As COVID-19 continues to take over the news and our daily lives, it is likely that young children have questions and concerns about what has been happening. At the same time, talking about scary events might seem daunting, as we worry that our words might instill more fear in children.
To help start the conversation, we share a few children’s books that address worries and concerns, as well as some mindfulness books to help children learn to cope with their emotions. These books can be shared with families or read in a small group with children if you are still providing care.
This story was specifically developed to help young children and families talk about their experiences and feelings related to COVID-19. In the story, the coronavirus has spread to Littletown causing changes in everyone’s lives. This story is available to download for free in English and in Spanish.
Written by Chandra Ippen and illustrated by Erich Ippen, this book introduces big feelings in a very special, child-friendly way. A little pot has a hard time keeping in his stories and feelings as the heat builds up inside. This story creates an opportunity to introduce difficult conversations about big feelings and tough situations. The book’s illustrator reads the book out loud on a Youtube video.
Written by Mariam Gates and illustrated by Sarah Jane Hinder, this book is a great way to introduce foundational concepts of mindfulness and intentional breathing. The techniques shared in this book can be practiced by children (and adults too) during times of uncertainty and fear. The author reads the story with a group of young children, who demonstrate the mindful breathing examples on this video.
This book, written by popular children’s author, Todd Parr, is a colorful, cheerful story that offers solutions and comfort to children who are feeling overwhelmed. A free read-aloud video by the book’s author is available on Youtube.
Written by Christopher Willard and Daniel Rechtschaffen, with illustrations by Holly Clifton-Brown, this book explores the alphabet while introducing mindful breathing exercises that are especially beneficial for children who are feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Here’s a video showing a teacher and children demonstrating the breaths.
NAEYC’s Book Recommendations for Infants and Toddlers 
The Many Benefits of Reading with Infants
