Some topics are hard to talk about with kids, but it's still important to address them so that kids learn to cope with their feelings and understand what is going on around them.
Children may struggle with ways to properly express their own anger, as well as ways to cope with anger and violence happening around them in their families and communities. Books on this page discuss anger and violence and help illustrate methods children can use to manage and cope with each.
Is It Right to Fight? by
Spats are normal among younger kids, and often lead to screaming, hitting and other expressions of anger. This book helps kids understand that it's often all right to be angry, but that it's always best to resolve conflicts peaceably.A First Look At…is an easy-to-understand series of books for younger children. Each title explores emotional issues and discusses the questions such difficulties invariably raise among kids of preschool through early school age. Written by a psychotherapist and child counselor, each title promotes positive interaction among children, parents, and teachers. The books are written in simple, direct language that makes sense to younger kids. Each title also features a guide for parents on how to use the book, a glossary, suggested additional reading, and a list of resources. There are attractive full-color illustrations on every page. (Ages 4-7)
Jenny Is Scared! by
This is a comforting coping story for children who are aware of the threats of violence and terrorism in the world. A range of fears, feelings, and questions are explored. Safety, hope, and comfort are offered in terms that are honest and reasonable. Includes a "Note to Parents" by psychologist and author Ann Rasmussen, PsyD.
Hear My Roar by
Papa Bear loves little Orsa -- but sometimes it's hard to tell. With the help of Dr. Owl, Mama and Orsa bravely take steps to break the cycle of violence. Provides a gentle, non-threatening approach to talking with children about family violence.
A Terrible Thing Happened by
After Sherman sees something terrible happen, he becomes anxious and then angry, but when a counselor helps him talk about these emotions he feels better.
Losing a friend or a loved one can be a difficult and confusing time in a child's life, but being able to discuss their feelings may help them cope wih the loss.
Books on this page are written to help children understand and cope with death and the feelings they experience.
Big Cat, Little Cat by
Simple and joyful domestic routines underscore the deeply entwined lives of two feline companions and the impact of loss on one.
The Rough Patch by
The state of Fox's garden mirrors his grieving process as he mourns his best friend.
When Dinosaurs Die by
The authors explain in simple language the feelings people may have regarding the death of a loved one and the ways to honor the memory of someone who has died.
After Charlotte's Mom Died by
Six-year-old Charlotte feels sad and angry after her mom dies in a car accident. Her dad is sad, too, and often seems too busy to notice Charlotte. But after she gets into a fight at school, he suggests that they both visit Anna, a therapist. With Anna''s help, Charlotte voices her concerns, and she and her dad learn that as time goes on, their happy feelings will get bigger and their sad feelings will get smaller and smaller.
Ada's Pal by
A small dog suffers from a broken heart when her dog companion dies until a veterinarian advises the family that there is only one thing to do.
Dealing with a separation or divorce can be a chaotic time for a child, filled with questions and difficult emotions.
The books on this page help children understand what is happening around them, that they are not to blame, and that their parents still love them, no matter what happens.
Standing on My Own Two Feet by
Addison is a regular kid whose parents are going through a divorce, but he knows that no matter what happens, his parents will always love him. The text in this beautifully illustrated picture book is inspiring, gentle, and uplifting, and teaches kids that having two homes to live in can be just as great as having two strong feet to stand on.
Mom and Dad Don't Live Together Anymore by
For the young girl of the story, splitting time between parents has its ups and downs. She likes the elevators and garbage chutes of mom's city apartment, but the horses near dad's country home are great, too. Not knowing where she'll be for holidays is hard. Even so, she is comforted knowing that each parent still provides the same love and caring --just not together anymore. Sensitively told and featuring reassuring illustrations, Mom and Dad Don't Live Together Anymore offers children a gentle entry into an upsetting subject.
