The Mystery of the Angry Moment
About this book
“This story was created to help children feel that feelings can be talked about, thought about, and shared with someone safe. Feelings often don’t arrive with clear explanations, and sometimes we never fully know why they show up the way they do. What matters most is having the chance to explore them together, with warmth and curiosity rather than fear or shame.
The approach draws on Dyadic Developmental Practice (DDP), especially the idea that it can feel easier for a child to think about motives and intentions at a distance. Hearing characters wonder—with compassion and curiosity—about what might be going on for themselves, or others, can open the door to a child beginning to do the same.
Children often feel shame about what happens when they get angry or overwhelmed. This story offers the opportunity to watch from the sidelines as someone else navigates similar moments. In that space, they may begin to imagine that their own feelings could be understood too, and that trusted adults can stay close even when emotions feel big.”
Helen Kirkaldie
Foreword
“This is a beautifully compassionate and trauma informed story that I value greatly. As a clinical psychologist and supervisor of Dr Helen Kirkaldie’s DDP practice, I see this as a book that will be genuinely helpful for parents and carers supporting children who have experienced relational trauma, as well as for professionals working alongside families…
Overall, this is a thoughtful and compassionate story that brings DDP principles to life in a way that feels warm, hopeful, and deeply respectful of children’s needs. I would highly recommend it to parents, carers, and professionals alike. Parents who are feeling worried, stuck, or unsure about their child’s behaviour will find this book reassuring, validating, and full of understanding”.
Dr Vicky Sutton
Consultant Clinical Psychologist
DDP Practitioner, Consultant and Trainer
© Dr. Helen Kirkaldie, 2026. Illustrated by Chloe Kirkdale
