Children's Book • Classroom Visits • Growth Resources
Helping children grow doesn't always start with another lesson.
Sometimes it starts with a story.
My Wings to Grow was written to help children recognize the strength, courage, and confidence that already lives inside them. Through books, classroom visits, and meaningful conversations, I help children discover that growth isn't about becoming someone new—it's about becoming more of who they already are.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or school leader, I hope these stories become the beginning of conversations that last long after the final page.
Published Children's Book
By Janice Russell
Perfect for grades K–5
My Wings to Grow is a beautifully illustrated story that reminds children something they often forget:They already have everything they need to grow.
Through a gentle journey of courage, self-discovery, and believing in themselves, children learn that growth doesn't happen all at once—it happens one small, brave step at a time.
Perfect for classroom read-alouds, meaningful family conversations, and quiet moments that stay with children long after the story ends.
Children will discover...🌱 Courage
🪽 Confidence
❤️ Emotional Awareness
🌿 Growth Mindset
✨ Believing In Themselves
Every author visit is designed to be more than a book reading.
Students laugh, reflect, participate, and connect the story to their own lives through meaningful conversation and age-appropriate activities. Together, we explore courage, confidence, growth, and the small choices that help us become who we're meant to be.
Whether it's a single classroom, a library, or a school-wide event, each visit is created to leave students feeling seen, inspired, and excited to keep growing.
✔️ A live, interactive reading of My Wings to Grow
✔️ Meaningful conversations that help students connect the story to their own lives
✔️ Reflection activities that reinforce courage, confidence, and growth
✔️ Practical classroom connections teachers can continue after the visit
Perfect For:
Elementary classrooms (K–5)
School assemblies
Library and literacy events
Family engagement nights
SEL and character education programs
In-Person Visits (Arizona and by request)
45–60 minutes including:
• Interactive story reading
• Student discussion
• Reflection activity
Optional Add-On
Discounted classroom book sets available for schools.
Why Invite Janice?
Students don't just hear a story—they see themselves inside it.
Every visit is designed to help children leave with greater confidence, meaningful reflection, and the belief that growth happens one brave step at a time.
With more than 15 years in education, Janice brings the classroom experience, teaching background, and heart to create a visit that's engaging for students and genuinely valuable for educators.
Whether you're planning a classroom visit, school assembly, literacy night, or family event, I'd love to help create an experience your students will remember.
Topics to discuss while reading
Emotional Regulation
Identity & Self-Awareness
Growth Mindset
Confidence & Courage
Navigating Big Feelings
My Wings to Grow aligns beautifully with SEL goals and ELA standards. Teachers are using this book as a classroom read-aloud, a writing prompt tool, and a way to create deeper conversations around identity and emotional growth.
This story opens the door for meaningful moments between parents and children. Use it as a bedtime story, a reflection tool during challenging times, or a way to help your child express and understand their feelings.
Bring My Wings to Grow into your classroom or home.