Children learn a variety of lessons throughout Xi childhood. But empathy and kindness are arguably two of the most critical skills they can practice. Adults with good emotional intelligence, empathy, and kindness are happier and more successful, not to mention that they have a positive impact on the community. To help your child become kinder and more empathetic, a bookcase is a great place to start! We’ve collected eight great children’s books about empathy and kindness with lessons that will be valuable to young and old alike.
Empathy Is Your Superpower
Written by Cori Bussolari, illustrated by Zach Greszkowiak
In this colorful children’s book about kindness, kids can learn what empathy is and how to use it in real life. The book concludes with techniques, games, and opportunities for reflection so that adults and children can discuss how to apply empathy in everyday life.
I Am Human: A Book of Empathy
Author: Susan Verde, illustration: Peter H. Reynolds
This New York Times bestseller inspires children around the world to learn Xi. Parents will love teaching their children messages of finding commonality, connection, and empathy in this wide world.
Be Kind
Written by Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Jen Hill
When Tanisha accidentally spills juice on her new dress, her classmates try to step in and offer help because she wants to know what kindness is. The New York Times book review wrote: “Nowadays, it seems more important than ever that books show young people how to behave in a thoughtful, civil, and friendly manner.” ”
Jake the Growling
Author: Samantha Shannon, illustrated by Kerry Joyce
Jack is a misunderstood dog who can’t make friends because of his growl. Parents and children will learn about the power of kindness and the importance of inclusion in this sweet story about a dog’s struggle to fit into the community.
The Rabbit Listened
by Cori Doerrfeld
Taylor is sad and needs help. Thankfully, a group of animal characters were there to offer a lot of advice, but it wasn’t until a rabbit showed Taylor the power of listening, and all of that didn’t feel quite right. Teaching children to listen is a very important aspect of developing empathy, and this book captures that.
My Body Sends a Signal: Helping Kids Recognize Emotions and Express Feelings
Author: Natalia Maguire, illustration: Anastasia Zababashkina
Teaching children to be empathetic and kind is also teaching them to recognize and express their emotions in an appropriate way. That’s where My Body Sends a Signal comes in. Parents will love this children’s book about kindness because it allows them to start a conversation about how to deal with feelings.
What Is Empathy?
Author: Amanda Morin
This children’s book about empathy helps children understand how people see the same thing in different ways. Friends Sophia and Ava have a problem that needs to be solved, and the reader will learn about it from the perspective of both of them. Empathy and kindness are essential to help these two friends come to an agreement.
Listening with My Heart: A Story of Kindness and Self-Compassion
Author: Gabi Garcia, illustrated by Ying Hui Tan
It’s important to be kind and empathetic to others, but how do you teach your child to show self-compassion and love? This is the perfect book to do just that. Through beautiful illustrations and cute stories, children can learn how to treat themselves with respect and kindness, skills that can certainly be used by anyone.