What to Do When Your Brain Gets Stuck

Can kids learn to outsmart OCD? Yes—and this workbook shows them how! 

Sometimes the brain gets stuck—repeating thoughts or rituals that feel impossible to stop. For kids with OCD, these patterns can take over daily life. But with the right tools, they can learn to break free and feel in charge again. 

What to Do When Your Brain Gets Stuck is an empowering guide that helps kids understand obsessive-compulsive disorder and discover practical ways to manage it. Through engaging stories, fun activities, and step-by-step strategies, this interactive workbook teaches kids how to challenge OCD’s tricks and build confidence in their ability to cope. 

Whether your child struggles with repetitive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, or both, this book offers a clear, compassionate path toward feeling stronger, calmer, and more in control. 

Key features: 

• perfect for kids ages 6–12 who experience obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors 
• uses proven cognitive-behavioral techniques to help kids break free from OCD patterns 
• includes hands-on exercises and creative activities to make learning engaging and effective 
• features a supportive introduction for parents and caregivers to guide kids through the process  
• part of the trusted What-to-Do Guides for Kids series—used by parents, educators, and therapists for over 20 years 
• award-winning resource—Recipient of the Gold NAPPA Award (National Parenting Publications Awards) and Moonbeam Silver Children’s Book Award for Activity Books 
• created by Magination Press, the children’s imprint of APA—leaders in children’s mental health and well-being 

Dawn Huebner, PhD, is a clinical psychologist in Exeter, New Hampshire, specializing in the treatment of children and their parents.

The whimsical art of Bonnie Matthews appears in many children's books and magazines. She lives in Baltimore.

• A Gold NAPPA (National Parenting Publications Awards) Winner!
• Moonbeam Children's Book Award for Activity Books (Silver)

This is a great book that will motivate and educate.
—Portland Book Review

Dr. Huebner tackles OCD in a way that is comprehensive, developmentally appropriate, and fun. This guide is an invaluable tool to demystify OCD and help children heal.
—Michelle Saidel, MD, clinical instructor of psychiatry, Harvard Medical School