Social-emotional learning is crucial for well-being, from forming solid relationships and self-esteem to decision making and beyond. When it comes to recognizing the importance of mental health, we as adults have taken a huge step in the right direction, from mindfulness to meditation. So, how can we help our kids learn positive ways of managing their experiences and expressing their emotions? Read on for our list of favorite books to help kids (and parents) with social-emotional learning!
Mel Fell, by Corey R. Tabor
Mel Fell is a charming and innovative read about a scrappy little bird, from the award-winning author-illustrator of Fox the Tiger. Turn this book sideways and upside down to follow Mel on her journey from downward fall to triumphant flight in this tale of self-confidence and taking a leap of faith. Mel's unwavering spirit encourages kids to feel brave and go for it, eventually soaring—even if they fall down first.
Find it here, $17.99
We Want Names, Too! by Jean Leroy
Each finger has it's very own name like thumb and index, but the poor toes don't! The big toe wants to be called A, but not everyone agrees with the alphabet theme. The second toe argues they should go for numbers, while the last toe prefers fruits! How on earth will they resolve their disagreement? By working together, listening to one another and compromising, of course! In this imaginative and colorful board book, kids will learn how to celebrate their uniqueness all while learning about concepts like letters, numbers, music notes, colors, and fruits.
Find it here, $7.19
Sunny-Side Up, by Jacky Davis
Father-daughter time shines in this irresistible story about creativity, solving problems and looking on the bright side when faced with obstacles. An expressive picture book about resilience and the power of imagination, it's a perfect read-aloud for rainy days...or any day you’re stuck at home!
With breakfast finished, an energetic young girl is ready to play. But it’s raining, and Dad says that she must stay inside. So, she crafts and she builds, she draws and she bakes. What else can she do to find the sunny side of a rainy day?
This book brilliantly encourages kids to use creativity to overcome challenges, keeping the gloomies at bay, any day!
Find it here, $17.99
Puppy in My Head, by Elise Gravel
Kids experience anxiety and can feel overwhelmed just like we do. This colorful picture book serves as both a story and a step-by-step guide to help kids help themselves. Ollie is the puppy living inside of the narrator's head, and when Ollie panics or is too energetic, the narrator feels that way, too! Our hero learns to handle the situation with her breath and her mindfulness, and by talking it out with an adult. Puppy in My Head is a compassionate book that will leave young readers a little more well-equipped to handle the puppies in their own heads.
Find it here, $14.39
