A Heartfelt Guide for Little Movers: Review of My Very Exciting, Sorta Scary, Big Move

Introduction: A Workbook That Understands Big Feelings

Moving to a new home is a monumental experience for a child—filled with excitement, anxiety, and countless questions. My Very Exciting, Sorta Scary, Big Move: A Workbook for Children Moving to a New Home by Lori Attanasio Woodring Ph.D. is a compassionate, interactive guide designed to help kids navigate this emotional journey. Unlike generic storybooks, this workbook combines storytelling, activities, and therapeutic techniques to ease the transition.

As someone who moved frequently as a child, I wish I’d had a resource like this. Woodring’s background in psychology shines through, making this more than just a book—it’s a toolkit for emotional resilience. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or counselor, this review will explore why this workbook stands out in children’s literature on moving.

Plot Summary: A Journey Through Change

My Very Exciting, Sorta Scary, Big Move doesn’t follow a traditional narrative but instead structures itself as a guided experience. The book introduces a relatable scenario: a child preparing to move to a new home. Through prompts, exercises, and gentle storytelling, it walks young readers through:

  • Pre-move jitters (e.g., worries about leaving friends, a familiar room, or school)
  • The moving process (packing, saying goodbyes, traveling)
  • Settling into the new home (exploring, making friends, adjusting to change)

Each section is interactive, encouraging kids to draw, write, and reflect. For example, one activity asks children to list things they’re excited and nervous about, validating both emotions. Another helps them visualize their new room, fostering a sense of ownership.

The brilliance lies in its simplicity—it meets kids where they are, without overwhelming them.

Character Analysis & Development: The Child as the Protagonist

Since this is a workbook, the “main character” is the child using it. Woodring cleverly avoids a one-size-fits-all approach by letting kids project their own experiences onto the exercises.

  • Empowerment Through Participation: The child isn’t a passive reader but an active participant in their story. By drawing their old house, writing about their feelings, or mapping their new neighborhood, they gain agency over the transition.
  • Emotional Validation: The book normalizes mixed emotions—excitement and fear—which is crucial for emotional development.

For parents, this is a subtle way to understand their child’s perspective without direct interrogation.

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Interactive & Therapeutic

Woodring’s background in child psychology is evident in her approach:

  • Conversational Tone: The language is warm and reassuring, like a trusted adult guiding the child.
  • Structured Flexibility: While the book follows a logical sequence, kids can skip around based on their needs.
  • Multisensory Engagement: Activities range from drawing to writing to verbal discussions, catering to different learning styles.

Comparatively, it’s more hands-on than classic moving-themed picture books like The Berenstain Bears’ Moving Day or Alexander, Who’s Not Going to Move.

Themes & Deeper Meanings: More Than Just a Move

Beyond logistics, the workbook explores universal themes:

  1. Change as Growth: It reframes moving as an adventure rather than a loss.
  2. Emotional Intelligence: Kids learn to name and process complex feelings.
  3. Resilience: By encouraging problem-solving (e.g., “How will you make new friends?”), it builds coping skills.

These lessons extend beyond moving—they’re life skills.

Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Resonates

Reading this as an adult, I was struck by how validating it would’ve been for my younger self. The exercises are simple yet profound, like the “Goodbye Letter” to a favorite place—a therapeutic ritual I didn’t know I needed.

Parents might tear up seeing their child’s honest responses (e.g., “I’m scared no one will like me”). It’s a window into their inner world.

Comparison to Similar Works

Most children’s books about moving focus on the story (e.g., A House for Hermit Crab). This workbook is unique because:

  • It’s participatory: Unlike passive reading, kids do something with their emotions.
  • It’s adaptable: Useful for local moves, cross-country relocations, or even school transitions.

For a more narrative-driven companion, pair it with Big Ernie’s New Home.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:

âś… Emotionally Intelligent: Validates feelings without sugarcoating challenges.
✅ Practical: Includes checklists (e.g., “What to Pack”) for tangible preparation.
âś… Reusable: Activities can be revisited post-move.

Weaknesses:

❌ Limited Diversity: The illustrations and scenarios skew toward a suburban, middle-class experience. More inclusivity (e.g., apartment moves, international relocations) would broaden its appeal.
❌ Parental Guidance Needed: Younger kids will require help with reading/writing prompts.

Target Audience: Who Should Read This?

  • Children Ages 5–10: The ideal range for emotional comprehension and fine motor skills (drawing/writing).
  • Parents & Educators: A valuable resource to facilitate tough conversations.
  • Therapists & Counselors: Useful in clinical settings for children facing transitions.

Memorable Quotes & Passages

While not quote-heavy, these prompts stand out:

“Draw your favorite room in your old house. What do you want to remember about it?”
“What’s one thing you’re excited to try in your new home?”

These exercises gently balance nostalgia and optimism.

Cultural Context: Moving in Modern Childhood

With 40 million Americans moving annually (U.S. Census data), this book fills a critical gap. It’s especially relevant in military families, foster care, or post-pandemic relocations where stability is fragile.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Moving Families

My Very Exciting, Sorta Scary, Big Move is a tender, practical guide that turns a daunting transition into a manageable journey. It’s not just about moving houses—it’s about moving hearts and minds toward resilience.

đź”— Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers:

  • How did you handle moving as a child? What helped (or would’ve helped) you adjust?
  • For parents: What’s the hardest part of helping your child through a big change?

This book isn’t just a tool—it’s a companion for one of childhood’s biggest adventures.

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