How to Talk to Kids About OCD: A Parent’s Guide to Simple Conversations

The children’s book that makes explaining OCD simple for parents.

Get the book: “Sam’s Secret Life: Health Stories for Kids: OCD” on Amazon

Wondering how to talk to kids about OCD? It can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to conditions like this. Whether your child is showing repetitive behaviors or asking questions about a classmate’s habits, you need resources that make these conversations manageable.

“Sam’s Secret Life: Health Stories for Kids: OCD” by Dr. Brian Wu does exactly that.

Why This Book Works for Families

Makes OCD relatable: Sam’s story helps kids understand what OCD looks like without scary medical jargon. Dr. Wu, with his medical background, explains the condition in terms children actually understand.

Opens up conversations: Instead of waiting for a crisis, this book lets you proactively discuss mental health in a safe, story-based format. Kids connect with Sam’s character and naturally start asking questions.

Builds empathy: Perfect for children who don’t have OCD but want to understand friends or classmates who do. It teaches inclusion and kindness around mental health differences.

Ages 9-12 sweet spot: Old enough to grasp the concepts, young enough to absorb empathy lessons that stick.

What Parents Love About This Book

The biggest win? It normalizes mental health conversations. Just like we teach kids about physical health, this book makes discussing emotional wellness feel natural rather than crisis-driven.

Parents appreciate how Dr. Wu presents OCD as something manageable, not scary. Kids learn that getting help is normal and nothing to be ashamed of.

How to Use It

• Read together during calm moments – not during stressful times
• Ask open-ended questions about Sam’s experiences
• Connect to real-life situations your child might encounter
• Follow up with discussions about being a supportive friend

The Bottom Line

“Sam’s Secret Life” gives parents the language and framework needed when figuring out how to talk to kids about OCD without drama or fear. It’s less about the specific condition and more about raising emotionally intelligent kids who can navigate mental health topics with confidence.

Whether your family deals with OCD directly or you want to prepare your children to be understanding friends, this book belongs on your shelf.

Perfect for: Parents wanting to discuss mental health proactively, families dealing with OCD, kids who need help understanding classmates’ behaviors.

Available on Amazon and Kindle – a must-have for building mental health awareness in your family.

Get the book: “Sam’s Secret Life: Health Stories for Kids: OCD” on Amazon