25 Best Self Help Books for Kids For A Better Life

As parents, we all want our children to thrive and succeed in life.

We can offer guidance and support, but our kids sometimes need extra help in developing important life skills. And that’s where self-help books for children come in.

These books can be an incredible tool for building self-confidence, enhancing social skills, and developing problem-solving abilities.

But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best self-help books for kids and provide tips for selecting the perfect one for your child.

Table of Contents

Benefits of a book for children’s personal development

Books are an important part of a child’s life for several reasons.

Books can provide children with the tools to navigate a wide range of life situations.
Building self-confidence and self-esteem.
Encouraging self-reflection and emotional intelligence
Developing problem-solving skills and social skills
Books expose children to a world of imagination.
Help them to improve their creativity and critical thinking skills.
It provides children information about the world, people, and different cultures.
It can improve children’s language skills, as they are exposed to new words and sentence structures.
Books are a source of comfort and solace for children and can be used to help them grow emotionally.
Help to deal with a range of emotions and experiences, from fear & anger to joy and love.
Promoting mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
Enhancing self-awareness and understanding of personal strengths and weaknesses.
Helping kids navigate challenges and transitions in their lives, such as moving or starting a new school.

Reading should not be presented to children as a chore or duty. It should be offered to them as a precious gift.
Kate DiCamillo

How to Choose the Right Book for Your Child

Choosing the right self-help book for your child can seem like a daunting task, but here are some tips to help make the process easier:

1. Consider your child’s interests

You should look for books that align with your child’s interests. Whether it’s a specific topic like self love, positivity, or a particular type of story.

2. Look for age-appropriate content

Make sure the book is written at an appropriate reading level and covers content that is appropriate for your children and maturity.

3. Seek out books with engaging visuals

Children often respond well to books with colorful illustrations or photos. So choose a book with interesting pictures to keep your child interested.

4. Read reviews from other and online

Take reviews from other parents and trusted sources to get an idea of what the book covers and if it’s a good fit for your child.

5. Consider your child’s learning style

Think about how your child learns best. If your child is a visual learner, consider a book with lots of pictures or illustrations.

If your child learns best by doing, search for books with activities or exercises.

Know More: How To Effectively Read Self Help Books For Lasting Change

“A room without books is like a body without a soul.”
Marcus Tullius Cicero

25 Best Books For Kids Development

These twenty five books for children will give your child the knowledge and support they need to succeed.

So, let’s begin our journey of wisdom.

1. The 7 Habits of Happy Kids by Sean Covey

Sean Covey is the son of Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

The book is aimed at children and teaches them the importance of developing good habits to achieve happiness and success in life.

The seven habits are:

Be proactive
Begin with the end in mind
Put first things first
Think win-win
Seek first to understand
Then to be understood
Synergize
Sharpen the saw

The book provides practical examples and activities for children to understand and implement these habits in their daily lives.

It provides a roadmap for happiness and success by encouraging positive habits.

It is a great tool for children to learn and practice habits that will help them become confident, resilient, and well-rounded

2. The Power of Positive Thinking for Young People by Norman Vincent Peale

The power of positive thinking for young people by Norman Vincent Peale is a book that helps young people have a positive outlook on life.

The book teaches the principles of positive thinking and provides practical techniques for harnessing the power of positive thought.

It encourages young people to focus on their strengths, set achievable goals, and adopt an optimistic mindset.

Through engaging stories and real-life examples, the book inspires readers to believe in themselves and their ability to overcome challenges and achieve success.

3. The Feelings Book by Todd Parr

Todd Parr’s The Feelings Book speaks to young readers uniquely, providing insight into the world of children and exploring the range of emotions they experience.

Discover the profound messages hidden in this delightful story. It is a great way to learn about emotions and how to express them.

Through vivid illustrations and modern humor, this beloved story highlights the importance of being open to talking about how we feel.

4. Mindful Games For Kids: 50 Fun Activities to Stay Present, Improve Concentration, and Understand Emotions

With Mindful Games for Kids, children ages 4-8 can start learning those skills and feeling more in control. Engaging activities help teach kids to calm themselves, focus more easily, and even be kinder to others―all using the principles of mindfulness.

Nurture a calm and focused mind with the fun and engaging mindfulness activities in mindful games for kids.

Empower your child to thrive in today’s fast-paced world with the simple yet effective mindfulness exercises in this book.

Discover the power of mindfulness and help your child develop emotional intelligence, empathy, and resilience with Mindful Kids.

5. How to Be a Friend: A Guide to Maing Friends and Keeping Them by Laurie Krasny Brown

The book talks about how to approach others, how to communicate clearly, how to deal with conflicts, and how to show support and appreciation to friends.

