Kickstart Social-Emotional Learning for Back to School

“Back to School” can mean different things to different people. To children, it signals a few more days by the pool, chasing the ice cream truck or catching fireflies. For parents, it could be a sense of relief but also an important reminder that requires action. Your child will be heading back out into the world to learn, engage and share new experiences. This year in particular, the world our children will be re-entering looks very different than it has in the past. Though children are resilient, perhaps even more so than us parents and caregivers, the stresses of society can leave them anxious, overwhelmed and confused.
So, what can we do to help them? Social-Emotional Learning or SEL is an integral part of a child’s growth and development. SEL includes developing self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills. These tools are necessary for impulse control, emotion management and fostering a generally healthy sense of self-worth. Feeling a little overwhelmed about how to discuss these topics with your child? Thankfully there is an effective resource to help us navigate the many situations that we may not have an answer for… picture books! Whether your child is learning their ABCs or headed off to get their PhD, these picture books will help you navigate those tricky emotions we all have.
Ships in 1-2 days.
Be Strong
Pat Zietlow Miller
From the bestselling duo behind Be Kind, Pat Zietlow Miller and Jen Hill’s follow-up, Be Strong, carries a powerful message of “show up, speak up, and never ever give up.” Tanisha shows the reader that lessons learned in school are applicable in the outside world and vice versa. The challenges we all face in life may feel insurmountable, but a nudge of encouragement can go a long way.
Ships in 1-2 days.
The WhatIfs
Emily Kilgore
A refreshing, script-flipping take on the anxieties that creep into all of our lives. Emily Kilgore’s debut is approachable for all ages and, beyond being useful for discussing anxiety, the story following Cora in the lead up to her recital is entertaining and thoughtful.
Ships in 1-2 days.
It Could Be Worse
Einat Tsarfati
Einat Tsarfati treats us to a glass half empty-glass half full tale that’s as much a treat for the eyes as it is for our anxieties. As two shipwrecked sailors navigate the ocean, the only thing more concerning to Albertini is how nonchalant George is about their wayward voyage. Perfect for quelling that sense of doom and a perfect reminder that, in most cases, it could be worse.
Ships in 1-2 days.
Anita and the Dragons
Hannah Carmona
Fall in love with the innocence and insight of Anita, a young girl from the Dominican Republic, as she prepares to move to the United States. Hannah Carmona and Anna Cunha create a truly special tale about persevering through the unknown, especially when it feels like you’re leaving behind so much.
Ships in 1-2 days.
The Circles All Around Us
Brad Montague
This is the story of a circle. When we’re first born, our circle is very small, but as we grow and build relationships, our circle keeps getting bigger and bigger to include family, friends, neighbors, community, and beyond. Brad Montague’s “explainer” on friendship and community is such a memorable teaching tool that even parents, teachers and caregivers will find themselves re-reading it for guidance.
Ships in 1-2 days.
All Because You Matter
Tami Charles
Tami Charles’ empowering words are perfectly complimented by Bryan Collier’s collage painting in this emotion-filled book. Feeling like an anthem, the reader is reminded that they are (literally) made of stardust and also do in fact, matter. A beautiful love letter to Black and brown children with a nurturing message to be appreciated by all. This is sure to start conversations and have a long-lasting impact.
Ships in 1-2 days.
Born Ready
Jodie Patterson
A light-hearted yet impactful look on identity and how it presents itself in a family and community setting. Jodie Patterson shares her transgender son’s experience in this approachable picture book that proves we’re stronger when we are true to ourselves and proud of who we really are.
Ships in 1-2 days.
Lala’s Words
Gracey Zhang
From debut author-illustrator Gracey Zhang comes a timeless story that celebrates the power of kind words, relationship building and determination. Zhang’s gorgeous illustrations use select colors that emphasize acknowledging the colorful parts of life when it’s so easy to overlook them.











