When Finding Space Helps Us Find Ourselves
In a world that often moves at full speed, children face big emotions that can sometimes feel too overwhelming to navigate. Whether it’s frustration, disappointment, or simply having one difficult moment too many, learning how to pause and reset is a valuable life skill. I Need Space by Molly Harris, beautifully illustrated by Jon Corby, takes young readers on a gentle journey that reminds us all that sometimes the healthiest thing we can do is take a step back and find a little space of our own.
Through humour, heart, and a lovable rocket ship named Rocco, this delightful picture book offers an empowering message about emotional regulation and self-awareness that children and adults alike can appreciate.
Meet Rocco: A Rocket Ship with Big Feelings
For Rocco, space is the ultimate playground. It is a place filled with adventure, excitement, and opportunities for fun. But like any playground, challenges can arise when others do not always play kindly.
Rocco does his best to stay patient with toy-stealers and line-cutters. He tries to brush off annoying behaviour and keep enjoying himself. However, when some roughhousing meteors knock him off course, his frustration reaches a boiling point.
It is a moment that many children will instantly recognize.
That feeling when one more thing goes wrong.
That feeling when patience runs out.
That feeling when emotions begin taking over.
Before Rocco completely blows a fuse, he remembers something important: sometimes the best solution is not reacting immediately. Sometimes, what we truly need is space.
A Gentle Lesson About Emotional Regulation
One of the many strengths of I Need Space is how naturally it introduces the concept of emotional regulation. Rather than telling children what they should do, the story shows them through Rocco’s experience.
Children learn that feelings such as anger, frustration, and overwhelm are normal. More importantly, they discover that taking time alone to calm down is not something to feel guilty about. It is a healthy coping strategy.
Molly Harris presents this lesson with warmth and understanding, helping young readers see that recognizing their emotions is the first step toward managing them.
In a society that often celebrates constant action, this story offers a meaningful reminder that there is power in pausing.
Bright Illustrations That Bring the Story to Life
Jon Corby’s illustrations burst with colour, personality, and imagination. The vibrant scenes of outer space create an inviting backdrop for Rocco’s emotional journey.
Young readers will enjoy exploring the playful details throughout each page, while the expressive artwork helps communicate Rocco’s feelings in a way children can easily understand.
The illustrations perfectly complement the story’s message, balancing energetic space adventures with moments of calm reflection.
Together, Harris and Corby have created a visual and emotional experience that feels both entertaining and meaningful.
Why This Story Resonated With Me
What touched me most about I Need Space was its reminder that self-awareness is a skill worth nurturing from an early age.
As adults, we often encourage children to keep trying, keep sharing, and keep participating. While these are important lessons, it is equally important to teach children that it is okay to step away when emotions become overwhelming.
Rocco’s journey demonstrates that needing space is not about isolation. It is about understanding ourselves, respecting our feelings, and returning when we are ready.
That message feels especially relevant today.
The ability to recognize when we need a moment to recharge is a gift that can support emotional wellness throughout a lifetime.
Momma Braga’s Poetic Reflection
A Little Space to Shine
When feelings race like rockets bright,
And everything feels loud in sight,
It’s okay to pause, to drift, to be,
And find a quiet place that’s free.
For even stars need room to glow,
And gentle hearts need time to grow,
Not every storm must end in fire,
Sometimes rest is what we require.
Like Rocco soaring through the skies,
We learn where true strength really lies,
Not in holding every feeling tight,
But in stepping back to make things right.
A moment’s peace, a calming space,
Can help us slow our hurried pace,
Then with a smile, renewed and wise,
We’re ready again to reach the skies.
For every child discovering their inner strength, remember this: the space you give yourself today may become the courage that helps you soar tomorrow.
The Momma Braga Verdict
I Need Space (purchase here) is a heartwarming, empowering, and refreshingly timely picture book that helps children understand an important truth: taking care of our emotions is just as important as taking care of our bodies.
Molly Harris has crafted a thoughtful story that validates children’s feelings while offering a practical coping strategy they can use in everyday life. Combined with Jon Corby’s vibrant illustrations, the result is a book that sparks meaningful conversations about emotions, personal boundaries, and self-care.
Whether read at bedtime, shared in a classroom, or enjoyed during a quiet moment together, I Need Space provides young readers with an encouraging reminder that it is okay to take a breath, recharge, and return ready to shine.
In a universe filled with noise, expectations, and busy moments, I Need Space is a gentle reminder that every child deserves the opportunity to pause, regroup, and discover that their feelings matter. Sometimes, a little space is exactly what helps us find our brightest light.
Until next time…Happy Parenting!
~ Momma Braga
*Please note that this book was provided in exchange of an honest review. All opinions expressed are our own.
