Everyone Has a Dinosaur
by Linda Ness and Cherry Muir

---

Everyone Has a Dinosaur provides a simple yet innovative science-based explanation of emotional regulation. This engaging story follows a central character who, like many children, struggles with intense emotions and everyday challenges. Guided by a wise forest owl, the concept of co-regulation unfolds, inviting readers to discover why they feel and respond the way they do. The wise owl explains that emotional struggles arise because ‘everyone has a dinosaur,’ a metaphor for the brain’s stress-response system. Children will learn that the DINOSAUR is essential for experiencing emotions and acts as a protector for safety and well-being. The reader is introduced to three key parts of our brain—the DINOSAUR, HEART, and OWL—that work together to influence thoughts and feelings, making the science behind emotions easy for children to understand and relate to. This story helps children understand how their brain, body, and heart work together, teaching them to understand their emotions, identify stressors, and notice body signals when they're feeling upset or uncomfortable. Mindful breathing is presented as the key strategy for calming the HEART, thereby creating a more optimal state for the OWL to help with thinking and learning. Everyone Has a Dinosaur offers valuable insights for both children and adults, emphasizing the important role of co-regulation in understanding and managing emotions. Be sure to check out the supporting resource, Everyone Has a Dinosaur: Guidebook, to gain a deeper understanding of the science behind the brain-body heart connection.

---

"We’ve eagerly awaited this book for its blend of scientific accuracy and child-friendly engagement. Children quickly identify with their dinosaur, find comfort in shared experiences, and feel empowered to take action." —Sheri MacLaren, Registered Psychotherapist "The message and the illustrations are spot on. Teachers and therapists will be thrilled to have this tool in their kit." —Mary Jane Lennox, Community Youth Leader, Mother, and Grandmother "My young children loved learning how the brain, body, and heart work together. This book provides an innovative way for parents, teachers, and adults to explain emotional regulation to kids." —Shannon Remers, MSc., Cognitive Neuroscience | Founder, Brain Matters KW

---

ABOUT THE CREATORS Linda Ness Linda is an educator, learning coach, leadership mentor, and registered NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback trainer, specializing in the mind-body connection and peak performance. Her extensive experience and research into brain function has inspired the creation of an innovative, simple approach to help children, youth, and adults grasp the complex concept of emotional regulation. Linda enjoys reading, nature, choral singing, and homemade apple pie. Cherry Muir As an experienced teacher in brain-based learning, Cherry eagerly embraced her co-author’s innovative model for understanding emotional regulation, applying it with children of various ages. Inspired by the positive feedback from families, Cherry combined her love for creative writing and early childhood education to co-create this compelling message for all children. Cherry enjoys music around a campfire and river walks with her dogs. Myrna McBrien Illustrating Everyone Has a Dinosaur has been a privilege for Myrna, who deeply believes in the value of the book’s message. Her illustrative talents began in 2001 with the award-winning That Chickadee Feeling by renowned author and environmentalist, Frank Glew. After a 30-year teaching career as an elementary teacher, Myrna is now a professional actor and director, engaging in theater, illustrating, and exploring nature with her family.

---

Contributors

Author

Linda Ness

Author

Cherry Muir

Illustrator

Myrna McBrien