Inspire Kids With Books About Kindness and Empathy

For many parents, one of the most precious things they strive to give their children is the ability to be kind and empathetic to others. Sometimes it can seem like kids already have it down pat, like when they try to comfort you when you're sad, or surprise a friend with a handmade gift. Other times, they grumble if they have to share their favorite toy with a sibling or are asked to work with a classmate they don't know very well. Either way, it's important to remember that on both the good and bad days, children need guidance. 

Explore these mental health resources designed to cultivate empathy and emotional intelligence in kids of all ages.

Little readers will love Learn About Your Best Self: I Can Be Kind, a charming story about a little girl named Alina who shows kids different ways to be kind to everyone and how quickly small acts can spread to make the world a better place. With the dinosaurs' signature hilarious shenanigans, kids will not only get some good laughs, but a long-lasting lesson in kindness and empathy.  

In the wonderful You Are Loved, children will explore bright, eye-catching illustrations and messages of love and acceptance for who they are, no matter what. When a Friend Needs a Friend, meanwhile, tells the story of best friends Aya and Oskar, who play together every day. But when Oskar gets sad, his feelings overwhelm him and he pulls away from Aya, who feels hurt by his absence. This book is a great way to explain how to deal with big feelings and be an ally to someone who needs love and support.

Plus, check out the most magical children's fantasy books of the year.

The discussion around kindess and empathy is an ongoing one, because these are traits we continue to learn how to nurture throughout our lives. That being said, these books will give your kids a strong foundation of values to live by — and as a result, you'll witness their everyday life flourishing with new friendships, feelings of fulfillment, and confidence in knowing how to do the right thing. 

Plus, use this resource guide for more strategies on fostering social and emotional learning during storytime with your reader. Explore discussion prompts by age, an emotion word list, and much more to help your child indentify their emotions and better understand the social world around them. 

Shop books about kindness and empathy now! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store.