(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — May 1, 2025) National statistics reveal 40% of parents are worried about their child’s mental health. In addition, 1 in 5 children has a diagnosable mental health condition, but only half get proper care [source].
Priority Health, a nationally recognized nonprofit health plan serving more than 1.3 million members, has published an engaging, educational children's book, aimed at building mental resilience and offering practical tools for school-aged kids. A free, digital version of the “Frida's Fireworks” is available here.
The book, “Frida’s Fireworks,” is printed in both English and Spanish and is co-authored by mental health experts Charletta Dennis, MD, medical director of behavioral health at Priority Health, and Dr. Nikki Brown, executive director of Canines for Change, a nonprofit organization that trains service and facility dogs. Illustrations are by children’s book illustrator, Amelina Jones.
The story follows Frida, a smart and creative 5-year-old, as she navigates intense emotions, like nervousness and fear, on her first day of kindergarten. She discovers self-regulation through her friendship with her furry friend, Scout, a facility dog at her elementary school that helps students feel calm and less alone. The story highlights the “1-2-3 technique” of focusing on senses to calm anxiety or stress.
“Frida’s story is relatable for kids, parents and educators,” said Dennis. “By providing relatable stories and practical tips, our goal with this book is to foster a supportive environment where children feel comfortable discussing their mental health. Access to quality education and reading materials can all provide opportunities for people to shift their socioeconomic status, reducing the likelihood of these negative health outcomes in return. At Priority Health, it’s our responsibility to not only support our members but think of creative ways to support our communities and neighbors."
The dog in the book is inspired by a real working facility dog named Scout, a Priority Pup serving at Muskegon Public Schools. A signature program of Priority Health for Good, Priority Pups® places highly trained facility dogs in schools as a tool to reduce anxiety and stress for kids so they can better focus on learning. The program is in partnership with nonprofit Canines for Change.
“As a school psychologist and with 20 years of dog training experience, I am excited to be part of ‘Frida’s Fireworks.’ This book combines engaging stories with practical advice to help children understand and manage their big emotions,” said Brown. “By incorporating lessons from both psychology and canine-assisted interventions, we aim to create a supportive and nurturing environment for young readers. Our goal is to empower children with the tools they need to build emotional resilience and well-being from an early age."
More than three thousand books will be distributed through community partnerships throughout Michigan this year. Readers can learn more about students impacted by the Priority Pups® program, the “1-2-3 technique” utilized in the book and other mental health supports at priorityhealth.com/prioritypups.
View the 2024 Community Impact Report to see how Priority Health is making an impact across Michigan.
Our members are at the heart of everything we do. With more than 30 years in business, Priority Health is the second-largest health plan in Michigan and the third-largest provider-sponsored health plan in the nation, offering an extensive portfolio of health benefits options for employer groups and individuals, including Medicare and Medicaid plans. Serving more than 1.3 million members each year in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio, Priority Health offers a broad network of primary care physicians. Priority Health continues to be recognized as a leader for quality, customer service, transparency and product innovation. Learn more about affordable, quality health coverage options from Priority Health.