READ ALOUDS FOR THE FAMILY
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By: Emily Hayes
A compassionate story that reassures children that it's all right to experience and express their emotions. It addresses emotional awareness, self-acceptance, and mental health themes, emphasizing that everyone has moments when they don’t feel their best. Through gentle storytelling, it helps kids understand that it's normal to have bad days and encourages them to seek support and find healthy ways to cope. This book serves as a valuable resource to discuss mental well-being with children and promote a nurturing environment where feelings can be shared openly.
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By: Jo Witek
This boox explores the wide range of emotions children experience, from happiness to sadness, bravery to fear, and everything in between. It helps children understand and express their feelings, fostering emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Each page dives into a different emotion, described in a relatable and comforting way for young readers. This touching story is a wonderful tool to initiate conversations about emotions and encourage children to embrace and articulate their feelings.
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By: Patrice Karst
A comforting story that reassures children about the unbreakable connections between loved ones, no matter the distance. The book introduces the concept of an invisible string made of love that connects people to those they care about. This string is always there, whether they are apart or together, soothing fears of separation and helping children cope with loss, anxiety, or loneliness. Through its warm and gentle narrative, the book offers a heartfelt way to explain the enduring bond of love and the power of emotional connections.
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By: Janan Cain
An engaging book that explores a variety of emotions, helping children understand and articulate their feelings. Through vibrant illustrations and simple, rhythmic text, the book captures the essence of different emotions, such as happiness, sadness, anger, and fear. Each page offers a relatable scenario that children might encounter daily, making it easier for them to recognize and express their emotions. This is a valuable resource for discussing feelings with children, promoting emotional intelligence, and healthy expression of emotions.
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By: Britney Winn Lee
This book is relatable for a child experiencing anxiety, or extreme emotions, a child identified as a Highly Sensitive Person, or a child on the autism spectrum. Beautifully illustrated and written in rhyming verse, children and adults explore the whole spectrum of feelings and readers navigate the emotional challenges they face throughout the day. The main character has big feelings that glow from his cheeks, spill out of his eyes, and jump up and down on his chest. When he hears a joke, he bursts with joy. When a loud truck drives by, he cries. When his loved ones are having a hard day, he feels their emotions as if they were his own.
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By: Anna Llenas
A delightful book that helps children understand and manage their emotions. Through the journey of the Color Monster, who is confused and mixed up, the story uses different colors to represent different feelings: yellow for happiness, blue for sadness, red for anger, black for fear, and green for calm. Each color and emotion is explained in simple, relatable terms, making it easy for children to recognize and talk about their own feelings. This book is a wonderful tool to teach emotional awareness and regulation in a visually engaging and accessible way.
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By: Tom Percival
A gentle and insightful story about dealing with anxiety. Ruby is a happy girl until one day she discovers a worry. The worry starts off small but grows bigger and bigger, following her everywhere she goes. Ruby feels increasingly overwhelmed until she meets a boy who has a worry of his own. Through sharing their worries, they both learn that talking about their feelings makes the worries shrink. This book provides an excellent platform for children to understand that it's okay to have worries and that sharing them with someone can help. It’s a perfect resource to discuss emotional well-being and the importance of communication.
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By: Carol McCloud
A heartwarming book that teaches children about kindness, empathy, and the power of positive actions. The concept is simple yet profound: everyone carries an invisible bucket that holds their good thoughts and feelings. When you do something kind, you fill someone else's bucket as well as your own. Conversely, negative actions dip into others' buckets, taking away their happiness. This story encourages kids to be bucket-fillers, fostering an environment of respect and kindness. It’s an excellent tool to instill social-emotional learning and promote a caring community.
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By: Emily Hayes
This book reassures children that it's normal to experience a wide range of emotions. The story emphasizes that all feelings, whether happy, sad, angry, or scared, are valid and part of being human. It encourages kids to express their emotions openly and teaches them healthy ways to cope with their feelings. The book helps children understand and manage their emotions through relatable scenarios and gentle guidance, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience. This is an essential read to support children's social-emotional development.
