In this episode of the Momalogues, Mary sits down with Christine Devane, a former elementary school teacher turned children's book author, to explore how stories help children understand who they are and how they fit into the world.

Christine shares her journey from the classroom to the page, including what inspired her beloved book Elephant Beach, and why themes like shyness, introversion, and social confidence deserve more compassion—not correction. Together, they unpack how parenting different personalities requires patience, flexibility, and a willingness to let children move at their own pace.

This episode is a must-listen for parents raising introverted kids, educators supporting diverse learners, and anyone who believes stories can be powerful tools for emotional growth.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

• Why storytelling helps children make sense of themselves

• The inspiration behind Elephant Beach

• Introversion vs. extroversion in kids

• Why shyness doesn't need to be "fixed"

• Parenting with patience and flexibility

• How a child's interests can unlock confidence

children's books, parenting, introverts, extroverts, storytelling, elephants, motherhood, teaching, children's literature, personal growth