It’s never too early to teach children to be mindful of their emotional and mental wellbeing. We’ve picked out a selection of books that touch on different ways to practice mindfulness and healthy coping mechanisms for those big emotions.
Crash, Bang, and Wallop are all very boisterous. They love making noise, running around, and jumping into puddles. But sometimes the noise can get too much. Their heads start to spin, their minds go aflutter, and they end up shouting at each other. Then they meet Whisper, Hum, and Hush who teach the rowdy trio that there is fun to be had in quiet moments. This book also features a mindfulness activity for children at the end.
Recommended reading age: 3-8 years old
Little ones can learn how to calm their bodies and minds with this tabbed board book. Starfish Stretches and Bedtime Breathing features eight simple exercises for children to follow. From how to stretch in the morning to wake yourself up to breathing exercises to help wind down at bedtime, this book provides a lovely introduction to mindfulness for kids.
Recommended reading age: 0-5 years old
For children who prefer audiobooks, Ladybird Presents Mindfulness for Children is a wonderful option. Narrated by actress Sheridan Smith, this audiobook features 20 interactive exercises for kids to listen to and follow along. Written by a child-development psychologist and mindfulness expert, young listeners will learn about breathing exercises, and calming games, and will be guided through meditation. A great one to put on for a few minutes a day.
Recommended listening age: 5-7 years old
After being frozen in ice for many years, Gretel, the last mammoth on Earth wakes up. Everyone can’t wait to meet her and show her what the world is now like. But Gretel starts to feel sad and very lonely and pretends to her new friends that she’s fine. When she finally opens up and tells her friends how she’s feeling, Gretel starts to feel much better. This touching story about anxiety by Kim Hillyard will teach children that the bravest thing they can do is to ask for help whenever they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Recommended reading age: 0-5 years old
Another beautiful introduction to mindfulness and what it means, this picture book works its way through the alphabet with words associated with mindfulness including A for Awareness, E for Emotion, and I for Intuition. Each page will teach children about the different sensations and emotions they will experience in life. Plus, Carolyn Suzuki’s stunning and colourful illustrations will keep young readers engaged.
Recommended reading age: 5-7 years old
We’re all guilty of throwing tantrums when we don’t get our way. Jack the little monster is very sweet and kind most of the time. But when he gets upset, he starts to feel very hot and ends up stamping and stomping, crashing and smashing, and making his friends very sad. After a particularly bad tantrum, his mum sits him down and teaches Jack some tricks to help him calm down when he gets angry. This adorable book is perfect for children and adults to read together and learn some practical tips on managing strong emotions.
Recommended reading age: 3-6 years old
Sometimes it isn’t always clear what someone is feeling. Pablo is autistic and sees the world differently and sometimes his face doesn’t match what he is feeling inside. Pablo really wants to go and see his cousin Lorna, but his face looks sad, so his mum thinks Pablo doesn’t want to go. With the help of his friends The Book Animals, Pablo learns to tell others how he feels without words or expressions. This is a lovely story that will show children there are lots of different ways to express their feelings and emotions, and to be mindful that not everyone acts in the same way.
Recommended reading age: 2-7 years old
This interactive board book follows Peppa and her friends as they learn about all the different big emotions. From being sad and scared, to feeling cross and shy, each page shows different scenarios, and the coping strategies children can use when they are feeling overwhelmed. Learn with Peppa: Peppa’s Big Feelings will help you open up conversations around emotional regulation with your little one in an easy-to-understand and accessible way.
Recommended reading age: 3-5 years old
Pow!
Aah, Ooh and Eek often feel nervous, and even though their worries start off small, by the end of the day they just want to run away. The trio wishes they were braver. Luckily, Pow is here to help! Pow says it's normal to have fears that make you feel small. One of the ways you can deal with them is to breathe to calm your mind. Or you can strike a power pose. Or you can turn and face your fear. This sweet picture book will teach children how to manage their worries and find their inner confidence.
Recommended reading age: 3-8 years old
