Guidance for Children Dealing with Anxiety, Loss, and Distressing Information
In the ever-changing world we live in, conversations about difficult topics like natural disasters, war, climate change, and pandemics can be overwhelming for young children. To help preschoolers and kindergarteners understand and manage anxiety, worry, sadness, grief, and fear in response to such events, a guide of picture books has been compiled. These books, suitable for young readers aged 3 and up, serve as effective tools for initiating discussions about feelings and offer reassurance and strategies to cope with difficult emotions in an empathetic and age-appropriate manner.
One such book is "Mabel and the Big Wide World" by Paul Stewart, featuring Mabel, a mouse who struggles with anxiety about the outdoors but gradually learns to be brave. Another book that tackles anxiety is "Worry Says What?" by an unspecified author, which uses self-talk to help children (and adults) flip negative thinking when anxiety arises.
For children facing separation anxiety and fear of new situations, "Never, Not Ever!" by Beatrice Alemagna and "Llama Llama Back to School" by Anna Dewdney offer comfort and reassurance. "The Circular Square" by Simon Philip and Neil Clark explores resilience through the story of a square learning to embrace life’s little joys and change from rigidity to flexibility.
Additional books that emphasize resilience and managing emotions include "Shoot for the Stars" by Danielle Brown and "Be Resilient!" by Dr. Sharie Coombes, though these are more suited to older children transitioning into school.
Other books in the guide include "Ruby Finds a Worry" by Tom Percival, "The Worry Monster" by Catherine P. Cook-Cottone, "Maybe Tomorrow?" by Charlotte Agell, "Whatever Comes Tomorrow" by Rebecca Gardyn Levington, "What If, Pig?" by Linzie Hunter, and "The Breaking News" by an unspecified author.
It's important to note that while these books are especially for preschoolers and kindergarteners, it is recommended to read them prior to sharing them with your child. If you would like to explore a topic further, please head to your local branch for assistance.
In addition to the books mentioned, resources for discussing difficult news with children can be found on the American Psychological Association and Kenosha Public Library websites. The National Youth Crisis Helpline number is 1-800-442-HOPE.
These books aim to start conversations and spread kindness, making the world a slightly less scary place for young children. The guide was initially published in May 2022 under the title "Picture Books for Big Feelings" and was republished with additional resources contributed by the website staff. All of these titles and more can be found in the catalog on hpcl.net.
- The library houses a collection of picture books like "Mabel and the Big Wide World" and "Worry Says What?" which are designed to help young children understand and manage anxiety.
- For children dealing with separation anxiety, books such as "Never, Not Ever!" and "Llama Llama Back to School" offer comfort and reassurance.
- "The Circular Square" and "Shoot for the Stars" are books that promote resilience and emotional management, but they may be more suitable for older children.
- Other resources for discussing difficult topics with children can be found on websites like the American Psychological Association, Kenosha Public Library, and the National Youth Crisis Helpline. These books and resources aim to foster conversations, spread kindness, and create a less intimidating world for young readers.
