The Magic Of Children's Books For Adults

There's all kinds of research on why this works. If you can, Google it. I’m here to tell you how, not why.

A very phenomenal thing happens when you give an adult a children's book. They travel back in time to wherever the book lands in their childhood. 

(Time traveling is a thing. Time bending is a thing. It's actually one of my superpowers, but more on that another time.)

They will reveal pieces of themselves. It's a gold mine of who they are in the world. Of what's important to them. It's a gold mine of their mindset. As a coach and a consultant, getting a peek into your client's mindset and into what’s important to them is invaluable. Although there are all kinds of ways to do that, children's books are one of my favorites.

For one thing, it's super cost-effective. I mean, you could spend 12 bucks and crack open this window. 

From the simplest paperback, bendable book to a really beautiful hardcover book that comes with a stuffed animal. Adults love the stuffed animal! Even if they hold on to it for a day and then give it to their child, grandchild, or their best friend; they'll never forget this cute little fluffy stuffed toy that you gave them.

I can't believe I have to say this, but NEVER give your client a book that you haven't read. Read it. 

Think of your client as you read the book and note a page that made you think of them and why. You can use a bookmark or a cute Post-it note and put them on a page or two (or as many as you want) that make you think of them and tell them why. “Oh my, I was reading this book. I thought of you and this is why.” So then they're reading the book, they're time traveling, AND they are feeling deeply seen and heard. You're also cracking them open. 

You can also simply read them the book old school. Hold up the book and read it. Virtually or in-person, it works great either way. And then ask them to give me their insights. You can also use a document camera to literally read your client the book and then send it to them.

Pro-Tip:

If you want to supercharge the child's book, there needs to be a connection. The best, most astonishing gifts are only as good as the story – the golden thread that's attached to them.

Golden Thread:

Create shared experiences by opening a children’s book together, reading it together, and sharing your interpretations.