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By: Natalia Maguire
Children experience complex emotions just like adults. Helping children identify and express their feelings in a positive manner is important for their social-emotional learning, developing empathy, and building resilience. Feelings are neither good nor bad; they simply are. Kids need words to name their feelings, just as they need words to name everything in their world.
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By: Gabi Garcia
This book encourages children to embrace challenges and understand that facing difficult situations is a natural part of life. It teaches resilience, perseverance, and the importance of a positive mindset. It empowers children to recognize their strengths, manage their emotions, and develop confidence in their ability to overcome obstacles.
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By: Alicia Ortego
The book follows the journey of the main character who discovers that kindness can be a superpower. It emphasizes the importance of being kind to others, showing empathy, and spreading positivity. Through relatable situations and engaging storytelling, the book aims to teach children valuable lessons about compassion, empathy, and the impact of their actions on others. It encourages young readers to embrace kindness as a strength and highlights the positive ripple effect it can have in their lives and communities.
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By: Kira Willey
This engaging story invites children to develop their listening skills and empathy through the example of a wise, gentle elephant. It encourages kids to be attentive to others, understand different perspectives, and respond with kindness. By promoting active listening and empathy, this book helps children build meaningful connections and cultivate a compassionate mindset.
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By: DJ Corchin
This book explores the emotions and experiences of feeling out of place or different from others. Through relatable characters and situations, the book encourages children to embrace their uniqueness and understand that it's okay to feel different. With a focus on self-acceptance, empathy, and understanding, this story helps children navigate their emotions and build self-confidence.
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By: Mary Nhin
Life is hard! And it's even harder for children who are just trying to figure things out. This is one book in a series which aims to help children learn valuable life skills. Fun, pint-size characters in comedic books easy enough for young readers, yet witty enough for adults.
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By: Jamie Lee Curtis
This book helps children understand and appreciate their shifting moods. Relatable and funny, perfect for sharing with anyone struggling with moods. it helps kids explore, identify, and, even have fun with their ever-changing moods.
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By: Jamie Lee Curtis
A fun and funny book for younger readers. It is a moving celebration of self-esteem and loving the skin you’re in. Celebrate liking yourself! A book to rejoice in and share, I'm Gonna Like Me will have kids letting off some self-esteem in no time!
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By: Patty Lovell
Molly Lou Melon is short and clumsy, has buck teeth, and has a voice that sounds like a bullfrog being squeezed by a boa constrictor. She doesn't mind. Her grandmother has always told her to walk proud, smile big, and sing loud, and she takes that advice to heart. But then Molly Lou has to start in a new school. A horrible bully picks on her on the very first day, but Molly Lou Melon knows just what to do about that.
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By: Jessica Love
On a subway ride home from the pool with his abuela, Julián is enchanted by three women dressed as mermaids. Their hair flows in vibrant colors, their dresses transform into fishtails, and their joy fills the train car. Once home, Julián can't stop thinking about them and decides to create his own mermaid costume using a butter-yellow curtain for a tail and the fronds of a potted fern for a headdress. However, he's unsure how his abuela will react to the mess and, more importantly, to his self-expression. Jessica Love’s debut as an author-illustrator is a mesmerizing and heartfelt story, celebrating self-love and individuality with radiant illustrations and a touching narrative.
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By: Munro Leaf
Ferdinand is the world's most peaceful and beloved little bull. Unlike the other bulls, who snort, leap, and butt heads, Ferdinand prefers to sit quietly and smell the flowers under his favorite cork tree. Munro Leaf's simple yet profound storytelling, combined with Robert Lawson's charming pen-and-ink drawings, makes "The Story of Ferdinand" a timeless classic. Celebrate the 75th anniversary of its original publication with this beautiful and affordable 8x8 paperback edition.
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By: Monica Brown
Marisol McDonald is a vibrant biracial girl with red hair and brown skin. She joyfully defies norms and sometimes confuses those around her with her unique combinations and confident personality. Despite not fitting into conventional expectations, Marisol embraces her individuality with confidence and charm, making her an inspiring character for readers of all ages.
