Read for Resilience

Margaret M. Holmes

This story explains the types of emotions children face after a traumatic event and the ways they can find help.

Miri Bar-Halpern

This unique book provides a sensitive explanation for children about how they can understand and overcome the hurt that anyone can feel when terrible events happen.

Heather Krantz

This book uses clear language and colorful illustrations to help children learn about the feelings of loss and grief. Children also learn helpful ways to manage these difficult feelings.

Ellen Jackson

This sweet book about friendships uses animal examples to teach children from birth on up how we can care for each other.

Giles Andreae

Gerald the Giraffe is struggling to dance and is feeling sad until he meets a special friend who helps him discover his strengths. This story helps readers learn about their own unique strengths and see strengths in others.

Maggie Testa

In this book, Daniel Tiger introduces children to songs to help them identify and manage their feelings. This is a great book for 2- to 5-year-old children.

Jheinz Janisch

Everyone knows how it feels not to be listened to—especially children. Young readers will understand the bear’s frustration completely.

Peter Reynolds

This book will support children in learning about community, empathy, and kindness. It reminds us to reach out to others who might seem different than us, because we all yearn for connection. Communication comes in many different forms, we may just need to slow down and be present.

Monique Gray Smith

This simple book welcomes readers of all ages, from very young children to adults, to celebrate all the things in life that makes their heart feel happy.

Chandra Ghosh Ippen

This story was written to help children and grown-ups (parents, teachers, and other important adults) understand how stress can affect children and ways to help them.

Martin Waddell

A tender tale to reassure and comfort the youngest of children who feel worried and afraid when apart from Mommy.

Oge Mora

Join Ava and her mom as they have a day where their plans do not go as they had anticipated. This is the day where they have story time, salon time, a picnic, and even a puppet show. Though their day has ups and downs, they are reminded the best part about Saturdays is spending time together.

Peter Reynolds

This book encourages children to express themselves in different ways. Children can learn to speak up for themselves and others by using their voice, creativity, and courage.

Leo Lionni

In this beloved, award-winning tale of a brave little fish, Swimmy and his friends learn that they can overcome any problem with teamwork.

Amy June Bates

This book uses a big, friendly, red umbrella who is waiting with “arms spread wide” to shelter anyone from the rain. Using simple words, the book encourages children to practice kindness, hospitality, inclusivity, and acceptance.

Todd Parr

Goodbyes are never easy. This colorful and unique storybook helps children think about the different emotions they may feel when saying goodbye to a loved one.

Jory John

This story is a lighthearted tale with a positive message about acceptance and the importance of self-care. It provides a great opportunity to talk to young children about the importance of prioritizing their own emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

Patrice Karst

Using the idea of an invisible string, this book reminds children they are never alone. This is a story about a mother and her children always having a strong connection no matter how far away they are from one another. It can be particularly helpful for children experiencing sadness, anxiety, loss, or grief.

Judith Viorst

This story teaches children about death by discussing the death of a pet cat and how the parents help their child process grief. The book is intended for children 6 years of age and older.

Janan Cain

This book uses strong, colorful, and expressive images and simple verses to help children connect emotions and their meanings.

Keven Henkes

This story addresses worrying and anxiety in a positive and child-friendly manner.

Camryn Wells

This book uses colors to represent emotions. Watercolor illustrations are used to help children connect their feelings to different colors.