A gentle rhyming children’s story about first day nerves, courage, confidence and taking one small brave step.
Bella Bunny is excited for her first day at Bumblewood Forest School, until she reaches the big school gate and her brave thoughts begin to wobble. The building feels tall, the children seem busy, and suddenly Bella is not so sure she is ready after all.
With a little reassurance from Mum, a warm welcome from Miss Hazel Hare, and a tiny spark of Bumblewood magic, Bella learns that being brave does not mean never feeling scared. It means trying anyway, one small step at a time.
Through soft rhymes, beautiful storybook illustrations and gentle read-together prompts, Brave Little Hearts helps children explore big feelings in a safe and comforting way. It is perfect for children starting school, nursery, reception, moving to a new class, or facing any new experience that feels a little scary.
What children can learn from this story
- First-day nerves are normal
- Courage can start with one small step
- It is okay to feel unsure or worried
- Kind words and reassurance can help children feel safe
- Being brave can also mean helping someone else feel included
Set in the magical world of Bumblewood Forest, this heart-warming story gives parents, carers and teachers a gentle way to talk about confidence, separation worries, friendship and emotional resilience.
A comforting, beautifully illustrated story for little hearts learning that bravery can begin with just one small step.




