Amidst a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, Jenna McDonough’s children’s book Kind Kids: The Adventures of Hurley, Pearl, and The Pink Soldiers of Kindness offers a much-needed reminder of the power of empathy, emotional intelligence, and peaceful resolutions. 

Targeted at children aged 4–9, McDonough’s debut book blends relatable storytelling with profound life lessons, creating an engaging resource for young readers and their caregivers alike.

Jenna McDonough, a retired teacher and emotional regulation specialist, brings years of expertise to her writing. Her passion for mindfulness and emotional well-being shines through every page of Kind Kids. Inspired by experiences with her children and her work in meditation, mindfulness, and the healing arts, McDonough crafted the book to address two critical needs she observed in children today: a lack of emotional intelligence education and the growing importance of instilling kindness in daily life. Combining her background as an educator with her role as founder of the app PEACEFUL: Mindful Moments For Every Age, a groundbreaking emotional regulation platform for kids aged 3 to 17 and the adults in their lives, Jenna delivers a resource that is as educational as it is heartwarming.

At the center of Kind Kids are Hurley and Pearl, two siblings who, like many children, encounter everyday conflicts. McDonough’s storytelling isn’t just about resolving those conflicts, it’s about teaching children how to understand their emotions and approach challenges with calm, clarity, and self-awareness. The book’s pivotal moments, such as when Hurley and Pearl practice mindful breathing to pause and settle their emotions, reveal actionable lessons for emotional regulation. These moments, as McDonough herself states, “create the space for children to regulate, reflect, and truly understand both their own feelings and each other’s.”

The book is uniquely designed to resonate with various audiences. Younger children will enjoy the vibrant illustrations and dynamic storytelling, which make the emotional lessons accessible and fun. Preschool teachers and elementary educators will find it a valuable addition to any social-emotional learning curriculum, offering practical insights into kindness and conflict resolution. Parents, on the other hand, will discover opportunities for meaningful conversations with their children as they read together, cultivating deeper connections and shared understanding at home.

McDonough’s passion for promoting kindness goes far beyond the pages of this book. The story serves as an extension of her nationwide initiative, Soldiers for Kindness, which aims to spread compassion and empower individuals to make a positive impact. By offering children practical tools for navigating emotions and inspiring proactive engagement with their peers, Kind Kids is not just a book, it’s a mission to nurture a generation of empathetic, emotionally intelligent, and confident individuals.

What makes Kind Kids particularly impactful is McDonough’s authentic connection to her work. For Jenna, writing isn’t just a creative outlet but a deeply personal endeavor that began in childhood. Reflecting on her lifelong love of storytelling, she shares, “Becoming an author feels like the fulfillment of a promise I made to my younger self.” Her genuine enthusiasm for empowering children radiates in her words, her writing process, and the breadth of resources she has developed for families and educators.

Beyond the storyline, McDonough incorporates mindfulness techniques, such as breathing exercises, to help children build practical, lifelong skills. At a time when so many children are grappling with heightened emotions and social pressures, Kind Kids offers a hopeful and constructive framework. Whether it’s providing a quiet moment to reflect or encouraging a child to take positive action, the lessons in this book leave a lasting impression.

With her extensive background as a meditation teacher, sound healer, and educator, Jenna McDonough brings a truly unique and supportive perspective to children’s literature. This is far more than a storybook; it’s a tool for children to see themselves in relatable challenges and feel empowered to grow through them. Parents, educators, and caregivers will find it a valuable resource in helping young minds develop both emotional intelligence and the ability to connect deeply with those around them.

Kind Kids is available now for families, schools, and communities looking to cultivate kindness and help children manage life’s emotions with grace. To learn more, visit www.jennamcdonough.com or follow Jenna on Instagram at @JennaMcDonough. Together, with tools like this inspiring book, we can lay the foundation for a kinder, more connected world.