Jessica Speer is an award-winning author of books for kids and teens. Blending social science, stories, and fun activities, her writing and presentations explore tricky stuff that surfaces during childhood and adolescence. She has a master’s degree in social sciences and is completing a second master’s degree in mental health counseling.
The Phone Book
Book Summary: Packed with techy tidbits and stories, this book explores healthy phone habits and how to stay safe online. Plus, secret codes reveal the power of your phone and ways to wield it as a force for good.
- 2023-2026 Librarian Favorites Award Winner
- 2025 Moonbeam Book Award Silver Medalist
- 2025 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Winner
Middle School – Safety Goggles Advised
Book Summary: There are cool things about middle school, like more independence and new friends. But there’s baffling stuff too, like the whole “popularity” thing, and, of course, gossip and drama. With fun illustrations and choose-your-own-adventure-style scenarios, this book helps you deal with it all and define who you are when things get weird.
- 2023 Colorado Book Award Finalist
- 2023 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Winner
BFF or NRF (Not Really Friends)?
A Girls Guide to Happy Friendships
Book Summary: Packed with fun quizzes, illustrations, and stories about girls just like you, BFF or NRF (Not Really Friends)? A Girls Guide to Happy Friendships is the ultimate guidebook to help readers learn the ins and outs of friendship. Explore topics such as gossip, drama, and feeling left out, along with ways to strengthen the friendships that mean the most to you.
- 2022 Kids Book Choice Award Finalist
- 2021 Royal Dragonfly Book Award Winner
100 First Words for Little Coloradans
Book Summary: Forget apple and dog—little Coloradans are ready to move from ABC to SUP and other Colorado-specific words like granola, crampons, and Casa Bonita (if you know, you know). Packed with hilarious illustrations and 100 words every Colorado-dwelling baby should know, 100 First Words for Little Coloradans is the perfect board book for families who call the Centennial State home.
Jessica Speer’s Latest Blog Posts
Understanding Co-Regulation: A Guide for Caregivers
The article emphasizes the importance of co-regulation between adults and children in managing emotions and fostering healthy development. It outlines strategies for caregivers to support children through difficult emotional moments by modeling regulation, validating feelings, and providing choices. Successful co-regulation promotes children’s resilience and self-regulation skills.
3 Steps Before Giving Your Child a Phone
What is the appropriate age to give your child a phone? Are there steps you should take before this milestone? What rules should be in place for your child’s first phone? Parents today face these tough questions and more. This post shares three things you can do to help your child and your family prepare…
5 Steps to Start a Friendship Group for Kids
My first book, BFF or NRF (Not Really Friends), grew out of a kids’ friendship program I ran in schools with small groups of students. Participants gained social awareness and skills alongside their peers through activities and conversations in a fun, supportive environment. These friendship groups typically met weekly for six to eight weeks. It’s…