We all, including children, may be feeling stressed and struggling with our feelings and emotions. If you’re looking for an age-appropriate way to validate your child’s feelings and use positive coping strategies, reach for a book! Social distancing? No problem, you can find these books within the comfort of your home by calling your local library or searching online for audio and free printable versions. Check out our top 10 books to help discuss stress and anxiety with children:
- How Big Are Your Worries Little Bear?
Through this engaging and beautifully illustrated story, children will learn that everyday worries and fears can be overcome.
- Ruby Finds a Worry
Ruby discovers that everyone has worries, and uncovers ways to get rid of them.
- Hey Warrior
Created for kids 5 years and above, this story helps children understand more about the physical symptoms of anxiety and why it feels the way it does.
- When Worry Takes Hold
When worry sneaks into Maya’s mind she focuses on finding courage. She discovers strategies, including calming breaths, to break free from Worry’s hold.
- Me and My Fear
This story encourages kids to share their fears with a trusted adult. It also normalizes this feeling by reminding readers that everyone carries some type of fear, ‘even if it’s small enough to fit in their pocket’.
- When My Worries Get Too Big!
This book provides kids with an opportunity to explore their feelings and emotions with a trusted adult. They will also discover relaxation techniques to lessen the size of their worries.
- Wilma Jean the Worry Machine
This fun and light-hearted book discusses anxiety in a way that children of all ages can relate to.
- Listening with my Heart
This book focuses on battling kids’ worries and negative self-talk by promoting kindness, towards both others and yourself.
- What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety
A popular pick amongst mental health experts! This book provides clear how-to steps and prompts to draw and write which help kids master skills related to reducing anxiety.
- What to Do When You’re Scared and Worried: A Guide for Kids
This book provides kids with reassurance, advice, and ideas when scared or worried. Kids will learn more about where fear and worries come from, and how they can seek help for fears they can't manage on their own.
Looking for more resources to discuss feelings and emotions with kids? Check out our Know Yourself: What is Stress? video and How I Feel... printable.
