We live in a world full of noise, movement, and emotion. Finding calm and quiet, both physically and emotionally, can be challenging. Yet such skills are increasingly needed, as they lead to healthier emotional regulation, resilience, and greater meaning for both children and adults. In these books, children will learn skills to help them center their thoughts and find peace, even in their noisy world!
Breathe Like a Bear by Kira Willey, illustrated by Anni Betts
Bear is looking for a cave to take a good, long rest. When he finds one, he breathes in slowly, and then he lets all the air out. As he prepares for his rest, he continues to breathe in and out, and readers can, too! This is a perfect book to help a child relax before a good, long rest.
Hurry Up by Kate Dopirak, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal
In this sweet story, a girl hurries through her day, from waking up to taking the bus and getting through school. But she also remembers to slow down. She makes a wish, listens, and explores. This beautiful rhyming story with its light and airy illustrations reminds us that what’s really important is worth slowing down to enjoy.
I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
As the narrator breathes in and out, they realize that they don’t have to feel like a boat without an anchor, being carried away by the sea. They ground themselves by connecting with earth, with nature, and with themself. And once they are filled with peace, they share their peace with others! This simple story has simple text and colorful illustrations that help to guide readers to greater inner–and outer!—peace.
Quiet by Tomie DePaola
As a grandfather takes his grandchildren for a nature walk, they realize that from dragonflies to frogs, everything is in a hurry! Then Grandfather invites the children to sit still. As they are quiet, they see, listen, and notice the things that are also at rest. This simple story is a perfect reminder to breathe and enjoy the beauty of quiet stillness.
Alphabreaths: The ABCs of Mindful Breathing by Christopher Willard & Daniel Rechtschaffen, illustrated by Holly Clifton-Brown
In this wonderful ABC book, readers are guided through all kinds of mindfulness activities that will help them slow down, breathe deeply, and tap into their senses. From Alligator Breath to Ice Breath, Mountain Breath, and Zzzz Breath, there are all kinds of ways to have fun while breathing in and out! With its cheerful illustrations, this book provides a fantastic resource for individuals and class groups to learn literacy and mindfulness.
The Lemonade Hurricane by Licia Morelli, illustrated by Jennifer Morris
Emma wants to play with her little brother, but Henry is a lemonade-loving hurricane! Emma tries to teach him how to stop, listen, bow, and breathe—will Henry be able to slow down enough to give it a shot and connect with his sister? This sweet book includes notes by the author on mindfulness and incorporating the techniques described in the text.
The Unstoppable Jamie by Joy Givens
When Jamie wears his cape, nothing can stop him! But when he travels to New York City for the Buddy Walk at Times Square, there is so much noise, so many honking cars, so many people—even Jamie’s cape shuts down. Jamie must focus on breathing to remember what really makes him a superhero. This beautiful story is based on the author’s experience with her son, who has Downs Syndrome. Packed with colorful illustrations and end pages with extra information about Downs Syndrome, this book it perfect for all kinds of kids!
Moon by Alison Oliver
Moon always has a list of responsible things to do, but she wonders what it would like to be free and wild. One evening, she meets a wolf in her backyard. The wolf takes her to his pack, and they teach her all the wild, wolfy ways– from how to howl to how to be still and listen. And when Moon returns home, she will never be the same. With beautiful illustrations and simple text, this story gives a beautiful perspective on what it means to be wild and free, even in the midst of everyday life.
Meddy Teddy by Apple Jordan, illustrated by Nicholas Hong
While his parents sleep, Meddy takes a morning walk through the forest. As he meets with friends along the way, he practices mindfulness and multiple authentic yoga poses! With engaging, easy-to-follow text, colorful illustrations, and specific illustrations of Meddy as he performs each yoga pose, this is a perfect book to begin (or end) the day!
My Magic Breath by Nick Ortner
This story describes how to use your breath to help regulate emotions. When the magic breath goes in, it can help to focus on happy thoughts and then blow sad thoughts away. Color watercolor illustrations accompany the story!