It’s never too early to teach your kids emotional intelligence. In fact, these days, some people consider EQ (emotional quotient) more important, if not as important, as IQ or cognitive intelligence.
Teaching your kids emotional intelligence will help them be in tune with their emotions and those of others, developing self-awareness, self-regulation and empathy, among others. These skills are valuable from childhood through adulthood, giving them the best chances of living happy and fulfilling lives.
There are many ways to strengthen your kid’s EQ, and reading is one of them. Here, Fully Booked has rounded up books to help your kids become more emotionally resilient.
For early readers, there’s “Inside Out 2: Go to Sleep, Anxiety” by Luna Chi, a picture book inspired by the film “Inside Out 2.” “The I Love You Book” by Todd Parr is a sweet and tender board book exploring the meaning of unconditional love with the little ones, assuring them of your love amid the rollercoaster of emotions they experience. “The Pout-Pout Fish and the Worry-Worry Whale” by Deborah Diesen is a delightful under-the-sea picture book featuring a whale who’s hesitant about attending a party.
“Cocomelon: What Are You Thankful For?” by Natalie Shaw is inspired by the popular Cocomelon video “What Are You Thankful For?” This colorful board book can teach your kid to count their blessings and find happiness even in the smallest things.
“Daniel Gets Scared” (Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Series) by Wendy Harris is inspired by the classic series “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is beloved for its cast of lovable characters and the life lessons it imparts to children.
“The Invisible Leash: An Invisible String Story About the Loss of a Pet” by Patrice Karst and Joanne Lew takes the character Zach on an enlightening journey through their neighborhood—and through his grief. “Squirt Magert: The Fraidy Frog” by Gidget R. Jimenez is the story of a fearful frog who musters the courage to help his friend.
For intermediate readers, there’s “Sugar and Spite” by Gail Villanueva, a brilliant middle-grade novel that asks whether it’s ever okay to take away someone’s free will. “Adrift” by Tanya Guerrero is a heartwarming tale exploring the processing of difficult emotions—grief, survival and uncertainty.
“Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey” by Erin Entrada Kelly is an endearing middle-grade novel about a girl trying to overcome her fears and anxieties. And “The Hundred Dresses” by Eleanor Estes is a timeless, gentle tale about bullies, bystanders and having the courage to speak up.