Being parents, we all want our kids to do well and achieve their goals.
You can offer guidance and support, but your kids sometimes need extra help in developing important life skills. This is where self-help books for children come into play.
These books can help you build self-confidence, improve social skills, and solve problems.
It can be difficult to choose the right one when there are many choices.
In this blog, you will look at the best self-help books for kids and give advice on deciding the right one for your child.
“A room without books is like a body without a soul.”
Marcus Tullius Cicero

- 25 Best Books For Kids Development
- 1. The 7 Habits of Happy Kids by Sean Covey
- 2. The Power of Positive Thinking for Young People by Norman Vincent Peale
- 3. The Feelings Book by Todd Parr
- 4. Mindful Games For Kids: 50 Fun Activities to Stay Present, Improve Concentration, and Understand Emotions
- 5. How to Be a Friend: A Guide to Making Friends and Keeping Them by Laurie Krasny Brown
- 6. Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell
- 7. Be Brave Little One by Marianne Richmond
- 8. The Kindness Quilt by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace
- 9. The Confidence Code for Girls by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
- 10. The Self-Esteem Workbook for Teens by Lisa M. Schab
- 11. Just as You Are: A Teen’s Guide to Self-Acceptance and Lasting Self-Esteem by Kelly Skeen and Michelle Skeen
- 12. Gratitude: A Journal for Teens by Scarlet Paolicchi
- 13. Chicken Soup for the Preteen Soul by Jack Canfield
- 14. I am Peace, A Book of Mindfulness by Susan Verde
- 15. The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel
- 16. When I Feel Angry by Cornelia Maude Spelman
- 17. The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein
- 18. Just Breathe: Meditation, Mindfulness, Movement, and More by Mallika Chopra
- 19. Find Your Calm: A Mindful Approach To Relieve Anxiety And Grow Your Bravery by Gabi Garcia, Marta Pineda
- 20. Rich Dad Poor Dad for Teens by Robert Kiyosaki
- 21. WHO MOVED MY CHEESE? for Kids by Spencer Johnson
- 22. Growth Mindset Workbook for Kids by Peyton Curley
- 23. How Full Is Your Bucket? For Kidsby Tom Rath, Mary Reckmeyer
- 24. 365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne’s Precepts by R. J. Palacio
- 25. Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts by Susan Cain, Gregory Mone
- Benefits of a book for children’s personal development
- Do These To Improve Kids Brain Power
25 Best Books For Kids Development
These 25 books will provide your child with the knowledge and support they need to succeed.
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.
Positive habits are encouraged, which provides a roadmap for happiness and success.
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.
Learn important lessons from this fun 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 you 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.
The simple yet effective meditation exercises in this book will help your child thrive in today’s fast-paced world.
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 Making Friends and Keeping Them by Laurie Krasny Brown
The book discusses ways 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.
The book helps young readers develop resilience and confidence through beautiful illustrations and gentle prose.
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 helpful guide, you’ll learn how to stop being critical of yourself, be kind to yourself, and figure out what matters most to you.
The author gives teens advice and guidance on various 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.
Growing up with two fathers, one rich and one poor, inspired Kiyosaki’s book, which imparts valuable financial wisdom in a fun and engaging manner.
It’s a great resource for young adults who want to take control of their finances. Here you can read the summary of the book Rich Dad Poor Dad For Teens.
Read More : Rich Dad Poor Dad for Teen Book Summary
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.
Read More : Who Moved My Cheese Book Summary (Dr. Spencer Johnson)
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 empty with negativity.
The authors aim to help children understand that by being kind, helpful, and respectful, they can fill not only their 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.
In Cain’s book, introverts are urged to embrace their inner quietness and learn how to use it to their advantage in their personal and work lives.
Benefits of a book for children’s personal development
Books are an essential 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