A book can be a good way to open up a conversation with our children. Whether it might be about a transition or something else that may be on their mind there are many topics children’s books can cover. Sometimes we know what we want but not know how to find what we’re looking for. Here are a few of our favorite books we’ve run across that have been a help in navigating life changes. Don’t forget that ordering from your local bookstore can be a great alternative to online options as well.
School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex
We discovered this book when we went looking for books to ease the transition from a year of pandemic preschool at home to our first in-person experience. This was the one my daughter loved most because everyone is feeling nervous, even the school, the main character in the book. The Janitor is the reassuring voice and in the end, the school and the children love the new things that are happening.
Even Firefighters Go Potty by Wendy Wax
My daughter sat for this book longer than any other books we read when she started potty training. And as we got deeper into the journey, I loved that it reminded her that everyone has to stop what they are doing to go sometimes. For busy toddlers who don’t want to stop having fun to go, this book hits just the right note with a host of different people stopping their work to go right away.
No More Pacifier for Piggy by Bernette G. Ford
Piggy wants to play with his friend Ducky, but his pacifier gets in the way of the game. Piggy has to choose: pacifier or have fun? Seeing Piggy make the choice made my little one more confident that good things came with the transition. It helped her go without her pacifier for longer stretches until one day, we just didn’t need it. I loved the gentle but common sense approach. Other titles in the series tackle saying goodbye to diapers and bottles and hitting.
Pink is for Boys by Robb Pearlman
Even though this topic hasn’t come up much yet at school, it seemed like a great time to introduce the concept. Even though we are used to certain colors symbolizing different genders, we can all like whatever color we want and play with whatever toys interest us.
All About Families by Felicity Brooks
This title is a good jumping-off point for children and parents to discuss what various families are like. This open-ended book points out some ways families can be different. It provides lots of good food for discussion without advocating for any one view. Families come in all shapes and sizes and from all sorts of backgrounds. They speak various languages, eat different sorts of food, live in different kinds of homes, and celebrate special occasions in a variety of ways.
Wemberley Worried by Kevin Henkes
Though back-to-school time is ultimately featured in this book, it’s a delightful story that addresses the worrywart in all of us and helps kids realize that there’s too much fun to be had to spend time worrying.
Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You by Sonia Sotomayor
This book helped my daughter understand more about those who have a wide variety of differences. The book covers everything from asthma to autism. It sparked great conversations about how we can be a good friend to others and when and how to ask questions. Sotomayor writes from her own experience as a child with diabetes. She helps kids understand not just the challenges some children face but the special powers they have as well. The author also has a read along video that’s great for kids to watch.
Loving Comfort: A Toddler Weaning Story by Julie Dillemuth
When I described this collection of topic-based titles to a group of moms, several mentioned this title as a phenomenal resource for navigating those highly emotional days that come with the end of the mother-child breastfeeding relationship. This is the book I wish we had found during that time. It gently reminds both child and mother that though some things change, the love and comfort found in momma’s embrace never changes even when the milk is gone.
Now that I’ve shared a few of our favorites, I’d love to hear what books have been favorites for you as you walk through milestones, stages, and challenges. Drop them in the comments below!
