Want to raise kind kids? These children's books about being kind will help you instill important values of kindness and empathy for others. Ask any parent which values they want to teach children, and kindness will make that list. We need kindness more than ever in this world, for kids to extend genuine compassion that isn't rewarded with stickers or a high-five. Small acts of kindness that's done when no one is looking. More importantly, we need kids to stick up for others. To not look the other way when they see someone needs their help, and to feel empathy for those around them. A … [Read more...]

Want to teach and discuss winter, spring, summer and fall with your child? Discover the top children's books about seasons of the year to read. Some winters in Los Angeles can still reach a high of 82 degrees—not exactly your typical winter season. Though I can't complain about the warm weather too much, I do envy other parts of the country that get to enjoy the different seasons. Where you can actually see the distinct transitions from one season to the next. As such, my kids don't always get to experience the typical seasons everyone else does. "I wish it would snow!" they'll often say … [Read more...]

Want books with environmental themes for kids? Check out these children's books about climate change, from read alouds to middle school. I'll be the first to admit that, until a few years ago, I would tune out headlines about climate change. Not that I was in denial of the plight of polar bears and monarch butterflies, or that I didn't believe that rising seas would engulf communities. I also did my part, from recycling to shopping at the farmers market. But hearing dreadful news made me feel anxious about how life would be different within my lifetime if nothing changes, not to … [Read more...]

Check out these anxiety books for kids, from going to school, dealing with separation anxiety, making mistakes, or worrying about the world. Does your child cry in the morning because her stuffed animal isn't where it was the night before? Is she fun and energetic at home, but completely different in public? Has school drop-off become such a nightmare because she cries the minute you leave? Many of us have wondered whether our kids' behaviors are normal, or if they could possibly signal anxiety problems that need to be addressed. And for good reason: while many behaviors are normal, it's … [Read more...]