Some Days Mom's Different

Some days Mom sings in the kitchen and chases you around the yard. Other days, she stays in her room, or says things that don't make sense, or cries without saying why.

Some Days Mom's Different gives young children the words to understand what they're experiencing when a parent struggles with mental health or addiction. Through simple, compassionate language and warm full-color illustrations, this picture book validates a child's feelings - confusion, worry, love, and hope - without placing blame or shame on anyone in the family.

Children learn that it's okay to feel all of those things at once. That a parent's hard days are not their fault. That they are still loved, even on the hard days. And that there are people who can help.

A Note for Grown-Ups at the end of the book provides guidance for parents, caregivers, counselors, and educators on how to use this book as a starting point for conversation. It also includes trusted resources from SAMHSA, Al-Anon/Alateen, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN), and other organizations that support families navigating these challenges.

Ideal for:
Children ages 4-8Families dealing with parental mental illness or substance useSchool counselors and social workers practicing bibliotherapyChild therapists and play therapistsAddiction treatment centers with family programsFoster care and child welfare programsHospital social work departments
Some Days Mom's Different is the first book in a series that reflects the full diversity of families facing these challenges, so every child can see themselves in the story.