8 Books about Emotions for Children

The earlier we connect and understand our emotions, the better we will be able to respond to all kinds of situations.

Emotions are valid. Mental health is important. Mental health matters.

Let’s teach it to our children. Let’s help our teens understand mental health. When our children know how to express their emotions and speak up for themselves and others, we create strong, kind people.

We’ve put together 8 exciting and creative books for children to help them understand mental health and emotions. They are fun and interactive picture books to get the conversation rolling.

1. Gorilla Thumps and Bear Hugs

By Alex Ortner

Gorilla Thumps and Bear Hugs book

Annabel dreams of one day being a scientist, but teasing from other kids at school has hurt her confidence and left her feeling sad and alone. Join her as she learns how to use the Magical Tapping Technique to quickly release her sadness and regain her confidence. Through the book, you’ll learn about the scientifically proven technique commonly known as “Tapping” and how you can use it for both yourself and your child to overcome stress, anxiety, negative emotions, and much more. Your child will love the fun descriptions and illustrations for each point, such as the Super Eagle Eye Point, Lion Cry Point, Dragon Fire Point, Wolf Point, and more. Your child will be having a blast as they howl, hug, thump on their chest, act like a monkey, and more . . . all while learning how they can use Tapping to help themselves in real life!

2. It Will Be Okay: Trusting God Through Fear and Change

By Lysa TerKeurst

It Will be Okay and book to help children understand emotions.

Little Seed and Little Fox are facing changes and brand-new circumstances–and they don’t like it one bit! Through this unlikely friendship, children will discover that no matter how new or fearful their circumstances, God is always with them.

This picture book is a helpful resource for children, ages 4 to 8, who:

  • are struggling with anxiety or fear
  • have recently suffered the loss of a loved one
  • are facing bullying or are having a hard time coping with a move

The whimsical art by Natalia Moore will put a smile on kids’ faces and put their minds at ease. Just as Little Seed and Little Fox learn to trust that the Farmer is good and kind, children will also learn to trust God. In the end, it will be okay because God is always with us.

3. The Invisible String

By Patrice Karst

The Invisible String

Parents, educators, therapists, and social workers alike have declared The Invisible String the perfect tool for coping with all kinds of separation anxiety, loss, and grief. In this relatable and reassuring contemporary classic, a mother tells her two children that they’re all connected by an invisible string. “That’s impossible!” the children insist, but still they want to know more: “What kind of string?” The answer is the simple truth that binds us all: An Invisible String made of love. Even though you can’t see it with your eyes, you can feel it deep in your heart, and know that you are always connected to the ones you love. Does everybody have an Invisible String? How far does it reach? Does it ever go away? This heartwarming picture book for all ages explores questions about the intangible yet unbreakable connections between us, and opens up deeper conversations about love.

4. A Little Spot – Series

By Diane Alber

A Little Spot Box Set about handling emotions and mental health.

Learn emotions and social skills with SPOTS!

A Little Spot series is a way to teach your child social-emotional skills. Reaching developmental milestones provides kids with tools for success, both in school and in life. Children need to learn how to identify their emotions and feelings. They also need to learn how to handle their feelings when they feel overwhelmed.

This box set includes 8 Emotion Books:
A Little SPOT of Anger
A Little SPOT of Anxiety
A Little SPOT of Happiness
A Little SPOT of Sadness
A Little SPOT of Love
A Little SPOT of Confidence
A Little Peaceful SPOT
A Little Scribble SPOT

5. Its OK Not to Be OK

By Claire Eastham

It's ok to not be ok book cover about mental health

It’s OK Not to Be OK acknowledges and explores common mental health disorders such as depression, eating disorders, and anxiety. Get the lowdown on these issues and why they happen, and discover ways of looking after mental health in our fast-moving world. This book will help children and young people develop the resilience to cope with whatever life throws at them and grow into well-rounded, healthy adults.

6. Worry Says What?

By Allison Edwards

7. Zach Gets Frustrated

By William Mulcahy

8. Wreck this Journal

By Keri Smith

Learn more about the counselors and staff that recommended these books!