Full of eye-catching graphics and simple text, this wonderful book is inclusive and far-reaching, drawing readers in by exploring bodies, gender, safety, and sexuality. Not terribly graphic, it deals with sexuality as an expansive concept, while still providing plenty of thought-provoking conversation starters. It’s a book an older child can explore independently, but works even better when read together.
SEL Home » Resources with tag: social skills
Consent: It’s as Simple as Tea (ages 11 and up)
This funny viral video uses various tea-based scenarios to illustrate the nuances of consent for tweens and teens. Somewhat reductive in its metaphor, it is nevertheless amusing and relatable to most adolescents. Great way to start a conversation about the more unsettling aspects of sexual consent.
The Asperkid’s (Secret) Book of Social Rules: The Handbook of Not-so-Obvious Social Guidelines for Tweens and Teens with Asperger Syndrome by Jennifer Cook O’Toole (ages 10-17)
Full of illustrations, humor and easy-to-understand explanations of important social rules that may not be so obvious to a child on the spectrum. The book was named the Autism Society America 2014 Temple Grandin Outstanding Book of the Year and made the Autism/ASP Digest Top Books list.
Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key by Jack Gantos (ages 8-12)
In this antic yet poignant new novel, Jack Gantos has perfect pitch in capturing the humor, the off-the-wall intensity, and the serious challenges that life presents to a kid dealing with hyperactivity and related disorders.
A Friend Like Simon by Kate Gaynor (ages 4-8)
Kate Gaynor’s “A Friend Like Simon” serves as a helpful introduction to autism for neurotypical peers or siblings. This is the story about an autistic child who joins a “typical” classroom and faces a number of challenges. Young readers will learn how to be mindful of and patient with their autistic peers, while also learning about the many ways an autistic child can contribute to a friendship and community.
Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears? By Jennifer Veenendall (ages 4-8)
Izzy is a fun and feisty first grader who is often misunderstood because of her seemingly odd behavior. This vibrantly illustrated book tells the story of how Izzy attempts to cope with sensory overload in surroundings that are new to her, while simultaneously promoting the acceptance of peers with sensory modulation difficulties.
Why Johnny Doesn’t Flap by Clay Morton and Gail Morton (ages 4-8)
A picture book with a difference, Why Johnny Doesn’t Flap turns the tables on common depictions of neurological difference by drolly revealing how people who are not on the autistic spectrum are perceived by those who are. The autistic narrator’s bafflement at his neurotypical friend’s quirks shows that ‘normal’ is simply a matter of perspective.
I Am Kind by Suzy Capozzi (ages 3-6)
I Am Kind follows a little girl who sees kindness all around her. The little girl realizes that she, too, has the power to be kind, and that even small actions can have a big impact.
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Phillip Stead (ages 2-6)
Amos McGee, an elderly man who works at the zoo, finds time each day for five special friends. With empathy and understanding he gives the elephant, tortoise, penguin, rhinoceros, and owl the attention they need. One morning, Amos wakes up with a bad cold and stays home in bed. His friends wait patiently and then leave the zoo to visit him.
Peace is an Offering by Annette LeBox (ages 3-6)
“Peace is an Offering is an exceptional book with beautiful illustrations and a meaningful message that appeals to preschool through second grade level students. The book captivated students’ interests and inspired open-hearted discussions that led to deeper project work. Students readily responded by talking about family, friends, walking away from conflict, acts of kindness, gratitude, and how to maintain a peaceful feeling. We read several books aloud to students, and Peace is an Offering received immediate comments from students about the illustrations and how much they like the book overall. This book should be in every lower grade level classroom.” Makes a mention of 9/11.
1: How Many People Does It Take to Make a Difference? by Kathryn Otoshi (ages 3 and up)
More than ever before, our world needs more goodness…more kindness… more caring…more courage…more YOU in it. But, what can one do? Here’s the answer: Throughout your life there’s a voice that only you can hear. It’s a call to make a difference that only you can make. If you never hear it, something magical will be lost. But if you hear it and heed it, your life will become a wonderful romance and adventure. The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The meaning of life is to give your gift away. The place you are in needs you today. Your spark can become a flame and change everything. Instead of asking, “What can I get from life?” this book challenges and guides you to answer the question, “What can I give?”
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena (ages 3-5)
Every Sunday after church, CJ and his grandma ride the bus across town. But today, CJ wonders why they don’t own a car like his friend Colby. Why doesn’t he have an iPod like the boys on the bus? How come they always have to get off in the dirty part of town? Each question is met with an encouraging answer from grandma, who helps him see the beauty—and fun—in their routine and the world around them.
Zero by Kathryn Otoshi (ages 3-6)
As budding young readers learn about numbers and counting, they are also introduced to accepting different body types, developing social skills and character, and learning what it means to find value in yourself and in others.
Whoever You Are by Mem Fox (ages 4-7)
A celebration of the world’s diverse cultures, both our similarities and differences. Fox’s message is that no matter where we come from, within our hearts, “Joys are the same, / and love is the same. / Pain is the same, / and blood is the same.”
