Basel worries about almost everything—hats, clouds, even shoes. But when his grandmother gives him a set of “worry dolls,” he learns to overcome his anxiety. What is the secret of these dolls? And how can adults support children in expressing their emotions?
Basel worries about almost everything—hats, clouds, even shoes. He feels confused and thinks he might be silly. But when his grandmother gives him a set of tiny “worry dolls” and reveals their secret, Basel manages to overcome his anxiety… and even tries to help the worry dolls themselves.
During childhood, a child’s thoughts, imagination, and questions grow rapidly, while their ability to understand and regulate their emotions is still developing. This is why children sometimes worry about things that seem simple or ordinary to us. It is important to explain to our child that worry is a natural feeling—we all experience it in different situations, and it sometimes helps us stay alert and cautious, which is a good thing.
But at other times, unrealistic fears appear and cause stress without a real reason.
We should avoid dismissing their feelings by saying, “There’s nothing to be afraid of!” Instead, we can say, “I’m here with you, and I understand how you feel,” to give them reassurance and a sense of safety. As in the story, with the help of the worry dolls, the grandmother teaches Basel an effective way to manage his emotions and express them. Let us listen to our child’s worries and encourage emotional expression—whether through talking, drawing, or even using a small doll that “listens” to them at night.
What was Basel worried about? Why do you think he felt this way? What did you think about his parents’ words—did they help him appropriately? Who helped Basel manage his anxiety, and how?
About expressing emotions
Ask your child: What are some things that worry you sometimes? What do you usually do when you feel worried?
About helping others
Ask your child: What did you think of the ending? Why did Basel make so many worry dolls? Have you ever helped someone before? If you were in Basel’s place, what would you do?
The story presents a traditional and popular practice from Latin America, used to help children release their worries. We invite you to learn more about this tradition. You can also ask older family members about the methods they used in the past to ease anxiety or fear before bedtime.
Create your own worry dolls together. Encourage your child to share one worry with the doll and place it under their pillow before bed—just like Basel did in the story.
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