What's On Our Shelves: Top 10 Social-Emotional Development Books for Kids
Many of us at H&H have young kids at home and are always on the lookout for beautiful, interesting children’s books that explore emotions, empathy and kindness. Here are some of our top picks:
The Rabbit Listened: a gentle story about the power of quiet empathy: “poignant text and irresistibly sweet illustration…. about how to comfort and heal the people in your life, by taking the time to carefully, lovingly, gently listen”
Bodies are Cool: a pure celebration of all the different human bodies that exist in the world: “My body, your body, every different kind of body! All of them are good bodies! BODIES ARE COOL!”
Strictly no Elephants: this sweet story captures the magic of friendship and demonstrates the importance of inclusion
Julian is a mermaid: gorgeous artwork and a subtle introduction to gender and acceptance: “a jubilant picture of self-love and a radiant celebration of individuality”
Thank You, Omu: a beautifully illustrated celebration of community and the unexpected rewards of sharing and generosity
Finding Kindness: a sweet book illustrating that we can find compassion and generosity of spirit everywhere we look
Little Tree: a heartfelt ode to the challenges of growing up and letting go - an introduction to the concept of creating space for change even when it’s scary
Pete the Cat: I Love my White Shoes: This book feels like an introduction to CBT for kids! Pete the Cat has to overcome unwanted changes to his favorite new shoes, but he choses to have a positive attitude and finds a way to adjust by singing his joyful song
The Way I Feel: a great introduction to feelings words - we can’t communicate about our inner world until we have the language for this!
Grumpy Monkey: a funny and engaging read that will help teach kids (and remind adults!) they are allowed to feel their feelings. Feelings aren’t for solving - they are for experiencing!
Happy reading!