What Does It Mean To Be Kind? by Rana DiOrio (ages 4-8)
“…a beautiful book with a beautiful message…the book shows young children how easy it is to be kind through small acts and in simple ways…” ―R.J. Palacio, author of Wonder
Hey Little Ant by Phillip M. Hoose (ages 3-7)
Parable about mercy and empathy that asks readers to look at life from an insect’s point of view
Have You Filled a Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids by Carol McCloud (ages 3 and up)
This heartwarming book encourages positive behavior by using the concept of an invisible bucket to show children how easy and rewarding it is to express kindness, appreciation and love by “filling buckets.”
Auggie and Me by R. J. Palacio (ages 8 to 12)
Auggie & Me is a new side to the Wonder story: three new chapters from three different characters: bully Julian, oldest friend Christopher and classmate Charlotte
We’re All Wonders by R.J. Palacio (ages 4 to 8)
A picture book by the author of Wonder, that explains for young readers how someone can look different but feel completely normal and how it feels to look different and have people stare at you. The message is “Look with kindness and you will always find wonder.”
“Kindness is Complex,” An annotated list of Wonder-inspired books (ages 8 to 12)
These are books about marginalized characters or characters facing difficult challenges who respond with courage. If Wonder helped your reader develop more empathy, these books will help build on their interest.
Peace Path (PDF)
Used at PS 321 and many schools, the Peace Path is a framework for addressing a myriad of interpersonal conflicts such as feeling left out of a group, having problems sharing or taking turns, physical altercations, or other words or actions that lead to hurt feelings.
Sumi’s First Day of School Ever by Joung Un Kim and Soyung Pak (ages 3-6)
Thoughtful picture book about a young Korean girl on her first day of school. Beautiful, expressive illustrations show how a considerate teacher and even a new friend help Sumi discover that school might not be so lonely after all.
Rumor Has It by Julia Cook (ages 5-9)
Whether we’ve been the subject of a rumor or the one spreading a rumor about someone else, most of us have been involved with rumors somehow. But how many people really stop to think about the damaging effects? Cook brings this serious subject to light in an entertaining and funny, but cautionary, tale about the importance of NOT starting or spreading rumors. Told through the eyes of the rumor marble, the story describes how a simple misunderstanding starts a chain reaction that can’t be undone.
Yoko by Rosemary Wells (ages 3 to 6)
Mmm, Yoko’s mom has packed her favorite for lunch today-sushi! But her classmates don’t think it looks quite so yummy. “Ick!” says one of the Franks. “It’s seaweed!” They’re not even impressed by her red bean ice cream dessert. Of course, Mrs. Jenkins has a plan that might solve Yoko’s problem. But will it work with the other children in class?
A Bad Case of Tattle Tongue by Julie Cook (ages 5 to 8)
Every adult that desires to help children understand the differences between unnecessary tattling and the necessity of warning others about important matters needs this book! Are you trying to help a friend or get them in trouble?
Think for Myself at School by Kristy Hammill (ages 4 to 6)
We can’t always be there to protect our kids from peer pressure, but we can arm them with the power to think for themselves! Kale sets a great example when it comes to making independent decisions in this straightforward kids book. He likes animals and super capes and it doesn’t matter that his friends prefer construction trucks and freight trains.
One by Kathryn Otoshi (ages 4-6)
Blue is a quiet color. Red’s a hothead who likes to pick on Blue. Yellow, Orange, Green, and Purple don’t like what they see, but what can they do? When no one speaks up, things get out of hand — until One comes along and shows all the colors how to stand up, stand together, and count. As budding young readers learn about numbers, counting, and primary and secondary colors, they also learn about accepting each other’s differences and how it sometimes just takes one voice to make everyone count.
The Monster Who Lost His Mean by Tiffany Strelitz Haber (ages 4-8)
“Readers will chime in with the ‘hip, hip hooray’ this cuddly-looking creature earns when he finally embraces and celebrates his differences.” —Kirkus
Say Something by Peggy Moss (ages 5-8)
The girl in this story sees it happening, but she would never do these mean things herself. Then one day something happens that shows her that being a silent bystander isn’t enough. Will she take some steps on her own to help another kid? Could it be as simple as sitting on the bus with the girl no one has befriended (and discovering that she has a great sense of humor)? Resources at the end of the book will help parents and children talk about teasing and bullying and find ways to stop it at school. One child at a time can help change a school.
Enemy Pie by Derek Munson (ages 5-8)
In this funny yet endearing story, one little boy learns an effective recipes for turning your best enemy into your best friend. Accompanied by charming illustrations, Enemy Pie serves up a sweet lesson in the difficulties and ultimate rewards of making new friends.
Amos and Boris by William Steig (ages 5-8)
Amos the mouse and Boris the whale: a devoted pair of friends with nothing at all in common, except good hearts and a willingness to help their fellow mammal.
