Teaching coping skills is an extremely aspect of being a school counselor. There are so many instances when students (and sometimes adults) need reminders to use coping skills. One of my favorite ways to teach coping skills is through books and play! I like to teach, read and then let students try out different skills. Books can be really effective because it may not just be me reading the book. The teachers may decide to read them as well to reinforce what I’m teaching. Win-win!
Here are 10 books to help teach coping skills…
I’m Stretched by Julia Cook
I’m Stretched: A Picture Book About Using Mindfulness to Manage Stress (affiliate link) by Julia Cook is a favorite! This book teaches elementary school children the importance of self-care. Sometimes we can all be stretched too thin, even kids. Through this book, kids can learn how to have a healthy balance between school, friends, homework, and extras!
I’m Stretched: A Picture Book About Using Mindfulness to Manage Stress
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B is for Breathe by Dr. Melissa Munro Boyd
B is for Breathe: The ABCs of Coping with Fussy and Frustrating Feelings (affiliate link) by Dr. Melissa Munro Boyd. In this book, Dr. Boyd focuses on the importance of breath work for physical and emotional well-being. She takes the young reader through the ABCs of Coping with some of lifeโs big feelings.
B is for Breathe: The ABCs of Coping with Fussy and Frustrating Feelings
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Roaring Mad Riley by Allison Szczecinski
Roaring Mad Riley: An Anger Management Story for Kids (affiliate link) by Allison Szczecinski is a hit with younger students. This book demonstrates the importance of self-control, being mindful of others and being able to control some big emotions. The book has vibrant illustrations, a charming narrative, and great moral values. Roaring Mad Riley is the perfect read for children of all ages who are needing insightful anger management strategies.
Roaring Mad Riley: An Anger Management Story for Kids
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My Body Sends a Signal by Natalia Maguire
My Body Sends a Signal: Helping Kids Recognize Emotions and Express Feelings (affiliate link) by Natalia Maguire is an elementary book that helps young children learn more about their bodies and feelings. The book encourages children to become more aware of the signals their bodies send and how to interpret the signals for improved self-awareness. Through the use of simple and concise language, this book helps children learn to recognize their bodyโs signals, how to express their emotions, and how to talk about their feelings.
My Body Sends a Signal: Helping Kids Recognize Emotions and Express Feelings
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When Harley Has Anxiety by Regine Galanti
When Harley Has Anxiety: A Fun CBT Skills Activity Book to Help Manage Worries and Fears (affiliate link) by Regine Galanti is a CBT skills activity book for children. There is a cute hedgehog named Harley that teaches kids how to recognize and cope with anxiety. The bookโs intended audience are children aged 5-9, so it uses simple language, vivid illustrations, and engaging activities to help kids get back to beingโฆ. kids!
When Harley Has Anxiety: A Fun CBT Skills Activity Book to Help Manage Worries and Fears
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Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
Grumpy Monkey (affiliate link) is a story about a grump gorilla named Jim who, despite his outwardly grumpy behavior, has a heart of gold. With the help of his wise friend, Phil the monkey, Jim gradually learns to express his feelings and open his heart to others despite his initial reluctance. Throughout their adventures, Jim and Phil learn what it means to be a true friend, helping each other through thick and thin, always looking out for one another, and staying positive despite the challenges they face.
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How to take the Grrrr Out of Anger by Elizabeth Verdick
How to take the Grrrr Out of Anger (affiliate link) is a book that helps children understand, express, and manage their anger in a healthy and productive way. Elizabeth Verdick teaches children how to remain calm and confident, even when faced with overwhelming emotions. With simple, age-appropriate language and vivid illustrations, she helps children learn about expressing and managing their anger in a positive way. The author helps kids become aware of their feelings, monitor their behavior, and ultimately make better decisions. She also helps them cultivate empathy, problem-solving skills, and communication skills.
How to Take the Grrrr Out of Anger
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The Sour Grape by Jory John
The Sour Grape (The Food Group) (affiliate link), written by Jory John, is a heartwarming story about a grape who likes to hold grudges against others. Through clever character interactions and a simple but powerful message, the story teaches children how unfair grudges can be. The takeaway is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages.
The Sour Grape (The Food Group)
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Angry Me by Sandra Feder
Angry Me (affiliate link) is a book that helps readers identify and manage their own anger. This book provides readers with an insightful, positive approach to dealing with anger and its consequences. The author expresses that these feelings are normal and encourages kids to communicate their feelings.
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No Biggie! by Elycia Rubin
No Biggie! by Elycia Rubin is an inspiring book about the power of managing frustrations. Everyone gets frustrated, kids and adults! The author provides a light-hearted positive outlook to managing everyday frustrations. Even when things donโt go as expected the first time.
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What are your favorite Coping Skills books? Comment below and let me know! I am always looking to grow my SEL library!
If coping skills are your jam… check out these coping skills cards!
Also… I have lessons to teach coping skills too! Check those out below!
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