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Bodies, Books & Brilliant Routines with Dr Emily
Primary Times caught up with NHS doctor, author and children’s health advocate, Dr Emily MacDonagh…
Ahead of the new school year, Dr Emily launches her brand-new children’s title for curious minds aged 3 and up, Incredible Things Your Body Can Do! A fun and accessible first look at human anatomy, Dr Emily shares her thoughts on the exciting release, as well as her top daily habits and back-to-school tips for parents this September.
Are there any health concerns, primary-aged children that parents should be more aware of?
One thing that’s definitely on the rise is how much time kids are spending on screens. I recommend learning more and more about how screen time is detrimental, not only in terms of access in front of a screen, but also the time spent on social media. I encourage that kids have some screen-free time each day.
Any tips for keeping family routines realistic but balanced?
Keeping things simple and steady is key. We try to have a “winds down” time that allows everyone to feel more settled, connected, and predictable. Consistency is really important.
Many children feel anxious about going back to school. What advice would you give to parents?
I even know that I totally okay to feel nervous after a long break! I think it’s particularly nerve-racking when kids have a big milestone to face, like moving up to a new school year (and my daughter Millie is 11). I try to gently ease back into school routines before term starts. Reassuring them, sharing our own stories, and keeping mornings as calm and smooth as possible can help.
How can families support mental wellbeing at home?
Make space for real connection. Even just 10–15 minutes a day with no phones or distractions, just listening is so important to make children feel heard. Simple things like talking about feelings and how it’s okay to have tough days really supports emotional resilience. My last book Healthy Mind, Happy You! is great for reading together and sparking conversations about feelings.
Did you have fun writing Incredible Things Your Body Can Do!?
I had such a great time! It was so interesting analysing our busy bodies into something fun and engaging for children. It’s all too easy in the school setting for science to become all about facts – I wanted it to be something children enjoy and look forward to learning about every day.
What do you hope children will feel after reading the book?
I want kids to finish the book feeling proud of their bodies and full of curiosity. I want them to feel confident and excited about what their body does for them, and to feel motivated to look after it.
Can you sum up Incredible Things Your Body Can Do! in just a sentence or two?
It’s a fun and fascinating dive into how the body works, made especially for curious young minds. It’s all about celebrating just how awesome our bodies really are.
Are there any other exciting new projects coming up?
I’m working on a new book for older kids and teens that’s friendly and relatable. It’s the kind of honest, friendly manual I wish I’d had when I was younger, and I’m really looking forward to sharing it soon.
Incredible Things Your Body Can Do! by Dr Emily MacDonagh and illustrated by Chante Timothy and Sam Bradley is out now, published by Scholastic (RRP £7.99).
Photography © Holly Clarke