Many of us have fond memories of summer: going to the beach with friends, playing in parks, riding around town, getting ice cream, and finding a quiet place to read. But summer can also come with a lot of changes. The weather might not cooperate for a picnic or beach day. Someone might get sick or injured. It isn’t always easy to adapt to swiftly changing plans. Hopefully, these books will help your children learn the skills they need to adapt to their situation and give voice to their struggles.
Unexpected Guests
Written by Marijo Ilustrajo
Ages 4 to 7
If your children struggle with changes to their routine, they might enjoy this book about a mouse family that finds their home changing when a human family moves in. The adorably illustrated tale is a cute reminder that not all changes are bad, even if they seem terrifying at first. It also reminds us that we shouldn’t judge others based on their appearances and encourages us to find ways to live with people (or animals) who don’t look like us.
Worries Big and Small: A Child’s Guide to Talking about Feelings
Written by Hannah Wilson and illustrated by Samara Hardy
Ages 5 to 8
When our kids are worried, it can be difficult for them to explain what’s wrong. This book is filled with scenarios that your child might encounter like being scared to sleep alone or sitting next to a stranger. After describing the situation, Wilson walks your child through a series of questions to help them identify exactly what bothers them and then encourages them to talk to you.
This is Me: Getting to Know Yourself and Others Better
Written by Helena Haraštová and illustrated by Ana Kobern
Ages 6 to 9
This book introduces children to a spectrum of different traits that many kids share like being shy or thoughtful, unruly or energetic, and argumentative or good at hard discussions. Haraštová then explains in an easy-to-grasp way what the difference is and why the same activity is sometimes labelled as talkative and at other times communicative.
Psychology for Curious Kids
Written by Anna Claybourne and illustrated by Nik Neves
Ages 8 to 12
If your child is a bit older, they may enjoy this book that goes into the science behind why and how our brains work the way they do. It also explains how they change as we age, and how our minds can be influenced by those around us. Each page is filled with bright and engaging pictures to help keep your child’s interest.
Ritu in the Sun
Written by Moniza Hossain and illustrated by Mercè López
Ages 4 to 7
The main struggle of this book is that Ritu loves the sun, but her Nani always tells her to get out of it. While that might sound like a simple plot, this beautiful book is much deeper. It’s about self-acceptance (for both Rihu and Nani), the joy of intergenerational living and healing.