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By: Matt De La Pena
Every Sunday after church, CJ and his grandma take the bus across town. Today, CJ is full of questions: Why don't they own a car like his friend Colby? Why doesn't he have an iPod like the boys on the bus? Why do they always get off in the dirty part of town? Grandma's encouraging answers help CJ see the beauty and fun in their routine and the world around them. Matt de la Peña's story, paired with Christian Robinson's vibrant illustrations, offers a touching lesson on finding joy and wonder in everyday moments.
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By: Joanna Gaines
Creativity and acceptance come together in this bright and beautiful adventure. The story follows a group of children building their own hot-air balloons, highlighting how life is more vibrant when we celebrate our differences. This picture book teaches children to embrace their strengths, work as a team, and share their talents to make the world a better place. With a focus on kindness and support, it's perfect for parents, grandparents, teachers, and librarians. The colorful adventure celebrates every child and reinforces the message that the world needs who you were made to be.
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By: Julia Cook
Louis always interrupts because he feels his thoughts are crucial. His words rumble and grumble in his tummy, wiggle on his tongue, and push on his teeth until he erupts—interrupting others. But when Louis himself experiences being interrupted, he learns the importance of waiting for his turn to talk. This empathetic story takes a witty approach to teaching children about managing their impulses to interrupt and helps children understand the value of respecting others by listening and patiently waiting for their turn to speak.
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By: Jory John and Pete Oswald
A funny and charming story that reminds us of the importance of balance, self-care, and accepting those we love (even if they are sometimes a bit rotten). The Good Egg is always doing what it should, even taking care of the other eggs who are not doing their best. However, when the Good Egg’s own shell starts to crack, it realizes that balance and self-care are more important than striving for perfection. This delightful story teaches children the importance of taking care of themselves and finding a healthy balance in life.
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By: Bob Sornson
The new kid in school starts off as quite the bully. However, when he sees how the school community stands up for each other and refuses to retaliate, he realizes his mistakes. Inspired by their kindness, he wants to become part of their caring community. This story highlights the transformative power of empathy and acceptance, teaching young readers the importance of kindness and inclusion.
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By: Alexis O'Neill
Mean Jean rules the playground with an iron fist—nobody swings, kicks, or bounces until Mean Jean does. She pushes, smooshes, and hammers anyone who crosses her path. That is, until a spirited new kid arrives at school. With irrepressible enthusiasm, the new girl befriends Mean Jean, dethroning the recess bully and transforming the playground into a place of friendship and fun. This infectious playground romp teaches children the power of kindness and inclusivity.
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By: Elizabeth Cole
In this inspiring children's book, "Little Nick Learns to Roller Skate," young Nick faces challenges while mastering roller skating but learns the power of perseverance and self-belief to overcome obstacles. This growth mindset book for kids skillfully addresses themes such as perseverance, self-control, managing emotions, and grit through relatable daily situations. The vibrant illustrations and engaging text not only promote literacy but also help children develop essential social-emotional skills. With its focus on resilience and confidence-building, this motivational picture book encourages young readers to handle life's challenges with a positive attitude while ensuring safety and understanding.
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By: Julia Cook
Louis, the main character, can't seem to sit still—accidentally kicking his friend, squirming in line, and wiggling at the movies. Everyone says he has "ants in his pants," but Louis doesn't understand until his mom explains it means he wiggles a lot. She introduces him to the Wiggle Dance, a special tool to help manage his impulses and movement. This story not only normalizes fidgety behavior but also provides practical strategies for improving impulse control in a playful and relatable way.
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By: Ellen Javernick
This book explores the consequences of individual actions. It starts with a simple scenario: dropping one soda can out the window. The book asks, what if everybody did the same? It extends this idea to breaking the rules like speaking during story time, not washing up, or splashing too much at the pool, showing how thoughtless behavior can create chaos. Conversely, it illustrates how following rules and considering the impact of our actions can contribute to making the world a better place. This child-friendly approach encourages young readers to understand the importance of responsibility and respect for rules in a playful and engaging manner.
