Marieka Heinlen – illustratör

“Crunch crunch crunch. Teeth are strong and sharp. Crunch crunch crunch. Teeth can help you chew. But teeth are not for biting. Ouch! Biting hurts.” Sooner or later, almost all young children will bite someone—a friend, a parent, a sibling. This upbeat, colorful, virtually indestructible book helps prevent biting and teaches positive alternatives.Teeth Are Not for Biting gives reasons why children might want to bite. Little mouths feel sore when new teeth come in; sometimes kids bite when they’re hungry, tired, cranky, frustrated, angry, bored, distressed, or seeking attention. Author Elizabeth Verdick suggests positive things children can do instead of biting: chew a chewy toy, drink a cold drink, get a hug, tell a grown-up. This book also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.Best Behavior® SeriesSimple words and lively full-color illustrations guide children to choose positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages 1–4 and an expanded paperback for ages 4–7. Bilingual board book and paperback editions of select titles also are available. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips for teachers, caregivers, and parents.

Some of your words are kind. But some of them are not. Words are not for hurting. What do hurtful words do?”Children are known for speaking their minds. We can’t expect them to watch every word, but we can help them to understand that their words affect other people. We can gently guide them to choose words that are helpful instead of hurtful, and to say two very important words—“I’m sorry”—when hurtful words come out before they can stop them.Like Free Spirit's earlier board books Hands Are Not for Hitting and Teeth Are Not for Biting, Words Are Not for Hurting helps little ones learn big ideas: that they are responsible for what they do and say; that their actions and words affect others; and that they can make positive choices. Simple words and delightful full-color illustrations make it perfect for reading aloud one-on-one or in small groups. The book also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.

Help kids choose helpful words, not hurtful words.Words Are Not for Hurting shows young children how words can be hurtful and what to do about it. For children ages 4–7, this engaging book explains that it’s not okay to insult, tease, name-call, or exclude others. Adults and children can read this book together to start conversations about topics like sticking up for yourself, apologizing when you say something hurtful, and choosing kind ways to express feelings or set boundaries.In kid-friendly terms and with engaging illustrations, this book helps children choose words that don’t harm others. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this title helps readers develop communication skills they can carry with them for life.Shows how to recognize and respond to insults, name-calling, and other hurtful wordsTeaches children what to do if they or someone else uses hurtful languagePairs simple text with bright, inclusive images of children in everyday situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleWords Are Not for Hurting is a great resource for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to teach kids to speak respectfully. The book can be read in response to situations that arise, or as part of daily routines. A special section for adults offers practical strategies for teaching children about kindness—including how our tone of voice and facial expressions lend meaning to our words. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

“Look at those feet! Aren’t they sweet?” Yes—when they’re walking, standing, leaping and landing. And when they’re kicking balls or leaves. But not when they’re kicking people!In simple words and charming full-color illustrations, this book helps little ones learn to use their feet for fun, not in anger or frustration. It also includes tips for parents and caregivers on how to help toddlers be sweet with their feet.

If pets could talk, what would they say? Maybe “Fur is for petting, backs are for scratching, noses are for nuzzling . . . and tails are not for pulling!” Toddlers and pets belong together—as long as toddlers don’t chase, grab, squeeze, yank, and tease. In simple words and delightful illustrations, this book teaches the basics of kindness to animals: careful handling, awareness, safety, and respect. It also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.

Achoo! Cough! F-L-U-S-H! What to do? In childcare, in preschool, at home, and everywhere, toddlers need to learn that germs are not for sharing. Rather than focus on what germs are, this book teaches the basics of not spreading them: Cover up a sneeze or cough. Hug or blow kisses when you’re sick. And most of all, wash your hands! Child-friendly words and full-color illustrations help little ones stay clean and healthy. Includes tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

Teach children life skills to prevent the spread of germsGerms Are Not for Sharing helps young children develop good hygiene and hand-washing habits. It explains, in kid-friendly language and with engaging illustrations, what germs are and how they can spread and cause illness. Readers learn to cover their faces when they cough and sneeze and how to wash their hands thoroughly. Extended text in the back expands on the book’s themes, explaining how and why we work to prevent germs from spreading.Great for classrooms and to read at home, this informative book shows kids ages 4–7 to be germ aware. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this title helps children develop health and wellness skills they can carry with them for life.Shows why good hygiene helps prevent us from getting sickTeaches children to cough, sneeze, and wash hands hygienicallyFeatures relatable, inclusive illustrations to show kids in everyday situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleGerms Are Not for Sharing is a useful resource for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to encourage good hand-washing hygiene. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

