Babs Costello Discusses New Children's Book

Good Morning America
Good Morning AmericaApr 7, 2026

Why It Matters

The book demonstrates how influencer branding can translate into profitable, purpose‑driven publishing, offering parents a trusted resource for teaching emotional intelligence to young children.

Key Takeaways

  • Babs Costello releases children’s book “Did Your Mother Ever Tell You?”
  • Book adapts familiar sayings into kid‑friendly life lessons
  • Emphasizes acknowledging children’s feelings and practicing patience
  • Family collaboration: grandchildren and illustrator shaped the book’s visuals
  • Promotion includes live reading and free copies for studio audience

Summary

Good Morning America welcomed internet‑favorite grandma Babs Costello to unveil her first children’s picture book, “Did Your Mother Ever Tell You?” The title riffs on her viral catchphrase, turning a familiar adult meme into a warm, family‑oriented story aimed at preschoolers.

Costello, a former preschool teacher of more than two decades, explained that the book repurposes classic idioms—like “hold your horses”—into playful scenarios that validate a child’s emotions and teach patience. Illustrated by Marggo Lucas, the pages feature whimsical animals, including yoga‑doing horses, that help kids visualize feelings and the value of waiting.

During the segment, Costello’s own grandchildren offered feedback on the artwork, insisting on bigger animals, while a live reading sparked enthusiastic participation from studio kids. Memorable lines such as “Let the children be children” and “Your feelings count” underscored the book’s core message of emotional acknowledgment.

The launch illustrates how a social‑media personality can leverage an established online brand to enter the children’s publishing market, providing parents with a relatable tool for early emotional education while expanding Costello’s commercial footprint beyond digital platforms.

Original Description

The author, known as the internet's favorite grandma, discusses her new book, "Did Your Mother Ever Tell You?" about love, support and encouragement.
SIGN UP to get the daily GMA Wake-Up Newsletter:
To read the full story and others, visit http://www.goodmorningamerica.com
FOLLOW:
Watch full episodes of GMA: https://abcnews.link/8SAXtIX
Watch full episodes of GMA3: https://abcnews.link/8aZfnmd
Watch full episodes of GMA First Look: https://abcnews.link/LxV2S7H

Comments

Want to join the conversation?

Loading comments...