Teaching your students about complex emotions benefits them in many ways. When they can put their feelings into words, it helps them flourish as individuals and allows their friendships to grow. One of the most effective ways to teach your students about feelings is through the books they read in class. 

The good news is that you don’t have to break your classroom budget to add important SEL concepts to your library. These popular reads are all under $5 and feature loveable characters kids can relate to. Favorites like The Worrysaurus, The Pout Pout Fish, and Wild Feelings will make your students feel seen and equip them with real-life tools to help them cope with their emotions.

Using their favorite characters to illustrate how feelings work can help your students come to terms with what’s happening in their unique situations. When they see their favorite characters experience the same things they are, it brings a sense of relief and comfort in knowing that everyone goes through similar emotions, no matter how complicated or big they may initially seem. 

Shop below for the best books about feelings under $5! We've also compiled a list of budget-friendly social & emotional book collections to add to your classroom library below. You can find all books and activities at The Teacher Store.