Mental Health
10 Children’s Books About Mental Health
Children, like adults, experience a range of emotions and mental health challenges. Addressing these topics through children’s literature can make these discussions more approachable and less intimidating. After all, books can be an effective way to help children understand their feelings, develop empathy and build lasting emotional resilience. So with that in mind, below are the top 10 children’s books about mental health.
10 Books About Emotions for Kids
The Huge Bag of Worries by Virginia Ironside (ages 5-9)
Jenny carries a huge bag filled with all her worries, which grows heavier each day. She tries to ignore it, but it keeps getting in her way. Eventually, a kind neighbour helps Jenny sort through her worries, making them more manageable. Similar to Ruby’s Worry, this important book teaches children the importance of sharing their concerns with others and finding healthy ways to address their worries.
When Sadness Comes to Call by Eva Eland (ages 3-7)
This gentle book personifies sadness as an unexpected visitor. It teaches children that it’s okay to feel sad and suggests simple, comforting activities to help them cope until sadness leaves. Parents and caregivers can use this book to reassure children that feeling sad is normal and provide them with strategies to deal with sadness in a healthy way.
A Terrible Thing Happened by Margaret M. Holmes (ages 4-8)
Sherman the raccoon witnesses something terrible and starts to feel anxious and troubled. With the help of a therapist, Sherman learns to talk about his experience and feelings, helping him to feel better. This is the perfect book for children who have experienced trauma, especially those in care, as it helps them to understand their feelings whilst encouraging them to talk to a therapist or trusted adult.
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst (ages 4-8)
This heartwarming story teaches children that they are always connected to loved ones through an invisible string, even when they are apart. It addresses separation anxiety and grief, providing comfort and reassurance. Parents and caregivers can use this book to help children cope with the anxiety of separation or the loss of a loved one, reinforcing the notion of an unbreakable bond, which can be crucial for foster children experiencing displacement.
How Are You Feeling Today? by Molly Potter (ages 4-8)
This interactive book provides practical strategies for managing emotions. It offers a number of different scenarios and asks children how they might feel and what they can do to cope with those feelings. Educators and parents can use this book to engage children in discussions about their feelings and equip them with tools to manage emotions effectively.
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The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson (ages 8-12)
Twelve-year-old Matthew Corbin lives with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and spends his days observing his neighbours from his bedroom window. Things take a turn when a toddler goes missing, and Matthew’s observations become key in solving the mystery. This book is great for children with OCD to learn more about it, or to help other children become more empathetic and understanding to those who do.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio (ages 8-12)
Wonder follows August Pullman, a young boy with a facial difference who attends mainstream school for the very first time. Throughout the book, August’s courage, resilience and kindness inspire his community to look beyond appearance. Overall, it’s a powerful tool for teaching children about acceptance, empathy and the impact of kindness, as well as the importance of looking beyond the surface.
Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine (ages 10-14)
Caitlin, a young girl with Asperger’s syndrome, struggles to understand emotions and social interactions. This becomes especially difficult for her after the tragic death of her brother. It’s important to note that this novel includes triggering subjects including school shootings. Nevertheless, it promotes understanding for people on the Autism spectrum who experience the world very differently.
Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt (ages 10-14)
Ally, a young girl with dyslexia, tries to hide her struggles by acting out in school. When a new teacher sees her potential, Ally begins to embrace her uniqueness, discovering her individual strengths and transforming her outlook on life. This book is critical for understanding the importance of recognising and celebrating every child’s abilities.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky (ages 14-17)
Through a series of letters to an anonymous friend, high school freshman Charlie shares his experiences with first love, friendship and the complexities of growing up. Note that this novel also covers difficult topics such as sexual assault, as Charlie is forced to confront his trauma. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is regarded as one of the most popular and important books for teens, emphasising the importance of seeking qualified help when needed.
How Children’s Books Help Address Mental Health Issues
Understanding mental health is crucial for children, as it lays the foundation for their emotional and psychological wellbeing. Children’s books about mental health can:
- Provide relatable characters and scenarios that mirror children’s own experiences.
- Offer strategies and tools for managing emotions and mental health issues.
- Normalise conversations about mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging openness.
- Foster empathy through self-reflection and understanding.
Further Resources
While children may struggle with understanding and managing their mental health, parents and foster carers can provide guidance. It’s crucial to acknowledge the validity of your child’s emotions and be prepared to offer them the necessary support as their caregiver. By incorporating these 10 children’s books about mental health into young people’s reading routines, you can help them to understand their feelings and significantly support their emotional wellbeing.
For more practical mental health literature, see 5 Children’s Books About Anxiety.
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