Kids books about mental health. Read alouds to teach kids about mental health.

Reading books about mental health is crucial for kids as it serves multiple significant purposes in their emotional development. Firstly, these books provide a safe and approachable platform for children to learn about complex feelings and experiences that they might be encountering but find challenging to express. By encountering characters who struggle with issues like anxiety, sadness, or trauma, young readers can gain empathy, understanding, and a sense of normalization about their own emotions. Secondly, these books offer valuable tools, coping mechanisms, and language that enable children to articulate their feelings better. They provide a framework for discussions, allowing kids to ask questions, seek guidance, and develop strategies to manage their emotions effectively. Thirdly, reading such books fosters a supportive environment where children feel validated, understood, and less alone in their struggles, reducing the stigma associated with mental health challenges. Ultimately, these stories encourage emotional intelligence, resilience, and a sense of empowerment in young readers, equipping them with skills that can positively impact their well-being throughout their lives. Kids books about mental health. Read alouds to teach kids about mental health.

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"The Rabbit Listened" by Cori Doerrfeld

This picture book revolves around a young child named Taylor who experiences different emotions after facing a difficult situation. With themes of empathy, understanding, and the power of listening, it helps children understand the importance of support during times of emotional distress.

Buy a copy here: The Rabbit Listened

"The Self Love Book" by Alexandra Hoffman

The Self-Love Book inspires kids (and adults) to love ourselves exactly as we are, be proud of our uniqueness and celebrate our differences! This book celebrates diversity and inspires inclusion.

Buy a copy here: The Self Love Book

Sometimes I'm Anxious" by Poppy O'Neill

Does your son or daughter worry too much? Have frequent stomach aches? Become irritable, tearful, angry, or withdrawn? Have problems concentrating? Show a loss of enthusiasm for his or her usual interests? These are signs your child is struggling with anxiety.

Buy a copy here: Sometimes I'm Anxious

"The Self-Regulation Workbook for Kids" by Jenna Berman

The Self-Regulation Workbook for Kids allows kids to explore and express their feelings, guided by a relatable character and reinforced through interactive worksheets and proven exercises. The CBT-based activities and advice in this workbook will empower children with concrete coping skills and techniques that they can return to each and every time they start to feel upset or stressed.

Buy a copy here: The Self-Regulation Workbook for Kids

"My Strong Mind: A Story About Developing Mental Strength" by Niels van Hove

Teach your children about Mental Strength, Resilience and a Growth Mindset. With My Strong Mind your children will be introduced to mental strength and learn social skills and techniques to develop their own strong mind.

Buy a copy here: My Strong Mind

"My Friend Is Sad" (An Elephant and Piggie Book) by Mo Willems

Part of the Elephant and Piggie series, this book follows Elephant's attempts to cheer up his friend Piggie, who is feeling sad. Through humor and relatable situations, the book addresses feelings of sadness and the significance of empathy in supporting friends through tough times.

Buy a copy here: My Friend is Sad

"The Invisible String" by Patrice Karst

In this heartwarming book, two siblings learn that love is like an invisible string that connects people, even when they are apart. It's a comforting story that can help children understand the enduring nature of love, even after loss.

Buy a copy here: The Invisiable String

"Wilma Jean the Worry Machine" by Julia Cook

Wilma Jean experiences worry more than most kids. This story follows her journey in dealing with excessive worry and anxiety by learning coping strategies, making it a helpful resource for kids dealing with similar emotions.

Buy a copy here: Wilma Jean the Worry Machine

"A Terrible Thing Happened" by Margaret M. Holmes

This book sensitively explores the impact of trauma on a young raccoon named Sherman. It helps children understand and cope with trauma, providing a framework for discussing difficult experiences and the emotions that come with them.

Buy a copy here: A Terrible Thing Happened

"Listening to my body" by Gabi Garcia

Listening to My Body is an engaging and interactive book that guides children through the process of naming their emotions and the physical sensations accompanying them. Teaching kids to tune into their bodies and name their feelings is a foundation for emotional regulation.

Buy a copy here: Listening to my Body

"What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Anxiety" by Dawn Huebner

Geared towards slightly older children, this interactive workbook uses cognitive-behavioral techniques to help kids manage anxiety. It provides practical strategies and exercises for children to understand and cope with their worries.

Buy a copy here: What to Do When You Worry Too Much

These books provide valuable insights and tools for children to understand and cope with various mental health challenges in an age-appropriate and relatable manner.