By Rebekah Lipp and Craig Phillips Aroha’s Choice, the latest installment in the beloved Aroha’s Way series, takes tamariki on an empowering journey to understand their thoughts and the incredible concept of neural pathways. This beautifully written and illustrated story by Rebekah Lipp and Craig Phillips teaches children that thoughts are not facts—they’re just words in their heads. With this knowledge, tamariki are encouraged to reconsider which thoughts they hold onto and which they can release, creating space for positivity, self-confidence, and growth. This book is an absolute game-changer for tamariki, whānau, and classrooms, helping children understand how their minds work and how they can reframe unhelpful thinking patterns. It’s not just a story—it’s a blueprint for developing a positive mindset and building resilience. Why We Love It From the opening sentence—“Thoughts are not facts, they’re just words in your head”—Aroha’s Choice hooks readers with its accessible, empowering message. Craig Phillips’ vivid illustrations bring complex ideas to life, making neural pathways and thought patterns tangible and relatable for children. The book explains how our brains create automatic ways of thinking and behaving, and it gently guides tamariki to shift from disempowered to empowered thinking. The story aligns beautifully with the principles of growth mindset, teaching children that they have the power to rewire their brains and uncover their unique strengths. This is an invaluable resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers who want to nurture tamariki’s mental health and resilience. And we’re thrilled that Anna Mowat, a member of our Real Parents team, is featured on the back cover! What Results Have We Seen? Teachers and parents alike rave about Aroha’s Choice as an inspiring tool to support mental wellbeing. Tamariki are learning to pause, reflect on their thoughts, and consciously choose which ones to nurture. Parents report that the book sparks meaningful kōrero about self-confidence and overcoming challenges, while teachers are using it to introduce growth mindset principles in their classrooms. For older tamariki, like those in Years 6-8, this book has been a powerful lead-in to conversations about how the brain works and how to protect mental health during the critical tween and teen years. It’s incredible to see children connect with the message that they are not defined by their thoughts and that they can reframe their thinking in positive, empowering ways. As reviewed by teacher, Nat Lagah at South Makirikiri School, Rangitikei. How Can You Use It? Here are some ideas for making the most of Aroha’s Choice: Classroom Catalyst: Use the book to introduce topics like neural pathways, growth mindset, and emotional resilience. Perfect for senior primary or intermediate classrooms, it opens up deep kōrero about how our thoughts shape our behavior. Brain Boost: Read it at home to help tamariki learn about their brain, use the strategies to wind down, reflect on their day, and let go of unhelpful thoughts. This can be especially useful at bedtime. Family Kōrero: Use it as a tool to kōrero about how our brains work and and when they can be helpful with their thinking, and not-so-much! It’s a gentle way to encourage tamariki to understand how normal negative thinking can be and to share their feelings and thoughts. Why It Belongs on Your Bookshelf Aroha’s Choice is an empowering tool for tamariki to take control of their thinking and build a stronger, more positive mindset. It’s big learning, that really supports their self development and confidence - learning some adult haven’t got to yet! Get your copy today and help build a brighter, more empowered future for our tamariki!
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