Unleash the power of friendship and build meaningful relationships with the helpful tips in How to Be a Friend.

Discover the secrets to making and keeping friends with the expert guidance in this essential guide.

There are tips and activities to strengthen existing friendships and make new ones.

The book is written in a clear and accessible style and is suitable for people of all ages.

6. Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell

Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon is a great book for children and a great tool for promoting self-love and positive self-image.

Molly Lou Melon is a young girl who learns to embrace her unique qualities and stand tall with confidence despite being small and having a funny voice.

Through her experiences, the book teaches valuable lessons about self-esteem, perseverance, and the importance of being true to oneself.

7. Be Brave Little One by Marianne Richmond

The book is a heartwarming and encouraging story that encourages young children to embrace bravery and face their fears.

Through beautiful illustrations and gentle prose, the book offers comfort and support to young readers and helps them develop resilience and confidence.

Be Brave Little One reminds children that they are strong and can always overcome their fears.

This book is a must-have for every little one’s library.

8. The Kindness Quilt by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace

The book follows a group of animals as they come together to create a quilt made of patches representing acts of kindness they have performed.

As they work, they learn the true value of kindness and how it can bring people together and make the world a better place.

The Kindness Quilt teaches young readers about the power of kindness, compassion, and the importance of spreading love and positivity in the world.

9. The Confidence Code for Girls by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman

The Confidence Code for Girls is written by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman.

It focuses on empowering girls to develop confidence and overcome self-doubt.

The authors give girls the tools and strategies they need to build confidence, build resilience, and succeed in all areas of life.

An essential read for girls and parents alike, this book is a powerful tool for empowering the next generation of confident and successful women.

10. The Self-Esteem Workbook for Teens by Lisa M. Schab

The book is a practical guide that helps teens build self-esteem and overcome negative thoughts and feelings.

There are tips and strategies for improving mental health and overall well-being in the book that covers positive self-image, resilience, goal-setting, and relationships.

The self esteem workbook for Teens is an effective and engaging resource for teens and parents.

It helps young people build a strong foundation of self-esteem and confidence and succeed in life.

11. Just as You Are: A Teen’s Guide to Self-Acceptance and Lasting Self-Esteem by Kelly Skeen and Michelle Skeen

The book is designed to help teens navigate the challenges of adolescence and develop a strong sense of self.

Stop comparing yourself to others-you’re special just as you are. In this fun, practical guide, you’ll learn how to silence your nit-picky inner critic, cultivate self-compassion, and discover what really matters to you.

The author gives teens advice and guidance on a variety of topics, such as self-discovery, body image, and learning to appreciate your strengths.

12. Gratitude: A Journal for Teens by Scarlet Paolicchi

The journal is designed to help teens cultivate an attitude of gratitude and improve their overall well-being

Teens are encouraged to reflect on the things they are thankful for and practice gratitude daily in the journal.

The space also allows teens to record their thoughts, feelings, and experiences to improve their outlook on life.

It is an excellent resource for helping teens build rebound, improve their mental health, and live a happier and more fulfilling life.

Every teenager should have a journal in his or her library. It can be used for daily reflection or to help with personal development.

13. Chicken Soup for the Preteen Soul by Jack Canfield

Chicken Soup for the Preteen Soul is a book in the famous “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series, specifically written for preteens, typically between the ages of 9 and 13.

It contains a collection of stories and anecdotes that aim to inspire, motivate, and entertain young readers, covering a wide range of topics such as friendships, family, school, self-esteem, and more.

The book aims to provide a positive and empowering message to preteens, helping them navigate the challenges and changes of adolescence.

14. I am Peace, A Book of Mindfulness by Susan Verde

Susan Verde and Peter H. Reynolds illustrated A Book of Mindfulness, a children’s picture book written by Susan Verde.

The book is a gentle and uplifting guide to mindfulness and self-awareness.

The author uses simple and lyrical language to encourage readers to be present, aware, and peaceful, and to embrace the world with wonder and joy.

The book also provides practical tips and techniques for incorporating mindfulness into daily life, and encourages readers to explore the power of their thoughts and emotions.

15. The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel

12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind is a parenting book written by neuropsychiatric Daniel J. Siegel and parenting expert Tina Payne Bryson.

The book provides practical, research-based strategies for parenting children in ways that support their healthy development and well-being.

The authors explain how to create an environment that supports the growth of a child’s intellect, emotions, and relationships.

The authors use real-life examples to show how to use the latest neuroscience findings to help children manage their emotions.

Recent neuroscience findings address common parenting challenges such as managing tantrums, fostering empathy, and helping children regulate their emotions.

16. When I Feel Angry by Cornelia Maude Spelman

The book is designed to help children understand and manage their emotions, specifically anger.

