What do shoe-tying struggles and emotional resilience have in common? In this episode of That’s Good Parenting, I’m talking with certified parent coach, author, parent, and grandparent Mindy Green about her NEW children’s picture book, Sammy’s Super Stretchy Shoelaces—a story born from her grandson’s real-life frustration with shoelaces that just… wouldn’t… cooperate.
We explore how Sammy’s “stretchy” shoelaces become a powerful analogy for patience, problem-solving, and emotional flexibility -- for both kids and the grown-ups who love them.
You’ll hear:
- How a real moment turned into a published children’s book
- Why “small” tasks can trigger big feelings for kids
- Simple ways parents and grandparents can respond
- How to use picture books for meaningful conversations
- Mindy’s journey from lifelong dream to a published book
We also chat about what it’s like to kid-size your expertise by creating her character first, her story, and seeing it all in print! Find out what's next for Sammy and Winston, too!
About MIndy
Mindy Green is a certified parent coach, speaker, parent, and grandparent who helps families navigate everyday challenges with more calm, connection, and confidence. Through her coaching, resources, and newsletter, Mindy gives parents practical tools for handling big emotions, building problem-solving skills, and strengthening relationships at home.
Her debut children’s picture book, Sammy’s Super Stretchy Shoelaces, weaves a real-life story from her grandson’s experience into a playful, relatable tale that helps kids—and their grown-ups—stretch through frustration and learn simple calming strategies together.
Connect with Mindy Green
👉 Book: Sammy’s Super Stretchy Shoelaces (hardcover & paperback on Amazon)
https://a.co/d/ifpqRgp
👉 Parent Coaching & Free Newsletter: www.mindygreencoaching.com
Connect with Dori / Work Together on a Children’s Book
I’m Dori Durbin—children’s book author, illustrator, and book coach. I help experts, educators, and coaches “kid-size” their big ideas into meaningful stories that families can grow with.
👉 Learn more about working with me: doridurbin.com
👉 Join That’s Good Parenting Club to help shape future expert-created kids’ books: https://club.thatsgoodparenting.com/club
If You Enjoyed This Episode
- Follow/subscribe to That’s Good Parenting
- Share this episode with a parent, grandparent, or teacher who supports kids with big feelings
- Leave a rating or review so more families can find us 💛
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