Psychologist Inspires Children’s Emotional Growth and Connection to Nature

You Are More Than: A Primer for Finding Light in Your Heart by Dr. Amy L. Stark, Ph.D

A clinical psychologist with experience in treating children, Dr. Amy L. Stark, Ph.D is also no stranger to writing for a younger audience. Her previous titles, Whole Heart for Girls and Whole Heart For Boys, both encourage readers to self-improve by working through difficult emotions and developing self-assurance. Now, Dr. Stark turns that energy to picture books and shows young readers how they can reflect on themselves, find purpose in the world around them, and be of service to their community.

Filled with positive affirmations and wise guidance, You Are More Than: A Primer for Finding Light in Your Heart shows children that peer pressure and societal expectations about who they should be pale in comparison to what truly makes someone who they are. The book encourages everyone to look outside themselves entirely — whether it’s to express their love for others, work to improve the community or simply appreciate the natural world.

We spoke with Dr. Stark about the inspiration behind her newest book, how small acts can make a difference, and the importance of connection.

Q: What first inspired you to write You Are More Than?

I think we all spend too much time and emphasis on what we have, where we live and what we do. External things do not lead to satisfaction and overall happiness. We forget to look inside ourselves, as we’re too caught up in schedules and social media. 

It’s important to teach our children, and remind ourselves, that we have something to contribute to our families and the lives of others around us. Once we become more aware, or reminded to be more aware, we can think about how our skills and talents could be used wherever we go and whatever we do – including work, school, or any activities we participate in. 

I wrote this book not only to encourage parents to teach these concepts to their children, but also to remind themselves so they might do a few things differently in their lives as well. It’s meant to inspire.

Q:  How did your experience in child psychology influence the story you wanted to write?

I have noticed during and since the pandemic with gaming and electronics, everyone is more disconnected from not only their friends but also nature. Many kids do not go outside, ride their bike, play with the neighborhood kids, and have social activities. They game and text, but do not go outside. 

They have forgotten to go outside, take a look at the world around them and really connect. All my client sessions start outside. We look at the butterfly habitat in the yard outside my office, checking in on the bluebirds who nest here, noticing the weather and nature all around. 

In my practice, I meet with kids of all ages and realize this is needed. When I watch families at restaurants or at my office, they often are all on devices and they miss the opportunity to emotionally connect with friends and family in a direct way. We need to put down our devices and really notice what is going on outside us and with our families and friends. 

Q: You Are More Than explains with clear examples “who you are is more than what you see on the outside,” and inspires young readers to find purpose and a chance to be of service. Just how important are these types of affirmations for kids’ emotional growth?

When we raise kids who understand they can make a difference by doing something they believe in, we make a better place for all of us. Making a difference can be small:  saying good morning to a neighbor or friend at school, picking up trash in a park to leave it better than we found it, offering to help someone in our families and in our life who might need help. What makes our planet better is really connecting with others, finding a way to make a difference, and knowing our small contribution is important.  

Q: This isn’t your first time writing a book for young audiences. How was this project different from your other Whole Heart series?

You Are More Than explores a child’s outside world and their relationship to it. I wrote the Whole Heart Series to be introspective and help kids with self-esteem. I wanted kids to know they are loveable just being who they are. They do not need to prove it, and no one can take it away from them. They can make a mistake and they are still loveable. They can have a problem with a friend and are still loveable. They do not need to be perfect to be loveable, they can practice improving, not practice being loved. They are born loveable.

Q: What do you hope You Are More Than inspires in readers?

I hope it inspires people of all ages to connect with the world around them, to reach out to others and feel the joy of making a difference in their everyday lives.  

Q:  Is there anything you can share with us about your next project?

 I am currently revising my Whole Heart For Girls self-esteem book. I also have a magic of nature book in mind. Stay tuned.