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đź“š Therapist-Approved Books for Kids Who Hate Talking About Feelings
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items Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, these books get kids to open up without an eye roll. Perfect for the “I’m fine” crew.
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A classic for helping kids recognize what anger feels like in their body. Great read-aloud and opens the door for talking about calming down (after you read, not during).
When Sophie Gets Angry...really, Really Angry
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Each “spot” represents a different emotion with kid-friendly metaphors. These are great visual tools for kids who struggle to name what they feel. I use them in therapy groups all the time.
A Little SPOT of Emotion 8 Book Box Set
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Not technically about emotions but great for building empathy and making kids pause before they act. Spoiler alert: it’s surprisingly effective with the impulsive crowd.
What If Everybody Did That? (Book 1)
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Helps kids understand how their brains work and how emotions, mistakes, and effort help them grow. It’s one of my top picks for normalizing struggle and building emotional resilience.
Your Fantastic Elastic Brain: Growth Mindset
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This workbook is interactive and surprisingly engaging, even for kids who resist “talking it out.” I use selected pages in therapy sessions and recommend it to parents for home practice.
I'm Not Bad, I'm Just Mad: Anger Workbook
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Bright, simple, and gently humorous. This book gives anxious kids permission to feel worried and reminds them that worry doesn’t last forever. I use it to normalize anxiety and introduce coping skills.
The Don't Worry Book
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Each page captures a different emotion in bold, expressive artwork — and the rhyming text helps kids connect feelings with everyday situations. Great for early readers and younger therapy clients.
The Way I Feel
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Silly title, big impact. This book shows a range of emotions in a playful way which is perfect for kids who are resistant to “serious” conversations. Also: bonus points for the feelings wheel at the end.
Today I Feel Silly: And Other Moods
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Teaches kids to tune into their physical cues (like tight shoulders or butterflies in the stomach): a key part of emotional regulation. I recommend this in nearly every parent session.
Listening to My Body: Guide for Kids on Sensations & Feelings
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A gentle, practical book about building resilience, using positive self-talk, and handling setbacks: all through the eyes of a relatable kid character. Especially great for kids with anxiety or low confidence.
My Strong Mind: Kids Book on Resilience & Confidence
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Uses ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy) in teen-friendly language. Funny, direct, and full of metaphors that make intrusive thoughts less terrifying.
Stuff That's Loud: Teen's Guide to OCD
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Incredibly validating for teens struggling with body image and social media comparison. Reads like a supportive friend who’s been through it, not a textbook.
You Are Not a Before Picture: Inspirational Guide to Tackle Diet Culture & Find Self-Acceptance
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Self-compassion is a tough sell for teens: this makes it doable. Full of relatable examples, quick check-ins, and journaling that doesn’t feel forced.
Self-Compassion Workbook for Teens
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Short, practical, and awesome for perfectionists or anxious teens who spiral after messing up. I’ve used this with middle and high schoolers in both therapy and small groups.
How to Take the ACHE Out of Mistakes
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A beautifully illustrated emotional metaphor book. Works for older kids and teens especially those who struggle to name or sit with emotions. Ideal for trauma, anxiety, or identity work.
Be Mindful of Monsters: Helping Kids Accept Emotions