5 Books That Teach Important Lessons On Friendship
Barnes & Noble
Learning the concept of friendship is one of the most valuable character building lessons in a child’s life. Making new friends is an exercise in confidence, kindness, acceptance and social awareness. But each new and unfamiliar situation for a child may elicit emotions of fear and shyness. Who are these people? Am I good enough? Will they like me?
As a young child, I moved around a lot, so learning to make new friends everywhere I went became second nature. I had to learn to introduce myself, share my toys, and be kind. I even had to learn to accept others who were not always so friendly, and to be mindful of my manners and behavior, just as I was taught. I was sometimes apprehensive, but the reward that comes from belonging to a new social group is one that can build confidence for years to come.
There are so many great books that teach young minds the first lessons in building friendships. Here are a few titles, filled with thoughtful illustrations, to get your little one on the path towards being a good pal.
Notes From Your Bookseller
Nobunny’s Perfect, by Anna Dewdney
Reading about the bad behavior of some little bunnies is likely to remind you of someone who always seems to be in need of a nap. Why didn’t someone teach them better manners? A rhythmic story paired with thoughtful illustrations, Dewdney shows little ones how much better it is to be a good little bunny…even on a not so good day.
Hello, My Name Is Ruby, by Philip C. Stead
The hardest part about making a new friend is getting the courage to just say hello. Adorable little Ruby may be small, but she is packed full of patience in her persistent search for friendship. Follow Ruby as she searches for a friend and ultimately finds the greatest gift of all.
Notes From Your Bookseller
Thank You Bear, by Greg Foley
Bear is thoughtful and kind, but not everyone he meets shares his unique perspective on the gift he has to offer. In this sweet mini parable, Foley thoughtfully illustrates the value of having a unique gift and the importance of sharing it with your friends.
Notes From Your Bookseller
Do You Want to Be My Friend?, by Eric Carle
Not everyone we meet will want to be our friend, and that’s okay. This cute classic about the tiniest of protagonists teaches a valuable lesson on not just friendship, but the joy of finding the perfect one for you. Eric Carle has been delighting young readers for many years and this classic book is still amazing young children with its unique illustrations and brilliant storytelling decades later.
Good friends know when to acknowledge the strengths of others and how important it is to be a good sport. Dog’s friends show him a thing or two about being the best when he becomes too boastful, but does he learn his lesson? This considerate tale of friendship teaches the important lessons that everyone has something great to offer, and being your best shouldn’t come at the expense of someone else’s feelings.
What are your favorite children’s books that help kids learn about friendship?
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