Books are also a powerful tool that can help children safely communicate feelings and deal with emotions while learning essential skills.
“Through the enjoyment of books, a young child learns the mechanics of reading and writing. On a metacognitive level, where a child is thinking about their learning, exposure to books allows them to understand that reading and writing are effective forms of communication.
A young child can grasp concepts, which include everything from new words to number recognition. Through books, they develop a deeper understanding of themselves, others, and the world around them, deepening a child’s empathy and compassion.
And your child is most capable of learning when they feel safe and loved. We are all so busy! When we stop everything for those precious moments with a child and a story, we show them that not only is reading important, but they are important. You give your child a lifelong gift when you show them the possibilities of books and reading.”
– Lana Button, Author and Educator.
If you are looking for books that skillfully incorporate messages about emotions/social awareness in an age-appropriate and fun way to read, here are a few of my current favourites.
Percy’s Perfect Friend (Lana Button)
It is a beautiful story about overcoming shyness and building confidence. When other children pick up Percy’s new friend (a plush he names Miss Petticomb), Percy cautiously sets out to find her. On his journey to retrieve Miss Petticomb, Percy must decide whether to share his friend with his classmates or keep her all to himself.
Hopscotch (Marie-Louise Gay)
Hopscotch (Marie-Louise Gay)
Moving and switching schools can be scary. When Ophelia starts at a new school where everyone speaks French except her, she uses her imagination to make magic out of a frightening situation. With the magic of a sheet of white paper and a rainbow of pencils, she will find a way to embrace change and gain independence.
The Bird Feeder (Andrew Larsen)
The Bird Feeder (Andrew Larsen)
In this poignant story, a child spends time with a beloved grandmother during her final days and experiences love that will last a lifetime. Grandmother brings her bird feeder, creating a unique connection as they watch, draw, and talk about the birds.
When Grandmother goes to hospice, they get the bird feeder and continue to share these moments. When grandmother passes, the bird feeder returns home as a fond memory and a continuing connection to grandmother.
Author:
Linda Cvetanovic is a mom of two teens who still love reading. Her family are long-time fans of Telling Tales and Canadian children’s literature. She truly believes it takes a village and her best advice is never to use google to find out what is wrong with your child.
This September, you can meet your favourite children’s authors at the Telling Tales Festival at Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario. Until then, enjoy some time snuggling up and reading.