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By: Mark Pett
This story introduces the concept of growth mindset through the story of Beatrice Bottomwell, who has never made a mistake—until one day, a huge mistake happens in front of everyone. Ideal for ages 4-8, it's praised as a teacher must-have for classrooms and offers valuable lessons about learning and growing from mistakes. Beatrice's journey teaches young readers resilience, perspective, and the importance of enjoying life—even when things don't go perfectly. This book encourages children to embrace imperfection and find joy in the learning process.
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By: Jory John
The Bad Seed is always up to no good; everyone expects it from him. But when he decides to change, he reveals his difficult past and his desire to overcome it. In this funny yet touching tale, he discovers the transformative power of will, acceptance, and being true to himself. This book teaches that positive change is possible for everyone.
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By: Angela DiTerlizzi
This introduces the concept of "Yet," a special companion that accompanies us from birth, helping us tackle challenges. Can't tie your shoes? Yet! Can't ride a bike? Yet! This book is a valuable tool for transforming negatives into positives during difficult learning moments. It encourages resilience and a growth mindset, reminding children and adults alike that we all have things we haven't learned...yet!
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By: Grace Byers
"I Am Enough" is an uplifting and empowering picture book that celebrates self-acceptance and self-worth. Through lyrical prose and beautiful illustrations, it encourages children to embrace who they are, love themselves, and appreciate their unique qualities. This book is an excellent resource to teach children about confidence, diversity, and the importance of self-love. "I Am Enough" serves as a powerful reminder that we are all worthy and deserving just as we are.
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By: Julie Gassman
This is a delightful and humorous picture book that teaches children about managing disappointment and understanding that they can't always get their way. Through engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations, it follows the experiences of a young character who learns the valuable lesson of accepting situations with a positive attitude. This book offers a fun and relatable way to help children develop patience and resilience.
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By: Trudy Ludwig
A touching and beautifully illustrated picture book that addresses themes of loneliness, kindness, and inclusion. It tells the story of Brian, a quiet boy who feels invisible and unnoticed by his classmates. When a new student arrives and befriends him, Brian begins to feel seen and valued. This book is an excellent resource for parents and educators to discuss empathy, compassion, and the importance of including everyone. "The Invisible Boy" highlights how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life.
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By: Megan Madison, Jessica Ralli and Isabel Roxas
"Yes! No!" explores the concept of consent in a fun and relatable way for young readers. The story illustrates how children can express their feelings and set boundaries in everyday situations. It emphasizes the importance of saying "yes" when they feel comfortable and "no" when they don't, empowering them to understand and communicate their preferences clearly. With a strong focus on respect, empathy, and personal agency, this book is an essential tool to initiate important conversations about body boundaries and consent, fostering healthy relationships from an early age.
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By: Marc Colagiovanni
This heartfelt and empowering book celebrates resilience and the power of choice. It encourages readers to navigate challenges with optimism and creativity. A timeless reminder of our ability to shape our own paths and find strength in adversity.
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By: Samantha Berger
A charming book that humorously explores emotions and self-regulation. Through the character of Crankenstein, the story depicts moments of frustration and crankiness that many children can relate to. It encourages young readers to recognize and manage their feelings lightheartedly and engagingly, making it a valuable tool for teaching emotional awareness and coping skills.
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By: Georgia Heard
"My Thoughts Are Clouds" is a gentle exploration of the ups and downs of emotions, illustrating how thoughts can change like the weather. The story encourages children to recognize and embrace their feelings, fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation. Visualizing thoughts as clouds teaches kids that it’s okay to have a range of emotions and that they can learn to navigate them.
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By: Elizabeth Cole
This book emphasizes the importance of understanding personal boundaries and consent. Through relatable scenarios, children learn how to recognize their own body boundaries and respect the boundaries of others. It empowers kids to communicate their feelings and assert their needs, fostering confidence and healthy relationships.
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By: Jenny Simmons
This book helps children understand the importance of setting boundaries and asserting themselves. Relatable scenarios encourage kids to express their feelings and confidently say "no" when faced with uncomfortable situations. This engaging story promotes self-advocacy, respect for personal choices, and the understanding that prioritizing their own comfort is essential.
