Picture books tagged with: anxiety

William, The What If Wonder

A story about an anxious boy's first day at school that will help children recognise the difference between worry and reality.

Many children can feel insecure out of their comfort zone and are therefore "unhappy" if something goes wrong - this book strives to acknowledge that these feelings are normal, and that there are ways to feel better.

The Worry Box

A great choice for children with occasional worries, the bear in the story is given strategies to help ease his anxiety.

The Boy in the Big Blue Glasses

A picture book which acknowledges that getting used to wearing glasses can be a challenge for some children. The boy in the story ultimately grows to accept them.

Super Duper You

A positive picture book that encourages children to celebrate their uniqueness and stop worrying about not fitting in with the crowd.

The Bravest Fish

The Bravest Fish is a delightful book that follows the journey of a little fish, Stanley, after he is separated from his school and fish family. The book follows Stanley’s journey through the ocean to find his family. The story highlights the importance of being positive, never giving up and harnessing strength and bravery.

Betsy Goes to the Doctor

A story about a little girl of pre-school age called Betsy who feels unwell and is taken to see the Doctor for the first time by her mummy. She is worried about letting the Doctor look at her sore ear, but is put at ease when the kind Doctor looks at her toy penguin first.

You Make Your Parents Super Happy

Written to reassure children in separating families that both parents love them and this will never change no matter what happens.

Rooster Wore Skinny Jeans

An entertaining and amusing story that encourages children to be comfortable with and proud of who they are.

Malala’s Magic Pencil

An uplifting and empowering true story about a young girl who achieved world-wide respect for standing up for her beliefs.

Suzie Goes On An Aeroplane

This is a colourful and cheerful book that will teach a child all about flying in an aeroplane. It tells the reader what to expect at every stage of the journey, with some helpful advice thrown in.

Scrambled Heads

This illustrated book aims to support children who are suffering with their mental health. It would also be useful to their siblings, family, friends and classmates, and also to children of parents who are suffering with poor mental health.

Visiting Grandad’s New Home

A charming, positive story to help children to understand dementia and care home life for a grandparent.

Far Apart Close in Heart

Far Apart Close in Heart investigates many of the feelings a child with an incarcerated parent might have, including confusion, anger, sadness, isolation and shame. Above all, this book will help a child to realise that they are not alone in experiencing these feelings.

Hudson Hates School

A useful introduction to dyslexia for children, this book reassures children that dyslexia should not be a barrier to success if it is properly recognised and managed.

Will You Be My Friend?

This is a very useful guide to help children understand how friendships work. The content can be discussed with an adult, but could also be used as a self-help guide - a go-to resource if needed - to help children through tricky situations with their friends.

Monster in the Hood

This story tackles the fear of the unknown, and helps a child to consider that situations they might initially think are scary can turn out to be harmless, and even enjoyable. It also challenges prejudice.

Always and Forever

Comforting children who have experienced bereavement or other loss and providing gentle reassurance that over time their pain will ease.

I Don’t Want To Talk About It

For children whose parents are getting divorced

Get Well Soon

Allaying fears children may have when a loved one is sick and needs to spend time in hospital.

Under the Bed

Explores the themes of ghosts and monsters, fear of the dark and bedtime.

Killer Gorilla

Good for not judging people before you know them

Chester and Daisy Move On

Children moving from foster care to adoption

The Huge Bag of Worries

A good starting point to encourage children to discuss their anxieties and fears. It may also help children to realise that many children suffer with anxiety.

I Feel Bullied (Your Feelings)

An informative book that covers many aspects of bullying and being bullied.

Princess and the Castle

Subject matter includes adapting to a parent's new partner and overcoming fears

Little Mouse’s Big Book of Fears

A child may recognise some of his own fears on the pages of this book, and feel like he is 'less alone' with them. Provides a good starting point for a conversation on phobias and anxieties.