A Bright, Playful Story About Speaking Up, Setting Boundaries, and Navigating New Friendships

Toco the toucan is excited to build the perfect treehouse: leafy, cozy, and wonderfully his. But when helpful new neighbors swoop in with big ideas of their own, Toco’s simple plans quickly turn into a towering, bouncing, many-windowed creation he barely recognizes. He wants to join in the fun, but he also wants his voice to be heard.

Told with warmth and humor, this story shows children what it feels like when friendly help becomes overwhelming and encourages them to find the courage to say what they need.

A reader’s note for adults offers guidance on talking with children about the difference between being assertive and being bossy, and why expressing your wants and needs is an important social-emotional skill.

Key Features

• Supports Healthy Communication: Helps children understand that it is okay to speak up when something does not feel right or when plans start to feel too big.
• Relatable Social Situations: Uses playful interactions and group dynamics to model cooperation, boundary setting, and navigating well-intentioned help.
• Perfect for Home or Classroom: Clear language, engaging illustrations, and a gentle tone make it an excellent read-aloud for families, teachers, counselors, and social-emotional learning settings.
• Includes Expert Guidance: Features a Reader’s Note for Parents, Caregivers, and Teachers about assertiveness, communication skills, and helping kids recognize and express their needs.
• Trusted Publisher: From Magination Press, the children's imprint of the American Psychological Association, experts in child development and emotional well-being.