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By: Christina Furnival
"The Not-So-Friendly Friend" explores the complexities of friendships and the importance of setting healthy boundaries. Through relatable scenarios, the story helps children recognize the signs of an unhealthy friendship and encourages them to advocate for themselves. It promotes empathy, communication skills, and the understanding that it's okay to distance themselves from friends who do not treat them with respect.
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By: Robie H. Harris
This book explores body awareness and individuality for young readers. Through playful language and colorful illustrations, it encourages children to appreciate the diversity of bodies while fostering a sense of respect for themselves and others. It invites discussions about body parts in a positive and age-appropriate manner, promoting self-acceptance and understanding of differences.
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By: Dagmar Geisler
This book empowers kids to understand their right to personal boundaries and the importance of saying no to unwanted touches. It fosters confidence and self-awareness, helping children recognize their bodies as their own. This empowering message promotes healthy self-esteem and encourages open conversations about body safety, making it an essential read.
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By: Gabi Garcia
"Listening to My Body" is a heartfelt exploration of self-awareness and emotional regulation. It encourages children to tune into their bodies and recognize how different feelings manifest physically. It empowers kids to understand their emotions and respond thoughtfully, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience. Promotes feelings and the importance of self-care in a fun, accessible way.
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By: Cara Goodwin
"What to Do When You Feel Like Hitting" is a practical guide for children navigating intense emotions, particularly anger. The book provides relatable scenarios that help kids identify their feelings and offers constructive strategies for managing those emotions without resorting to violence. Promoting empathy and self-regulation encourages children to express themselves in healthy ways.
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By: Martine Agassi
A vital resource for teaching children about appropriate behavior and the positive use of hands. It highlights how hands can be used for kindness, helping, and creativity instead of hitting. This engaging narrative fosters emotional intelligence and conflict resolution skills, encouraging a safe and respectful environment for all children.
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By: Cara Natterson
A comprehensive guide that demystifies the journey of puberty for boys. This engaging book addresses the physical and emotional changes they encounter, fostering a sense of confidence and understanding. Through relatable language and illustrations, it promotes healthy habits and encourages boys to embrace their development while empowering them to navigate challenges with resilience and openness.
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By: Jessica Blakely
An absolute must for your tween!! This empowering resource for young girls to navigate the changes of puberty. This informative guide addresses physical, emotional, and social changes while fostering body positivity and self-confidence. With practical advice and supportive insights, it encourages open conversations about growth, helping girls embrace their journey with knowledge and resilience.
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By: Carmit Rachel Swed
follows a lovable child who struggles with the idea of moving on from the joyful world of kindergarten. This engaging story captures the essence of childhood curiosity and friendship, showcasing the fun and creativity that define early learning. As the child navigates feelings about change, the narrative encourages readers to appreciate the importance of imagination and connection while addressing the natural anxiety that comes with growing up. This heartfelt tale serves as a reassuring companion for those facing new challenges ahead.
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By: Elizabeth Verdick
This is an important book for teaching children about using their teeth in positive ways. It emphasizes that teeth can be used for smiling, eating, and laughing rather than biting. The book promotes healthy social interactions, helping to create a nurturing environment for all young readers.
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By: Dagmar Geisler
An essential book that teaches children about safety and recognizing boundaries. It empowers kids to understand the importance of saying no and staying safe from potential dangers. The story encourages children to trust their instincts and reinforces the message that refusing unfamiliar requests is okay. It promotes self-confidence and awareness, making it a valuable resource for discussions about safety and personal boundaries.
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By: Patty Lovell
This beauty of a book tells the inspiring story of a brave girl who learns to advocate for herself and her friends. With her unique perspective and determination, Molly Lou faces challenges head-on, encouraging readers to find their voices and stand up for what’s right. This empowering narrative emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, resilience, and friendship, teaching children that their opinions matter and that speaking up can lead to positive change in their world. Molly Lou's journey fosters confidence and encourages young readers to embrace their individuality.
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By: Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart
A charming and insightful book that that celebrates the importance of embracing individuality and showing kindness to others. The story encourages young readers to explore curiosity, creativity, and empathy, inspiring them to become 'purple people' who make a positive difference in their communities.
