Why Stretching Our Hearts Belongs on Your Holiday Gift List

As the holiday season unfolds — mugs of cocoa, soft blankets, candlelight, and the quiet magic of family togetherness — it’s the perfect time to slow down, connect, and reflect on what matters most. That’s exactly the spirit behind the 2025 Holiday Gift Guide from Modern Parenthood Journal. Modern Parenthood Journal

I’m thrilled that Stretching Our Hearts: A Giraffe Families Story is included among the meaningful gifts curated in their guide. It’s an honor to be part of a collection of thoughtfully chosen items — and I believe this book can offer something special to your family this season and beyond.

What Makes Stretching Our Hearts Unique

• A story rooted in empathy, connection, and family values. As a doula and newborn-care specialist, I’ve seen how stories shape little hearts — helping babies and children feel seen, safe, and loved. Stretching Our Hearts reflects that.

• A perfect read-aloud for family bonding. Holiday mornings or quiet evenings by the tree — this book invites parents and children into the same cozy moment. Reading together goes beyond bedtime; it’s about building belonging and intentional connection.

• Encourages emotional awareness and compassion. Stories like this foster empathy and kindness — qualities that become the foundation of strong children, and strong families. In a world where difference and diversity matter more than ever, picture books like this one help shape young hearts. Doing Good Together™+2Reedsy+2

  
  

Why It’s a Great Holiday Gift — Not Just for Kids

Giving Stretching Our Hearts isn't just about gifting a book. It’s about offering a space — a shared moment of calm, closeness, and reflection. It’s a gift for the child and the parent — inviting both to slow down, connect, and remember that family means more than routines; it means love, belonging, and shared stories.

For new parents, grandparents, godparents, or adoptive families — anyone welcoming a child into their hearts and home — this book holds a gentle, meaningful message.

A Gentle Nudge for Gifting with Intention

As editor of your newborn care guide and supporter of families during postpartum and beyond, I know how magical childhood is. I also know how fast it flies by. The holidays are a perfect reminder to pause, appreciate, and create memories — and what better way than with a book that holds warmth, heart, and love?

If you’re looking for a holiday gift that will grow with a child, one that can be read again and again — aloud as they learn, silently as they dream — Stretching Our Hearts is that gift.

How to Get a Copy

Head over to my website, in the “Shop” section, or simply reply to this post to request a copy (or a handful for gifting to friends or family). And if you’d like, I’d be honored to sign a copy for you to add that little extra touch of love and intention this holiday season!

Thank you for supporting my work, and for believing in the power of story — families, after all, are built on them.

Wishing you a holiday filled with warmth, connection, and many beautiful shared moments,

Allison🦒