Recommended Books for Children's Mental Health Week
In 2025, Place2Be's Children's Mental Health Week, will take place from the 3rd-9th February. The theme this year is Know Yourself, Grow Yourself.
As it is quickly approaching, we thought we would share some of our favourite picture books that explore different emotions. This article focusses on dealing with and understanding anger and grumpiness.
1) Ravi's Roar by Tom Percival
Reading Age from 3-5
Ravi's Roar is part of Tom Percival's series A Big Bright Feelings book (which are all worth checking out.)
It is a story about Ravi, the youngest and smallest member of the family, who is having a bad day and feels very cross. So he lets out the tiger within but quickly notices that no one wants to play with him anymore.
We really like this book as it starts with a message from the author, which are questions children can ask themselves when they are feeling angry. We know that some children will also enjoy that Ravi becomes a tiger in the story. We also love that it makes it really clear not only how to cope with anger but the consequences it can have, in a really child friendly way.
2) Barbara Throws a Wobbler by Nadia Shireen
Reading Age from 3-5
Barbara is not having a good day and as the day goes on, things only get worse. So Barbara gets angry and a large, red, jelly like cloud appears above her head. Everyone tries to make her feel better. Can Barbara start to feel better and make the 'wobbler' disappear?
We think children will really enjoy the humour in this book. Also, there is a bad mood key with lots of different types of wobblers, from the sulk to the seethe.
3) Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang, illustrated by Max Lang
Reading Age from 3-5
Jim Panzee wakes up and realises that nothing is right but doesn't understand why. His neighbour Norman suggests that maybe he is grumpy. Jim insists that he isn't grumpy but nothing can make him feel better. That is until his friend Norman helps him to understand that he will feel better soon.
This book is humorous but also helps children to realise that emotions will come and go if given a little bit of time.
If you are looking recommended books that explore other emotions, check out other articles here:
Children's Mental Health Week: books that focus on sadness, what it is, why it is necessary and how to help someone who is feeling sad.
Or if you're looking to find out more about our digital reading record, find out more about Pageticker here.
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