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By: Thanhha Lai
A powerful, poignant story that follows a young girl's journey navigating the challenges of immigration and identity. Through heartfelt verse, it captures her struggles with adaptation, resilience, and the search for belonging in a new country. The book beautifully illustrates themes of family, hope, and perseverance, making it an excellent tool for fostering empathy and understanding in children. It encourages readers to embrace differences and highlights the importance of community support during difficult transitions.
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By: Gaia Cornwall
A heartwarming story about a young boy named Jabari who faces his fears while preparing to jump off a diving board. Through his journey, Jabari learns the importance of courage, self-confidence, and perseverance. This engaging narrative encourages children to confront their anxieties and emphasizes that taking risks and asking for support is okay.
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By: Becky Cummings
This book empowers children with the profound understanding that they hold the key to shaping their own experiences through the power of choice. This insightful book encourages young readers to embrace 13 empowering "I choose" statements, promoting a positive mindset and fostering lifelong habits of resilience and emotional intelligence. By emphasizing conscious decision-making and encouraging positive actions, this book inspires children to take ownership of their responses to life's challenges, ultimately nurturing happier and healthier lifestyles.
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By: Kobi Yamada
This captivating narrative celebrates the remarkable uniqueness of each individual. It reminds readers of all ages of their extraordinary place in the universe. It encourages embracing one's current self while nurturing the boundless potential within. "Maybe" is a timeless exploration of the endless possibilities that lie ahead in life.
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By: Michael Engler
A touching story about a baby dragon adopted by Mama Blackbird, who loves him unconditionally despite his differences. The dragon faces challenges like learning to fly and fitting in with his siblings, but his family's unwavering support helps him through. When winter arrives unexpectedly, the dragon discovers his unique talent for starting fires, warming the forest animals, and proving his worth. This book beautifully portrays themes of acceptance, resilience, and the power of unconditional love, teaching children that being different is a strength to be celebrated. It's a heartwarming tale that encourages self-acceptance and empathy in blended families, reminding readers of all ages that love allows us to embrace our true selves and overcome challenges.
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By: Jill Neimark
A poignant story about a resilient tree on a cliff by the sea. Despite enduring harsh winters that break her boughs and roots, the tree finds strength in the sun, moon, and sea nurturing elements. With the kindness of a young boy and the healing power of nature, she becomes a refuge for a family of loons and grows into a symbol of resilience and compassion. This heartwarming tale teaches children about overcoming adversity and the importance of kindness, making it a cherished resource for fostering empathy and resilience in young readers.
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By: Jay Miletsky
Ricky, a rock with a flat side that prevents him from rolling like his round friends, faces feelings of exclusion and frustration. However, his friends demonstrate empathy and resilience by supporting Ricky in finding his way to roll. Through teamwork, creativity, and unwavering friendship, Ricky learns to overcome his challenges, showcasing themes of perseverance and self-acceptance. This uplifting tale encourages children to embrace their uniqueness, navigate setbacks with resilience, and cherish the importance of kindness and inclusion in building strong friendships.
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By: Corinna Luyken
Creatively explores the concept of embracing imperfection and learning from mistakes. Readers embark on a journey where every supposed mistake in her artwork is transformed into something beautiful and unexpected. This book beautifully captures themes such as resilience, creativity, and the power of positive thinking. It encourages children to see mistakes as opportunities for growth and self-discovery, inspiring them to embrace their own unique creative journey with confidence and optimism.
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By: Jacqueline Woodson
A poignant and empathetic picture book that celebrates diversity encourages empathy and promotes self-acceptance. This book tells the story of children who feel like outsiders because of their differences, whether it's cultural heritage, appearance, or experiences. As they navigate the challenges of starting at a new school or meeting new peers, they discover the courage to share their unique stories. This book resonates deeply with social-emotional learning themes by emphasizing the importance of understanding, acceptance, and finding strength in one's individuality. It encourages children to embrace their identities, celebrate diversity, and foster empathy towards others, making it a powerful resource for promoting inclusivity and emotional resilience.
