7 books to read with kids about mental health

“I always felt, if I can get to a library, I’ll be OK.”

                                                  -Maya Angelou 

Reading is not only a great way to increase your understanding on a variety of topics but is also good for your mental health! Reading offers mental stimulation, stress reduction, improved memory and focus, tranquility, and is a great activity to bond over with your children.  

Dayton Metro Library has joined the On Our Sleeves movement and created two bookmarks to help guide families to books about mental illness and get families talking and normalizing mental health challenges. These bookmarks share books for children from preschool through 6th grade and youth in middle and high school.  

 

Check out some of these books at your local library: 

 

• Worries Are Not Forever by Elizabeth Verdick and Marieka Heinlen  - Toddlers 
• What is Stress? by Mari Schuh - School- aged  
• Feeling Afraid? By Kristy Holmes - School-aged 
• All About Anxiety by Carrie Lewis and Sophia Touliatou - School-aged 
• Mindful Moves: Kid Friendly Yoga and Peaceful Activities for a Happy, Healthy You by Nicole Cardoza - All ages 
• Beneath the Surface: A Teen’s Guide to Reaching Out When You or Your Friend is in Crisis by Kristi Hugstad - Teenager 
• Imagine Us Happy by Jennifer Yu - Teenager 

Want to learn more? Join the On Our Sleeves movement! 

Kids don’t wear their thoughts on their sleeves. Help us break the stigma and gives kids a voice. Join the movement for children’s mental health. 

Ways to get involved: 

• Become an advocate 

• Join our e-community 

• Partner with us 

• Donate to the cause 

• Share your story