3 Books That Every Child Needs to Read

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Children's books are a powerful tool to communicate important concepts and lessons to your young child. The books I'll be reviewing below cover topics that can be hard to talk about. For example, coping with sadness, what courage looks like, and what consent is. Both caregivers and children will benefit from lessons carried out in these books. Look no further if you are looking for books that promote your child's emotional well-being and spark meaningful conversations.

C is for Consent by Eleanor Morrison 

"Give grandma a hug."

"Come over here. I wanna give you a kiss."

Children are often expected to show physical affection to others. This book shifts this outdated and, quite frankly, unhealthy perspective. It stresses the importance of the child's own decision about how and whether they express affection to others. The book's story helps your child understand that they are in charge of setting boundaries for others.

We've been reading this book since Emma was two years old. She enjoys the story of a boy and his encounters with different relatives and friends.

Inspired by this book, we practice with her how to say no to unwanted physical affection from others. Emma has just turned three and can turn down unwanted kisses or hugs if she doesn't want them.

This book explains the concept of bodily autonomy in a way that even young children will understand.

When sadness is at your door by Eva Eland 

How do you feel when your child feels sad? If you’re like most parents, you struggle to see your child in pain. This book serves as an important reminder to all of us that sadness is just a feeling. A feeling that comes and goes.

This children’s book normalizes sadness. It encourages us to welcome it, sit with it, try to understand it. It also offers your child various coping strategies to try when feeling sad.

This book’s profound message will contribute to your child’s mental well-being and is a gift for everyone reading it. You can also use the book to prompt further conversation about the topic. After reading it, ask your child questions: “What helps you when you feel sad?” Your child might not be able to respond, but you’re consciously directing their attention to notice next time.

Courage is by Jason & True Kander 

Courage isn't something only extraordinary people have. Kids show their courage every day in many different situations. Trying new foods, learning to swim, going to the dentist, or walking into the classroom are all acts of courage. Children will relate to this book as they find themselves in the same situations as kids in the book. This book teaches children that courage isn't a lack of fear. Courage is doing something regardless of feeling fear—what a wonderful reminder to everyone reading this book.

Is there another book you believe that every child needs to read? Please share them in the comments.

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