What if the most important thing you could "be" wasn't a job at all? Every child is asked the same big question: "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Usually, the answers are simple: a doctor, an astronaut, or a chef. In this heartwarming, imaginative story, one little boy dreams of various exciting careers. Along the way, his parents share a life-changing message: your worth isn't defined by what you do, but by who you are.
Through gentle rhymes and vibrant illustrations, 'When I grow up, what will I be?' shifts the conversation from success to character. It focuses on "who you are" over "what you do" and serves as a gentle reminder that your worth does not come from a uniform or a paycheck...but instead comes from being true to yourself practicing kindness, and finding happiness in your own heart.
Because the most important thing you can ever "be" is true to yourself and HAPPY. No matter what job your little one decides to pursue, this book is a gentle reminder: they are capable, they are loved, and they are already enough.
WHY PARENTS AND EDUCATORS LOVE THIS BOOK:
- Builds emotional intelligence and inner confidence: moves the focus from achievement to authenticity.
- Perfect for families and educators who value social-emotional learning, growth mindset, and emotional intelligence.
- This story helps relieve the pressure children often feel to "perform" for adult expectations.
- Encourages children to value empathy, curiosity, and internal happiness over external status or titles.
- A keepsake to treasure for years: give the gift of encouragement and the reminder of unconditional love.
- This book is designed to grow with your child. It includes a dedicated space for a handwritten note, a place to document your child's dreams and what character trait you love about them year after year, and a message of unconditional love they can return to again and again.
- Perfect for keepsakes, preschool graduation, kindergarten graduation, back-to-school, baby shower gifts, and birthday milestones.
- Perfect for bedtime bonding (with a multi-sensory experience): includes the beautiful lyrics to the lullaby "Sweet Dreams, Little Snowflake" by Grace & Alex Fincher / FOXRUN.
- Families can listen along on Spotify for a calming, connected nighttime routine.
- Great fit for classroom libraries: large print book, perfect for Pre-K-2nd grade, SEL themes (self-identity, self-worth, emotional intelligence), includes accompanying printable discussion guide.
- Melodic rhyming journey and hand-illustrated art: a soothing, rhythmic read-aloud that encourages learning to read paired with vibrant, hand-drawn illustrations.
When I grow up, what will I be? is just the beginning of our journey. Moonbeam Learning Studio is excited to announce two upcoming titles in this series that once released will continue to explore character, belonging, and the magic of being yourself:
- Book 1: What will I be? - The magic of being yourself.
- Book 2: Who will I be? - A celebration of character and soul.
- Book 3: Where will I be? - A journey of belonging.
Teichen, Laura: - Laura Teichen is a children's author and illustrator who creates gentle, emotionally supportive stories that help young readers feel seen, safe, and deeply loved. She writes with a focus on curiosity, confidence, and connection; inviting children to explore their inner world with warmth and wonder. Her husband, Alex, is her biggest supporter and helps brainstorm ideas and refine each story.Laura is the founder of Moonbeam Learning Studio LLC, where she develops children's books, homeschool curricula, and educational media that nurture self-worth and joyful learning.
