
Bounce Back: Storybook
A storybook featuring Alex about persistence and resilience in the face of new challenges.
Share this story about Alex, a Sesame Street friend. When Alex’s father was incarcerated, Alex and his family faced big challenges, and he coped with big feelings such as fear and anger. But they’ve moved through those hard times, learned coping strategies, and are stronger for it.
Whether the problems young children face are big or small, it helps to build their resilience—the ability to move through challenges and bounce back from setbacks. Persistence is an important piece of resilience, and, like all people, Alex needs to find a way to tolerate frustration and practice patience with himself.
After reading, do the activity together. Invite children to celebrate all the amazing skills they’ve learned so far—and look forward to learning new ones!

Safe & Together
When families have to leave home in order to stay safe, it helps to remember that home is where the love is.

Bubble Time
A quiet activity such as blowing bubbles can help both children and adults breathe deeply, slow down… and calm down.

Crayon Power
Coloring together can soothe both children and grown-ups.

See You Later Alligator
A special, loving good-bye routine can make separations easier.

Friendship Bracelets
When it’s hard to be apart from those we love, the littlest things can become big reminders that someone loves us and is thinking of us.

Cloud Watching
Spending time outside can feel like a “reset” on the day.

Pillow Hugs
Hugging a pillow covered with an item of a loved one’s clothing can help comfort children when they’re missing them.