Feelings can be scary, they can be confusing, they can be joyful, and they can be universal, especially for children. World Mental Health Day is the perfect time to do a mental health checkup in your child’s library. Do they have books that help them understand their emotional and mental health? Are there stories that encourage them to feel all the sensations while offering advice on how to handle the overwhelming sensations?
Children’s books about feelings and emotions are amazing resources for young and adult readers. Not only do they help raise awareness about your child’s mental health, but act as a catalyst for conversations your family can carry on off the page. When children can identify with characters, they may feel more inclined to express feelings or thoughts similar to those they too are having. Put your child’s mental health first this World Mental Health Day with this list of amazing reads, aimed at preschoolers and up.
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You are always enough: and more than I expected by Emily Ley
Through vibrant illustrations and powerful reinforcement, Emily Ley’s colorful picture book preaches “grace, not perfection,” reminding children that it’s perfectly okay to make mistakes – and neither mistakes nor our accomplishments only make us more or less worthy as a person. The title of the book lends itself as a positive affirmation that you can also repeat to your child every day.
I can do it by Inspired Inner Genius
Inside this collection are 10 inspirational stories that evoke messages of courage, strength, confidence and self-confidence. Each short story follows a different character as they learn to overcome a situation that made them feel sad, scared, or worried. Young readers learn the importance of never giving up, because why? “I can do it!”
The world needs more purple people by Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart
From actress and beloved mom Kristen Bell, comes a wellness children’s book about embracing the wacky, colorful, fun, beautiful, and unique things that make you, YOU! The little bookworms are then encouraged to discover those same wonderfully unique things about their peers. Violet people aren’t afraid to ask questions and be themselves.
I’m so glad you’re here by Liz Climo
Sometimes the kids just need a little reminder that you’re so glad they’re here. Cartoonist Liz Climo has penned an amazing picture book with adorable animal cartoons that lift kids (and adults) through the ups and downs, and all the little moments in between.
I think I can by Grace Byer
I have enough author Grace Byers is back with an affirmation book for children. Help your little one navigate the day with mantras like “My presence matters in this world” and “I know I can do anything.”
The Worrysaurus by Rachel Bright
Nothing ruins a fun day of plans like the flutter of a butterfly deep in your belly, and Worrysaurus knows that feeling of anxiety all too well. Help this anxious little dinosaur learn to fight his fears and worries, so he can have the best day of his life!
Marcy has all the feelings by Allison Edwards
Sad, happy, angry, confused, jealous, embarrassed, excited… there are so many feelings in the world, what is a person supposed to do with each one? Allison Edwards, a licensed professional counselor and author, helps children understand that their feelings don’t have to challenge them as a person or their actions. In fact, feelings can be quite powerful if you know how to use them wisely.
The Magic Encore by Angela DiTerl
This colorful children’s book is designed to help children find the right perspective and discover the positive. on I Can’t Write My ABC — Again! I can’t write a bike — Again! I can’t reach the pull-up bar — Again! We are all constantly learning and growing, think of all the exciting things that are Again come!
How to train your pet’s brain by Nelly Buchet
Just like pets, our brains need training and lots of attention. In this book, children learn to love and feed their brains (feel all the sensations!) and helpful tips for staying calm.
Courage every day by Trudy Ludwig
Camila would rather stay home under the covers than take a school trip to the aquarium. While trying to install her own butterflies, Camila comes across an anxious classmate. When they ask for help, Camila digs deep to put her fears behind her and be the calming voice she and her classmate need.
a blue day by Rachel Tomlinson
Written by psychologist and author Rachel Tomlinson, a blue day explores the ways depression can feel in the body and how, as parents and siblings, we can support our younger loved ones. It’s easy to forget, but as Tomlinson reminds readers: listening is a very powerful tool.
my monster and me by Nadiya Hussain
As an anxious person, author Nadiya Hussain is here to help parents help their children (it’s teamwork!) drive away the worried monsters. This lively book is a launchpad for a larger conversation about the things that make us feel worried and anxious and how you, as a family, can find ways to deal with these worried monsters.