Skills

Picture books that encourage young children to develop important life skills such as getting dressed for themselves, learning to swim, learning to use the potty or toilet, and washing themselves.

Getting Dressed

Books which encourage children to dress themselves. Some promote the idea that getting dressed can be fun, while other books help children to make decisions on what type of clothing is appropriate for different situations.

Learning to Swim

Books about learning to swim or visiting a swimming pool. These books may also be useful for children who have a fear/phobia of water.

Using The Potty / Toilet

Books which help children through the transition from nappies to using a potty or toilet. Many books acknowledge that accidents are part of the process and are not something to be ashamed of.

Washing & Good Hygiene

While some children really look forward to bath time and never have to be nagged to look after their teeth, others will go to any lengths to avoid having to wash, comb their hair, or brush their teeth.

Now Wash Your Hands

A playful and humorous picture book which encourages young children to wash their hands. It simply explains what germs are and how they can give you a 'nasty bug'.

Jabari Jumps

A lovely exploration of how it feels to face your fears.

Little By Little

Showing how, step by small step, confidence can build when learning something new. It may also appeal to a child who is learning how to swim, or is frightened of the water.

Lulu’s Loo

Makes potty training appealing and fun and reassures children that having accidents at this time is normal and nothing to worry about.

I Don’t Want to Wash My Hands!

A good choice of picture book to share with a child who is reluctant to wash their hands.

When a Dragon Comes to Stay

This lovely picture book promotes positive behaviour, but also gently suggests that even the most good-mannered and co-operative amongst us may struggle to be 'good' sometimes. A great starting point for a conversation about manners, treating others well and sharing.

Small Elephant’s Bathtime

Small children who are reluctant to take a bath or wash may recognise themselves in this simple and sweet book. There is a message for the reader here: co-operating with your parents is not so bad after all, and can lead to a lot of fun!

Edie

Inquisitive children who love to help will engage with Edie. They will be able to relate to her, and understands what she is doing. Furthermore, readers can be encouraged to look closely at the pictures, to see how any help Edie is giving might be received, and to think of ways in which their own helping strategies might be improved. This book affectionately explains a child’s thought processes, and reminds the adult reader that perhaps what might sometimes be seen as “naughtiness” is often just a small person’s way of helping.

On Your Potty!

A useful book to use while potty/toilet training as it encourages a child to use a potty.

Manners in School

By encouraging children to behave in a thoughtful, polite and caring manner at school.

Hugh Shampoo

Children who dislike having their hair brushed, washed or cut may identify with the boy in the story.

I Don’t Want to Have a Bath!

Encouraging bathing and good hygiene and promoting co-operation.

Learn to Swim (Topsy & Tim)

Getting Dressed

Encouraging children to begin to get dressed independently and think about what sort of clothing is suitable for different situations.

Pirate Pete’s Potty

Bear and Me

Patience/Growing Up/Friendship

Peppa Goes Swimming

Ready, Steady, Grow!

Describing to the very young positive things they can do to help their bodies grow strong and healthy. May also reassure a child eager to 'be grown up' that each day, little by little, they are moving towards this. Personal safety issues, healthy eating and good hygiene are also touched upon.