: Wear Orange, Be Kind
Easy Unity Day activities for preschool and elementary classrooms and homes: wear orange, a kindness chain, a free printable pack, and more. October 21.
The Grumble-Gator Has Gone Worldwide
Barnaby and Toby’s pond story is now in bookshops and stores around the world. Here’s how to find your copy wherever you are.
Bullying Prevention Month: Read-Alouds That Teach Kindness
October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Five simple ways to use a read-aloud to talk with kids about bullying and kindness.
When Your Child Comes Home Hurt: Start by Listening
Before you fix the bully problem, listen. Five gentle ways to talk with your child about being hurt at school.
Teaching Kids to Stand Up to Bullies — Without Hitting Back
Five gentle, effective ways to help your child respond to meanness with strength and kindness.
Why Reading Aloud to Your Child Changes Everything
What research and every bedtime tell us about the quiet superpower of reading together.