Children's Books About Self Control
Children's books are an excellent way to introduce and reinforce the concept of self-control.
They provide relatable scenarios and characters that children can connect with, making the learning process both fun and effective.
Here, I've compiled a list of some of my favorite books that teach children how to manage their emotions, find ways to navigate anger and learn self control.
Clark the Shark
Ideal for PreK-2nd grade, this book addresses excitement and body control. It's a delightful story that helps children understand the importance of managing their excitement and energy in social settings.
My Magical Choices presents 13 "I choose" statements that empower children to take responsibility for their days and inspire them to use conscious language and choose to be calm, forgiving, brave, honest, friendly, and much more.
What If Everybody Did That?
Encourages K-4th graders to think about consequences and community impact. This book uses various scenarios to teach children how their actions, however small, can have a significant impact on others and the world around them.
Hands Off, Harry!
A story for K-2nd graders focusing on personal boundaries. It's an excellent tool for teaching children about respecting others' personal space and understanding the importance of consent.
What Should Danny Do? School Day
A fun and relatable book for PreK-3rd grade about choices and consequences. This interactive book allows children to make choices for Danny, helping them understand that their decisions have consequences.
Sorry!
A book about peer pressure and values for 3rd-5th graders. It explores themes of peer pressure, making good decisions, and the power of apologies, helping children navigate complex social situations.
In I Have Ants in My Pants, Julia Cook helps normalize the feeling many kids have when they struggle to control their wiggles and provides strategies for improving impulse control.
More Than Just Self-Control: Expanding the Scope
Books that go beyond self-control to include mindfulness, regulation, and other social skills are also important.
- My Mouth is a Volcano – Discusses using self-control with one's voice, suitable for 1st-3rd graders. This book is a fun and engaging way to teach children about the importance of not interrupting and listening to others.
- I Can’t Believe You Said That – Focuses on using a social filter, recommended for 2nd-4th graders. It helps children understand the impact of their words and encourages them to think before speaking.
- Well, I Can Top That! – Addresses bragging and one-upmanship, common in kids struggling with impulse control. This book offers a unique perspective on self-control, focusing on the need to be humble and the value of being a good listener.
- I Really Want the Cake – A delightful story about a little girl's struggle with self-control around a tempting cake. It's a humorous and relatable tale that teaches children the value of patience and self-restraint.
- We Don’t Eat Our Classmates – A unique tale about a dinosaur learning self-control in a school setting. This imaginative story provides a creative way to discuss making friends and treating others with kindness.
Meet Quilliam, a loveable porcupine with a not-so-lovable temper. His friends have to run for cover whenever he gets mad. Can Quilliam learn to control his shooting quills before someone gets hurt?
Mindfulness and Self-Regulation
Mindfulness is an important aspect of self-control. Books focusing on mindfulness help children understand and manage their emotions.
Yoga and Mindfulness: A Toolkit for Kids
Introduces mindful breathing and movement. This interactive workbook is filled with activities that teach children about mindfulness in a fun and engaging way.
My Magic Breath
Teaches children to breathe out thoughts and feelings, a core self-regulation strategy. This beautifully illustrated book helps children visualize their breath as a tool to manage their emotions.
A World of Pausabilities: An Exercise in Mindfulness
Encourages children to find quiet moments and calmness. It's a wonderful introduction to the concept of mindfulness, teaching children the importance of taking a moment to pause and be present.
This book about little Nick:
- contains lovely illustrations and lightly rhyming storyline
- helps children recognize and cope with their anger in a funny way through communication with zoo animals
- offers a variety of calming techniques and is aimed to improve kids self-regulation skills
- teaches children to admit their mistakes and say “I’m sorry”
- includes a bonus coloring page
The Lemonade Hurricane – A Story of Mindfulness and Meditation
Shows mindfulness as a calming influence. This story is a gentle introduction to meditation and mindfulness, helping children understand how these practices can help calm their minds.
Mindful Bea and the Worry Tree
A tool for children with anxiety, teaching mindful breathing and visualization. It's an excellent resource for children who experience anxiety, offering practical tools for managing their emotions.
Each book has its unique approach and target age group, making it easy to find the perfect match for your child's needs and developmental stage.
Loved these books? Don't forget to check out these other book ideas and reading resources.
Comments
No Comments