It’s never too soon for children to learn that violence is never okay, hands can do many good things, and everyone is capable of positive, loving actions.In this bright, inviting, durable board book, simple words and full-color illustrations teach these important concepts in ways even very young children can understand.Created in response to requests from parents, preschool teachers, and childcare providers, this book belongs everywhere young children are. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.Best Behavior® SeriesSimple words and lively full-color illustrations guide children to choose positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages 1–4 and an expanded paperback for ages 4–7. Bilingual board book and paperback editions of titles are also available. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips for teachers, caregivers, and parents.

Learning to use the potty takes patience and practice, and this charming, straightforward book helps pave the way. Young children learn how to use the potty and why it’s time to do so, while gaining the courage and confidence to face this important milestone in their lives. When little ones learn to “do what the big kids do” (go, wipe, flush, wash their hands), they won’t need a diaper anymore—they’ll have underwear under there! Includes tips for parents and caregivers from a children’s health specialist.

An award-winning author/illustrator team offers a fresh look at the times and transitions all toddlers face daily, giving young children the tools to handle routines with confidence and cooperation.Toddlers will look forward to clean-up time with this simple rhyming book that encourages them to chant along as they tidy up. Young children learn to work together to put items in their place, make a neater space, keep a smile on their face—and make room for more fun. Delightful illustrations enhance the text.Part of the Toddler Tools series, Clean-Up Time can be shared before (or during) the desired “time,” or whenever toddlers need encouragement with routines. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.

An award-winning author/illustrator team offers a fresh look at the times and transitions all toddlers face daily, giving young children the tools to handle routines with confidence and cooperation.Being dropped off at childcare or cared for by a baby-sitter means saying good-bye to Mom or Dad—and for many toddlers, bye-bye is a big deal. This gentle book helps ease the transition with simple rituals: hugs and kisses, a big wave, a deep breath, and the confidence to seek comfort with the new caregiver or other children. Toddlers learn that good-bye isn’t forever, it’s just for a while.Part of the Toddler Tools series, Bye-Bye Time can be shared before (or during) the desired “time,” or whenever toddlers need encouragement with routines. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.

“Put away the wiggles. Put away the giggles. Listening works better when your body’s calm and still.” When it’s time for young children to listen closely, this book sets the tone. They discover that it’s important to open their eyes and ears but to close their mouths (“zip it, lock it, put it in your pocket”) so good listening can begin.An award-winning author/illustrator team offers a fresh look at the times and transitions all toddlers face daily, giving young children the tools to handle routines with confidence and cooperation.Listening Time can be shared before (or during) the desired “time,” or whenever toddlers need encouragement with routines. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.Toddler Tools® seriesDaily transitions and routines can be a struggle for any toddler, as well as parents and caregivers. These award-winning, positive books can help ease the many challenging "times" that are a part of every toddler's day. Share them before (or during) the desired "time," or whenever toddlers need encouragement with routines.

This paperback version of Hands Are Not for Hitting is an English social-emotional learning book aimed at children ages 4 to 7 (grades PK-2). Through simple, direct language and vibrant illustrations, this title teaches young readers that hands can be used for kindness, not harm. Children learn respectful behaviors like helping, sharing, and gentle touch, along with strategies to manage impulses and choose positive actions. It’s ideal for read-alouds, classroom behavior lessons, or family conversations.Paperback edition of *Hands Are Not for Hitting* for ages?4-7, grades PK-2Uses clear text and images to teach nonviolent, respectful behaviorShows hands used for positive actions, not hitting or harmingGives children strategies for impulse control and conflict resolutionGreat for SEL lessons, guided reading, or caregiver discussions

Little ones learn that hitting is never okay, hands can do many good things, and everyone is capable of positive, loving actions. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.

Manners start with a smile—then you add the words. There are polite words to use when you greet someone, ask for something, or (oops!) make a mistake. There’s even a nice way to say no. This book gives toddlers a head start on manners, setting the stage for social skills that will last a lifetime. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.

