15 Self-Care Books for Younger Kids
Written by Kristi Yeh, LMFT
These are my favorite books to introduce kids to the concept of self-care and emotional wellbeing as a school-based mental health clinician. This list is focused on elementary school kids that are ages five to ten.
Understanding Emotions
In My Heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek
Cloud’s Best Worst Day by Amy Novesky
Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
Jenny Mei is Sad by Tracy Subisak
The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
Slumberkins books about grief, confidence, resilience, change, relaxation and more (better for ages 3-6)
Compassion and Kindness
I am Love: A Book of Compassion by Susan Verde
Listening With My Heart: A Story of Kindness and Self-Compassion by Gabi Garcia
The Friend I Need: Being Kind and Caring to Myself by Gabi Garcia
The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse by Charlie Mackesy
Mindfulness
Listening to My Body: A Guide to Helping Kids Understand the Connection Between Their Sensations and Feelings by Gabi Garcia
I Can Do Hard Things: Mindful Affirmations for Kids by Gabi Garcia
Breathe Like a Bear: 30 Mindful Moments for Kids by Kira Willey
Gratitude
Mateo Finds His Wow: A Story of Wonder and Gratitude by Gabi Garcia
Resilience
What Would You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada
You can find almost any book as a read aloud on YouTube to watch for free and make sure it is a hit with your kids before purchasing a copy. Most of these books are also available at your local library.
Family Self-Care Resources:
Stand Tall Like a Mountain: Mindfulness and Self-Care for Children and Parents by Suzy Reading
Self-Care for Kids and Parents–How to Make it Happen! Blog by Suzy Reading
20 Products You Need to Create the Ultimate Self-Care Toolkit by Kristi Yeh
Growth Mindset, Self-Care and Mindfulness Affirmations poster by Kristi Yeh
Kristi Yeh is a parent of two, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and the founder of Parent Self-Care. She currently works in school-based mental health at a public elementary and middle school. A part of Kristi’s role entails discussing self-care with parents. Kristi is also the author of, Self-Care 101: Self-Care Inspiration for Busy Parents.