The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss (ages 5-9)
Ideal for sparking conversations about tolerance, the need for compromise, and fear of the unknown.
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig (ages 6-9)
This gentle story shows how small acts of kindness can help children feel included and allow them to flourish. Any parent, teacher, or counselor looking for material that sensitively addresses the needs of quieter children will find The Invisible Boy a valuable and important resource.
Stand in My Shoes by Bob Sornson (ages 8-9)
Shows kids how easy it is to develop empathy toward those around them. Empathy is the ability to notice what other people feel. Empathy leads to the social skills and personal relationships which make our lives rich and beautiful, and it is something we can help our children learn.
The Recess Queen by Alexis O’Neill (ages 5-8)
A fresh and original twist on the common issue of bullying. Kids will relate, and parents and teachers will appreciate the story’s deft handling of conflict resolution, which happens without adult intervention.
Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson (ages 5-10)
Chloe and her friends won’t play with the new girl, Maya. Every time Maya tries to join Chloe and her friends, they reject her. Eventually Maya stops coming to school. When Chloe’s teacher gives a lesson about how even small acts of kindness can change the world, Chloe is stung by the lost opportunity for friendship, and thinks about how much better it could have been if she’d shown a little kindness toward Maya.
Cliques, Phonies, & Other Baloney (ages 8-13)
Blends humor with practical advice as it tackles a serious subject. Trevor Romain starts by explaining what cliques are and why they exist: because everyone wants to have friends. He reveals why some cliques are so annoying—and often full of phonies. And he shares the secret to being popular: just be yourself!
Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova (ages 10-13)
This is a very cute story about kids learning to be friends with people who have different interests. It takes place as a competition between two school clubs and a rivalry spurred on when the principal calls out both clubs for not contributing to the school community. The characters learn to get past embarrassment and bad history, and that their actions have consequences not just for themselves but that also affect those around them. The artwork is beautiful and the cast displays many ethnicities & personalities.
Brave by Svetlana Chmakova (ages 10-13)
A great middle school book on bullying. Jensen is a little overweight and spends a lot of time fantasizing about becoming an astronaut (even though he’s failing math). He’s an ordinary kid who tries too hard to belong. Kids sniff out that neediness and then it’s open season. Jensen triumphs not because he loses weight, or becomes an athlete or a brilliant student. He finds his own place in the Middle School Jungle, through maturity of thought, while staying his own dreamy self.
How Big is My Problem Chart? (PDF)
A great chart to help kids determine the scale of their problems and put their issues into perspective, perfect to tape on the refrigerator at home.
No Fits Nilson by Zachariah OHora (ages 3-5)
The tables are turned when a tantrum-prone little girl must try to keep her big, temperamental friend from throwing fits throughout the day. A nice way for preschoolers to see tantrum behavior from a different perspective without the message feeling forced.
When Sophie Gets Angry, Really Really Angry by Molly Bang (ages 4-8)
Everybody gets angry sometimes. For children, anger can be very upsetting. Parents, teachers, and children can talk about it. People do lots of different things when they get angry. In this Caldecott Honor book, kids will see what Sophie does when she gets angry. What do you do?
Tough Guys (Have Feelings Too) by Keith Negley (ages 3-5)
A boldly illustrated picture book read-aloud about how everyone gets sad—ninjas, wrestlers, knights, superheroes, everyone . . . even daddies have emotions!
But It’s Not My Fault (ages 5-8)
All about turning the blame game into the responsibility challenge for kids
My Mouth Is a Volcano! (ages 5-8)
An empathetic approach to the habit of interrupting that teaches children a witty technique to help them manage their rambunctious thoughts and words and teaches the value of respecting others by listening and waiting for their turn to speak
Personal Space Camp (ages 5-8)
Personal space camp addresses the complex issue of respect for another person’s physical boundaries. Told from Louis perspective, this story is a must-have resource for parents, teachers, and counselors who want to communicate the idea of personal space in a manner that connects with kids.
You Are a Social Detective (age 5-10)
An entertaining comic book that offers different ways, that can be reviewed repeatedly, to teach kids how to develop their own social detective skills
Superflex: A Superhero Social Thinking Curriculum (ages 5-10)
A fun and motivating way to build social thinking skills. Students learn how each of them have Superflexible capacities in their brains that can overcome a Team of Unthinkables, such as Rock Brain, Topic Twister Meister and Mean Jean.
What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada (ages 5-10)
A story for anyone, at any age, who has ever had a problem that they wished would go away. It’s a story to inspire you to look closely at that problem and to find out why it’s here. Because you might discover something amazing about your problem…and yourself.
Real Friends by Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham (ages 8 to 12)
A terrific graphic memoir about how hard it is to find your real friends―and why it’s worth the journey. Real Friends tackles bullying, childhood anxiety, and growing pains in a heartfelt way but also shows us the incredible kindness and solidarity that girls can and do display.