Ease little ones into the get-ready-for-bed routine with this warm and cozy bedtime book. Aided by Mom and Dad, a sister and brother enjoy a little snack, relaxing baths, time for brushing teeth, stories, lullabies, back rubs, and hugs. Cheerful, soft illustrations and reassuring text set a tone that helps toddlers feel good about settling down to sleep. (As the narrator explains, “I do my best growing when I’m sleeping.”) In the morning, the children will yawn, stretch, and be a little bit bigger, a little bit stronger, and a little bit smarter—all because of a good night’s sleep. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.

Every parent, caregiver—and toddler—knows the misery that comes with meltdowns and temper tantrums. Through rhythmic text and warm illustrations, this gentle, reassuring book offers toddlers simple tools to release strong feelings, express them, and calm themselves down. Children learn to use their calm-down place—a quiet space where they can cry, ask for a hug, sing to themselves, be rocked in a grown-up’s arms, talk about feelings, and breathe: “One, two, three . . . I’m calm as can be. I’m taking care of me.” After a break, toddlers will feel like new—and adults will, too. Books include tips for parents and caregivers.

Mealtime—“Yummy-in-the-tummy time”—is an opportunity to teach young children two major life skills: nutrition and table manners. Simple but important mealtime routines come to life as the toddlers in this book remember to wash their hands, use a napkin and fork or spoon, stay at the table, and eat healthy foods.Toddlers also learn the one big rule for mealtime: Always try one bite (“You just might like it!”). Parents and caregivers want toddlers to develop healthy eating habits and positive mealtime routines. This book helps them do so with Verdick’s keen ability to speak directly to little ones and Heinlen’s delightful, appealing illustrations. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.Toddler Tools® seriesDaily transitions and routines can be a struggle for any toddler, as well as parents and caregivers. These award-winning, positive books can help ease the many challenging "times" that are a part of every toddler's day. Share them before (or during) the desired "time," or whenever toddlers need encouragement with routines.

Teach kids proper hygiene, hand washing, and how to stop the spread of germs with this English-Spanish bilingual picture book.Sneezes, coughs, runny noses, and messy hands are part of everyday life—but kids need to learn how to stay healthy and keep germs from spreading. Germs Are Not for Sharing / Los gérmenes no son para compartir is an engaging English-Spanish bilingual picture book that helps children ages 4–7 understand what germs are, how they spread, and what they can do to prevent illness.Using simple, kid-friendly language and bright illustrations, this reassuring book teaches essential habits like washing hands thoroughly, covering coughs and sneezes, and making safe, healthy choices at home and school. It’s especially helpful for children who forget hygiene routines or are learning to take responsibility for their health.Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this book helps children build lifelong wellness habits and awareness.In this book, children will:Learn how to avoid spreading germs and getting sickPractice proper hand-washing and hygiene routinesUnderstand why covering coughs and sneezes mattersBuild healthy habits for school, home, and daycareMake responsible choices that protect othersPerfect for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors, this book is ideal for back-to-school, classrooms, and everyday routines.Includes a helpful adult section in both English and Spanish with tips for teaching hygiene, illness prevention, and healthy habits.

“Look at those feet! Aren’t they sweet?” Yes—when they’re walking, standing, leaping, and landing. And when they’re kicking balls or leaves. But not when they’re kicking people!In simple words and charming full-color illustrations, this bilingual English-Spanish book helps toddlers learn to use their feet for fun, not in anger or frustration. It also includes tips for parents and caregivers in both languages on how to help toddlers be sweet with their feet.

With On-the-Go Time, shopping and errands really can mean fewer hassles and more fun for everyone! Toddlers learn simple tools and encouragement to keep moving, cope with the changing scenes, and be super helpers in the car, at the store or library, and on the road. What do they do when they’re on-the-go? Listen, follow along, and even lend a hand. If they’re disappointed or overstimulated along the way, they can take deep breaths to calm down. Who says running errands with toddlers has to be stressful? Includes tips for parents and caregivers. Part of the award-winning Toddler Tools™ series.

Potty training for kids takes patience and practice, and this charming, straightforward book helps pave the way. With Diapers Are Not Forever / Los pañales no son para siempre, young children learn how to use the potty and why it’s time to do so, while gaining the courage and confidence to face this important milestone in their lives. When little ones learn to do what the big kids do (go, wipe, flush, wash their hands), they won’t need a diaper anymore—they’ll have underwear under there! The book includes tips for parents and caregivers from a children’s health specialist.

