When it comes to helping children understand and navigate their emotions, picture books can be a valuable resource. These books use beautiful illustrations and simple language to educate and empower, helping children recognize feelings in a healthy way (and maybe giving some good tips for parents too!)
Please note, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases in the links below.
1. "I am Human" by Susan Verde
A beautifully illustrated book that explores themes of empathy, mindfulness, and compassion in accessible and engaging language. The book empowers children to embrace their emotions, to treat others with kindness, and to approach life with a sense of wonder and curiosity.
2. "The Color Monster" by Anna Llenas
Color Monster is all jumbled up, so his friend helps him identify and talk about each of his emotions. Available in board book (abridged version) and hardcover, this book can help kids name and understand the their own emotions.
3. "Little Big Feelings" by Deb Mills
We may be little but our feelings are BIG! Featuring breathing techniques and mantras all in simple repetitive language, this book helps kids (and grownups!) identify and understand the situations which we might feel BIG emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, happiness, love, and excitement.
4. "Margot and the Moon Landing" by AC Fitzpatrick
A story about a bright little girl who gets swept up in her thoughts (about space travel), and has trouble connecting meaningfully with those around her. By the end of the book, we see a very mad Margot be finally seen and heard by her mother. A great model to talk about frustration, anger, curiosity, sharing, and empathy.
5. "The Invisible String" by Patrice Karst
This story illustrates how we are all connected by an invisible string of love. A thoughtful resource to help kids process their fears about separation anxiety, loss, grief, or, any feeling after an angry fall out. As my daughter quotes from the book 'Because love is stronger than anger, right Mom?'.