As a young character experiences different situations that trigger feelings of anger, the book explores various strategies for managing and expressing those feelings in healthy ways

The text is simple and accessible, making it an excellent tool for parents, teachers, and caregivers to introduce children to the concept of emotional regulation.

When I Feel Angry is a great book for kids because of its engaging illustrations and relatable storyline.

17. The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes is a children’s book written by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein.

The story follows the journey of Beatrice Bottom well, a young girl who never makes mistakes.

She becomes famous for her perfect record, but as she grows older, she realizes that mistakes are essential for learning and growth.

The book uses humor and relatable situations to teach children the importance of making mistakes and not fearing them.

The story encourages children to view mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow.

18. Just Breathe: Meditation, Mindfulness, Movement, and More by Mallika Chopra

The purpose of this book is to provide a comprehensive guide to finding inner peace and happiness through a combination of meditation, mindfulness, movement, and other self-care practices.

The author presents practical tips and techniques to help readers develop a daily mindfulness practice and find balance in their lives.

This book will help you to reduce stress, increase happiness and improve your well-being.

It is a useful resource for anyone looking to enhance their spiritual and physical health.

19. Find Your Calm: A Mindful Approach To Relieve Anxiety And Grow Your Bravery by Gabi Garcia, Marta Pineda

It is a self-help book that offers practical techniques and strategies to alleviate anxiety and increase courage through mindfulness implementations.

Written by two experienced therapists, this book provides a comprehensive guide on how to cultivate inner calm, overcome fear, and build resilience to lead a more fulfilling life.

With a clear and concise writing style, the authors aim to empower readers to take control of their mental health and achieve emotional wellbeing.

20. Rich Dad Poor Dad for Teens by Robert Kiyosaki

Rich Dad Poor Dad for Teens is a financial education book written by Robert Kiyosaki, designed specifically for teenagers.

The book offers practical and actionable advice on how to build wealth, develop financial intelligence, and create a successful financial future.

Kiyosaki’s book is based on his own experiences growing up with two fathers, one rich and one poor, and teaches important money management lessons in a fun and engaging way.

It’s a great resource for young adults who want to take control of their finances.

21. WHO MOVED MY CHEESE? for Kids by Spencer Johnson

Who Moved My Cheese? Is a popular children’s book that teaches important life lessons about change, adaptation, and the power of a positive attitude.

The book tells the story of four characters – two mice and two little people – who encounter unexpected changes in their cheese environment and must learn to adapt to find new sources of happiness and success.

Through this engaging tale, children will learn important skills that will help them navigate the challenges of life with resilience and optimism.

22. Growth Mindset Workbook for Kids by Peyton Curley

The Growth Mindset Workbook for Kids by Peyton Curley is a practical guide designed to help children develop a growth mindset.

It contains a variety of exercises, activities, and strategies that encourage children to embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, and adopt a positive attitude towards learning.

The workbook is written in a kid-friendly language and includes colorful illustrations that engage and inspire young readers.

23. How Full Is Your Bucket? For Kidsby Tom Rath, Mary Reckmeyer

The book is designed to teach children the importance of positive behavior and how it can impact their own and others’ happiness.

The central idea of the book is based on the metaphor of a bucket, where every person has an invisible bucket that can be filled with positive thoughts and actions or emptied by negativity.

The authors aim to help children understand that by being kind, helpful, and respectful, they can fill not only their own bucket but also the buckets of those around them.

With colorful illustrations and simple language, the book provides an engaging and uplifting lesson that can help children develop empathy and positive behavior.

24. 365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne’s Precepts by R. J. Palacio

365 Days of Wonder book is a collection of inspirational quotes and precepts, one for each day of the year, that encourages readers to be kind, empathetic, and accepting towards others.

The precepts are introduced by Mr. Browne, a teacher in Wonder, and are based on his classroom’s monthly themes of character education.

The book is aimed at both children and adults, and is a great source of daily inspiration and reflection.

25. Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts by Susan Cain, Gregory Mone

Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts is a bestselling book written by Susan Cain.

It explores the unique strengths and abilities of introverts in a world that often values extroverted traits.

Cain’s book encourages introverts to embrace their natural tendencies and offers insights on how they can use their quiet power to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

Takeaways

Many self-help books for kids focus on positive thinking, self-confidence, and self-care.

Other books emphasize the importance of kindness, generosity, and compassion,

Many of the books encourage children to live in the present moment and focus on what is happening right now, and advise on how to develop positive habits and relationships.

These books aim to empower children to take control of their lives, develop strong relationships, and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

These best self books 20 will help your child learn important life skills and become the best version of themselves.