Which Books Should You Read to Kids During Quarantine and Social Distancing?
The worries and stress of our world these days are felt by all of us, including our children.
They may be struggling with losing the comfort of their daily routines, missing friends, or seeing or feeling the anxiety of their parents or other adults around them.
That is a lot of big emotions for one little guy or gal.
Hugs and comforting words go a long way, but a good book can bring calm to any household.
Here are seven to add to your keep-the-peace tools for your young children as we face the pandemic:
The I’m Not Scared Book by Todd Parr
In his typical colorful, honest-to-our feelings and inspiring style, the New York Times best-selling author shares a message that assures readers of a few things.
We’re all scared of something.
But understanding our fear better or talking through it with someone we trust just maybe could help us not be scared anymore.
Waiting is Not Easy: An Elephant and Piggie Book by Mo Willems
The title says it all, and it couldn’t be more true when we don’t know how long or what exactly we will find at the end.
Young children may focus on all the things we can’t do right now.
For our youngest children, this book offers a chance to talk about how there are many times in life we have to show patience.
For school-aged children, it could open up discussions about what’s at stake in our choices now and the benefit of putting others’ needs before our wants.
The Berenstain Bears Count Their Blessings by Stan and Jan Berenstain
It can be easy to focus on all the things we can’t do or don’t have.
But with a fierce storm surrounding their tree house, Mama Bear helps her cubs see all that they can appreciate.
This classic offers a great opportunity to shift everyone’s mindsets and maybe even start a daily tradition of recognizing all the things for which we’re thankful.
When I Feel Scared by Cornelia Spelman
Listening to the news during this time can cause anxiety and fear in kids.
Kids need to know it’s completely normal to feel scared during times like these.
This book is perfect for young kids who are having a hard time dealing with fears and with voicing their fears.
Everywhere I Go, God is With Me by Mikal Keefer
Even if families have to be separated during these times, kids can find comfort in knowing that God is always with them.
This children’s book illustrates that fact and brings comfort to kids during this time.
Written by a grandpa! :)
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
This tale about a special connection we share with those we love no matter the distance serves two incredibly important purposes now.
For those who endure the unfortunate experience of losing a loved one to this pandemic and need a way to explain death gently to a child, there isn’t a better book out there.
But the story also offers comfort to those separated by distance or just needing extra assurance during difficult times.
It will Be OK — Trusting God Through Fear and Change by Lysa TerKeurst
Change is always tough for kids.
With schools closed, fun plans canceled, and even mom and dad working from home, this book is perfect for teaching kids to trust God through these new and uncertain times.
Help your child navigate through these different situations with this colorful, thoughtful book.
Being Thankful Little Critter by Mercer Mayer
One of my favorite kids book series and this one focuses on thankfulness.
How can focusing on thankfulness help your kids during this time?
It helps them stop focusing on what’s not perfect in their life right now.
They still have a home, a family, food in the pantry, and a good book to read!
Taking time to focus on the things you have right now and even the wonderful things you’ve already been blessed to enjoy in the past will help your child realize that even during tough times, we can choose to have joy through a heart of thankfulness and gratitude.
How Big Is Your Brave by Ruth Soukup
There is no better time for kids to learn that it’s ok to be scared, but also that we can also choose to be brave.
This is an inspiring story for kids!
They’ll love following a rabbit named Zippy through adventures of facing fears in order to achieve her dream of being able to travel to outer space.
Kids will love reading about this brave little rabbit (Book will be available soon! May is the release month!)
BOOKS HELP KIDS THROUGH TOUGH TIMES!
Help your kids get through social distancing and quarantining with extra reading time with mom and dad!
It’s definitely tough to be away from friends and family and understand what’s going on in the world for anyone, but it’s especially difficult for a child.
Use these books to bring calm and comfort to your children during this time.
Which Book Did Your Child Love Most?
Share with us in our Parents Connect group on Facebook!
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