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By: Sonia Sotomayor
An inspiring book that promotes empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. It introduces readers to children with various disabilities and differences, showcasing their unique strengths and perspectives. The book encourages young readers to ask questions, embrace diversity, and appreciate the richness that different experiences bring to our lives. It emphasizes the importance of kindness, acceptance, and recognizing each person's value, regardless of their challenges or differences. "Just Ask" is a wonderful resource for teaching social-emotional learning skills, fostering empathy, and empowering children to celebrate both their own uniqueness and that of others.
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By: Yangsook Choi
A heartfelt and thought-provoking book that explores themes of identity, belonging, and acceptance. The story follows a young girl named Unhei who moves to America from Korea. Feeling unsure about her new surroundings and her name, which others struggle to pronounce, Unhei contemplates choosing a new, more American name. However, her classmates embark on a journey to help her embrace her cultural identity by collecting names in a jar for her to choose from. Through their supportive gestures and growing friendships, Unhei learns to appreciate her heritage and the uniqueness of her name. This book beautifully illustrates the importance of cultural diversity, self-acceptance, and the power of friendship in fostering a sense of belonging. It serves as a wonderful tool for teaching children about empathy, respecting differences, and celebrating individuality.
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By: Peter H. Reynolds (
A powerful and inspiring book that emphasizes the importance of finding and using one's voice. The book encourages children to express themselves, stand up for what they believe in, and make a difference in the world. It highlights themes of self-expression, empathy, and social responsibility. It empowers young readers to understand that their words and actions can have a significant impact on their communities. This book is an essential read for fostering confidence, advocacy, and a sense of agency in children, making it a valuable tool for conversation.
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By: Brenda Li
Embark on a journey with Millie, a spirited young girl determined to excel in track and field despite her many mishaps. From tangled hair to misspelled words and spilled milk, Millie's aspirations of becoming a top athlete are challenged at every turn. Faced with frustration and discouragement as she makes repeated errors, Millie must summon resilience, creative problem-solving, and mental toughness to overcome obstacles. Through Millie's story, young readers learn the valuable lesson that making mistakes is a natural part of growth, and with perseverance, they can turn setbacks into successes. The book includes mindful affirmations like "I can do this" and "I am strong," fostering self-esteem and empowering children to confidently pursue their dreams.
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By: Suzanne Lang
Jim Panzee is a monkey who wakes up feeling grumpy for no apparent reason. As Jim's friends try to cheer him up with suggestions like swinging, singing, and even dancing, Jim stubbornly insists that he's fine, even though his grumpiness is evident. The story gently explores themes of managing emotions and the importance of self-awareness. Ultimately, Jim learns that it's okay to feel grumpy sometimes and that expressing his feelings with friends can help lift his mood. This book teaches children about empathy, emotional regulation, and the power of friendship.
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By: Peter H. Reynolds
Ramon loves to draw until one day, his older brother laughs at his artwork, criticizing it as "ish" — not quite realistic or perfect. Devastated, Ramon loses his confidence in drawing until he discovers that making things "ish" — using his own unique style and imagination — brings him joy again. Through Ramon's journey, readers learn the powerful lesson that art (and life) doesn't have to be perfect to be meaningful and beautiful. "Ish" inspires children to embrace their creativity, trust their instincts, and find value in their unique perspectives. It's a story that encourages resilience, self-acceptance, and the freedom to express oneself authentically.
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By: Dan Santat
A poignant and uplifting story that delves into the themes of overcoming fear, resilience, and the journey to regain confidence. The book follows Humpty Dumpty after his famous fall, revealing his fear of heights and how it affects his daily life. Despite his apprehensions, Humpty gradually finds the courage to face his fear through small, determined steps. With vibrant illustrations and a heartfelt narrative, Santat explores the challenges of moving past setbacks and the empowering feeling of conquering fears. "After the Fall" reminds children and adults alike that setbacks can lead to growth, and facing fears can lead to newfound strength and freedom.
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By: Jayneen Sanders
An essential guidebook to navigate important conversations with children about personal boundaries, consent, and respect. It provides practical strategies and age-appropriate language to empower children to understand and assert their boundaries while respecting those of others. This comprehensive resource equips adults with the tools needed to foster healthy relationships and empower children to navigate social interactions with confidence and respect for themselves and others.