books are friends, too.
a little thought/disclaimer:
As a clinician, I almost always find a little caveat I want to add to some of the pages in a kid’s book. Then I pause and remember that for kids, things can still be fairly “this or that”, so it is important to keep it simple and in their world view.
In other words, these books help create a straight forward outline to navigating a variety of social emotional components in life. They can also offer a way to practice certain types of coping strategies. Since these books speak generally, it can be helpful to follow up the reading with a reminder that you are there to listen, support and find answers to questions that may arise. Relatability can go far, too; don’t be afraid to remind yourself and whomever you are reading to that even adults need to ask a friend or family member for help when they are experiencing a tough social situation. Some additional examples of phrases you can use to start a conversation: “What is another way to say/think about this?” or “We like to use the word ____ in our home. It is okay for other people to use different words. You can always ask for help if you are not sure what someone means!”
social emotional
My Dragon Book Series
My Unicorn Book Series
Dinosaur and Friends Series
Ninja Life Hacks
These books are great at outlining the basics when it comes to emotions, coping and other social emotional dilemmas and needs.
coping skills
“Captain Snout and the Super Power Questions” -Daniel Amen
This book brings in an Anteater that eats ANTs or automatic negative thoughts. It is written by an M.D. who uses the story to teach thought reframing and provide verbiage for the types of cognitive distortions that many of us can have on any given day. These techniques are rooted in CBT, or cognitive behavioral therapy, so are focused on thoughts.
“Angry Octopus” -Lori Lite
This book follows the day in the life of an octopus with big feelings. The octopus learns and uses mindfulness techniques to feel more adaptive and present through their feelings. This one can be a little longer – if I’m working with folks with shorter focus preferences or are younger, I summarize pages or focus on the review of the mindfulness skills.
“Why Do I Feel So Worried? A Kid’s Guide to Coping with Big Emotions” – Tammi Kirkness
This is laid out like a workbook that gives options and then allows you and whomever you are reading with to explore CBT and mindfulness-based strategies to cope with worries. Many of the examples are rooted in thought reframing, using deep breaths and visualization.