Waffle Can’t Decide

PreS-Gr 2–In an amusing play on words, this book’s titular character, well, waffles when it comes to making decisions. Penned by an author with a background in pediatric neuropsychology, the narrative strikes a balance between amusing and instructive as the wishy-washy waffle tries a variety of decision-making methods such as random chance, following the crowd, and asking her friends to decide for her. When none of these options are the right fit, Waffle hits upon the idea that narrowing the scope and scale of each situation can make choices less intimidating. The reassuring text explains that some decisions are big, some are small, and not every decision is permanent, encouraging readers to shed their own decision-making anxieties. Endearing illustrations brimming with personality depict characters as all different kinds of food, adding a sense of warmth and lightness to the subject matter. This book can benefit not only those who struggle to make decisions but can also be used as a springboard for discussion about approaching any kind of emotional challenge where coping strategies are needed. A detailed author’s note at the end provides parents and caregivers science-based insight into pediatric brain development and offers strategies for helping a child who deals with analysis paralysis.