Hands Are Not for Hitting - (Best Behavior) by Martine Agassi

About the Book

This fresh edition of a Free Spirit classic presents charming new illustrations along with the familiar encouraging message of the original. Children learn that violence is never okay and that they can manage their anger. Full color.

Book Synopsis

Help kids understand their big emotions and respond without hitting

Strong feelings are okay--but hitting is not. In Hands Are Not for Hitting, children learn that hands do lots of wonderful things, like playing and helping out. Sometimes hands feel like hitting too. Through simple language and warm, engaging illustrations, this book teaches children that they can choose to respond with words instead. This supportive book shows kids ages 4-7 how to pause, identify their feelings, and use words to set boundaries or ask for help. With simple text and bright, inclusive illustrations, this book empowers children to manage their emotions, so everyone stays safe.

Part of the award-winning Best Behavior(R) series, this paperback edition helps children learn about their emotions and develop behavior skills they can carry with them for life.

• Gives children tools for responding nonviolently when they feel upset
• Encourages kids to appreciate the many wonderful things hands do for us
• Uses relatable, inclusive illustrations to show kids in everyday situations
• Expands on the themes in the board book with the same title

Hands Are Not for Hitting is a helpful resource for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to address violent acting out. The book can be read during emotional moments or as part of everyday routines, opening conversations and supporting children in building positive responses to their feelings. A special section for adults offers practical strategies for guiding kids toward self-awareness and setting boundaries without resorting to hitting. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

Review Quotes

"Offers youngsters an alternative to hitting and other forms of hurtful behavior, guiding them to a more peaceful and positive outcome in their dealings with other children."-- "School Library Journal"

"Highly recommended...ideal 'read aloud' book for parents and care givers."-- "Midwest Book Review"

"This is a great book to have in your personal collection whether you are a parent, teacher, or caregiver, and an excellent resource to refer to whenever your children or students need a reminder about calm and peaceful hands."-- "Chasing Supermom blog"

"Imagine raising your kids without the help of Goodnight Moon or Is Your Mama a Llama? or Hands Are Not for Hitting."--Jennifer Garner, actress, Save the Children ambassador

"The simple but important message...helps children understand that they have the power to choose not to hurt people."-- "Teaching Tolerance"

Midwest Independent Publisher Award

Parent Council(R) Selection

Parents' Choice Approved

About the Author

Martine Agassi, Ph.D., is a clinical therapist with extensive experience as a behavioral consultant, counseling children and families in schools, residential facilities, foster care, and private practice.

She has led workshops and group counseling in communication skills, parenting, drug and child abuse prevention, divorce, and self-esteem.

Martine, her husband, and their daughter live in Fallbrook, California, with their dog Toby.

Marieka Heinlen received her BFA at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and also studied at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London.

She launched her career as an award-winning children's book illustrator with Hands Are Not for Hitting and has illustrated all of the books in the Best Behavior(R) and Toddler Tools(R) series. Marieka focuses her work on books and other materials for children, teens, parents, and teachers.

She lives in St. Paul, Minnesota, with her husband, son, and daughter.