We’ve all seen it—the nose-picking habit starts as early as the toddler years, and no child is the exception. Young children pick their noses for a variety of reasons, from colds to allergies to curiosity or boredom. This board book for toddlers and preschoolers is the answer to the age-old question “How can I get my child not to pick, especially not in public?”With gentle humor and kid-friendly support, this board book for toddlers and preschoolers helps guide little ones away from nose picking toward healthier habits, like using a tissue and washing their hands. Catchy words help children remember what to do; vibrant full-color illustrations bring the words to life. Throughout, the positive message shines through: noses are for breathing, sniffing, smelling . . . but not for picking!

English-Spanish bilingual editions of titles in Free Spirit’s popular Best Behavior series.The toddler years are full of growth and smiles and sweetness—but also tantrums. With toddlers, yelling, screaming, wailing, and flailing are a normal part of life. Very young children don’t yet have the words to express strong feelings, and they’re still learning social skills. This board book helps little ones understand why it’s better to use an indoor voice—“so people hear the words and not the yelling”—and how to calm down and ask for help so they can get what they need. Also includes tips for parents and caregivers.The Best Behavior series uses simple words and delightful full-color illustrations to guide children to choose peaceful, positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages baby–preschool, and a longer, more in-depth paperback for ages 4–7. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

Help kids tune in to the volume of their voices and respond to feelings without yellingBig feelings like frustration and excitement can make us want to yell, but we can choose to use our indoor voices instead. In Voices Are Not for Yelling, children learn that it’s okay to feel frustrated, angry, or excited—and that they can express those feelings calmly. Great for classrooms and to read at home, this reassuring book shows kids ages 4–7 how to pause, take deep breaths, and use words to communicate clearly and respectfully. With simple text and bright, inclusive illustrations, this book empowers children to manage their voices and express themselves in positive ways.In kid-friendly terms, Voices Are Not for Yelling shows how strong emotions can be regulated with breathing, so we can use our words to get our needs met. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this title helps young children develop communication and behavior skills they can carry with them for life.Shows that using words and indoor voices can help us feel heardGives children ideas for calming themselves before they yellEncourages kids to save loud voices for appropriate outdoor settingsUses relatable, inclusive illustrations to show kids in everyday situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleVoices Are Not for Yelling is a helpful resource for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to encourage peaceful communication. The book can be read during emotional moments or as part of everyday routines, opening conversations and supporting children in building positive voice habits. A special section for adults offers practical strategies for guiding kids toward calm expression and setting healthy boundaries without resorting to yelling. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

Every parent, caregiver—and young child—knows the misery that comes with meltdowns and toddlers’ temper tantrums. Through rhythmic text in both English and Spanish and warm illustrations, this gentle, reassuring book offers toddlers simple tools to release strong feelings, express them, and calm themselves down. After a break, toddlers will feel like new—and adults will, too.

Sometimes it’s fun to share, and sometimes it’s hard. In both English and Spanish, this book offers toddlers simple choices (take turns, use it together, wait for another time) to make sharing easier, and shows them where to turn for help when sharing is difficult. Little ones learn that sharing can mean double the fun—and sharing a while can make someone smile!

Being dropped off at childcare or cared for by a baby-sitter means saying good-bye to Mom or Dad—and for many toddlers, bye-bye is a big deal. This gentle bilingual English-Spanish board book helps ease the transition and avoid sepa­ration anxiety with simple rituals: hugs and kisses, a big wave, a deep breath, and the confidence to seek comfort with the new caregiver or other children.

Clean-Up Time / Momento de arreglar is a bilingual (English-Spanish) board book designed for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 1–3). Part of the trusted Toddler Tools® series from Free Spirit Publishing, this engaging title uses rhythm, rhyme, and repetition to encourage young children to take responsibility during cleanup routines. With simple bilingual text and lively illustrations, it builds early vocabulary, fosters independence, and creates positive daily habits. Parents and teachers can use it to ease transitions, introduce routines, and support bilingual learning at home or in the classroom.Part of the Toddler Tools® series trusted by parents and educators for social-emotional learningEncourages cooperation, responsibility, and positive cleanup habitsReinforces vocabulary in both English and Spanish using simple, repetitive phrasingBuilds early literacy and language skills through rhythm and rhymeIdeal for parent-child reading, bilingual lessons, preschool routines, and classroom transitions