Ben’s Puddle Brain: a River Ninja Kids Story About Motivation, Confidence, and Not Giving Up

Ben loves playing soccer with his friends — until one missed kick leaves him feeling embarrassed and unsure.Instead of trying again, Ben’s energy sinks into something the River Ninjas call Puddle Mode — when motivation disappears and everything feels heavy and stuck.Just when Ben needs help finding his spark again, the River Ninja Team arrives at his school.With calm guidance, movement, and kindness, Wise Wendy, Kind Cosmo, and Brave Bella teach Ben simple, kid-friendly tools to reconnect with his inner strength.Through the 3 Bs — Body, Breath, and Brain — and the idea of River Effort (trying the right amount for you), Ben learns that confidence does not come from being perfect or the best.It comes from showing up, staying kind, and doing your personal best.A heart-opening story for every child who has ever felt unmotivated, discouraged, or afraid of messing up.Perfect for:• Kids who feel stuck, unmotivated, or checked out• Children who quit after mistakes or feel pressure to perform• Teaching resilience, confidence, and self-belief• Social-emotional learning (SEL) at home, school, or therapy• Parents and educators who want simple tools kids actually useWhat kids learn:• That feeling “puddly” does not mean something is wrong with them• How to use movement and breathing to wake up motivation• The difference between trying too hard, not trying enough, and River Effort• How to stay kind and confident, even after mistakes• That real confidence comes from the insideWhy parents and teachers love itBen’s Puddle Brain is more than a story — it is a practical emotional toolkit for motivation and confidence.Created by Jonathan Hewitt, founder of Life Ki-do Martial Arts and Personal Development and four-time Amazon bestselling author (including The Day Stella Froze), this book gives children language, awareness, and tools they can use in real life.With warm illustrations, relatable moments, and an empowering message, Ben’s Puddle Brain helps kids rediscover their energy, confidence, and joy.A reminder every child needs:You do not have to be perfect to feel strong.Your River is always inside you.