Parents + Caregivers
Helpful Reading for Parents
Having the conversation with children about difficult topics can be daunting for parents and caregivers. How do you start? How should you talk? How do you answer tough questions? Children’s Cove and Eight Cousins Bookshop have teamed up to develop a list that parents and caregivers can read with their children to practice having conversations about things which may seem difficult, but really aren’t!
Below is a list of books which have some important messages and can start parents and caregivers on their way of having conversations early and often about topics which may seem difficult. These books are only suggestions. Parents are strongly encouraged to read each book before deciding to give them to your children.
To learn about some themes in these books, and ways to have conversations with your children about them, download our booklist and themes highlight here.
For Younger Children (3 years old to 6 years old)
By: Cori Doerrfeld
Sometimes we just need someone to listen. Taylor is sad and frustrated. One by one his animal friends try to help him, by talking, shouting, cleaning up, or laughing. Rabbit understands just what Taylor really needs. A good reminder lesson for everyone big and small.
By: Peter Reynolds
Everyone has a voice, and it is more than OK to use it! This brightly colored and exciting book teachers its readers that everyone can make a difference with their words, actions and their voices.
By: Sharee Miller
Don’t Touch my Hair sparks an important conversation on personal boundaries for children as Aria explains that her hair should not be touched without asking for permission first. This message lets readers of all ages know that their body is their own, and no on can tell them otherwise!
By: Matt de la Peña, Loren Long (illustrator)
This colorful and wonderfully imaginative book depict the many ways we experience love, a universal bond which carries us from the day we are born throughout the years of our childhood and beyond. With a lyrical text that’s soothing and inspiring, this tender tale is a needed comfort and a new classic that will resonate with readers of every age.
For School Age Children (6 years old – 10 years old)
By: Shannon Riggs, Jaime Zollars (Illustrator)
At a report card conference, Mrs. Salvador informs Regina’s mom that Regina is doing a great job, but she is very quiet. Regina thinks of the secret she keeps so quiet—the one even her mom doesn’t know. Will Regina find the courage to tell Mrs. Salvador her terrible secret? This helpful book provides a tool for adults to gently discuss sexual abuse with young children.
By: David Shannon
Camilla loves lima beans more than anyone, but has a hard time telling anyone else. Then some peculiar events begin to take place. A Bad Case of the Stripes brings those inside feelings of not being true to yourself to the surface and lets children hear that they can, and should, express themselves for who they are and not be scared to use their voice!
For School Age Children (6 years old – 10 years old) and Children with Special Needs
An Exceptional Children’s Guide to Touch
By: McKinley Hunter Manasco, Katharine Manasco (Illustrator)
This friendly picture book explains in simple terms how to tell the difference between acceptable and inappropriate touch, helping the child stay safe.
For Young Adults
By Laurie Halse Anderson
In this powerful novel, an utterly believable heroine with a bitterly ironic voice delivers a blow to the hypocritical world of high school. She speaks for many a disenfranchised teenager while demonstrating the importance of speaking up for oneself.
