Helping your kids learn about self-love early on can make a big difference in their lives. When children are between 0 and 7 years old, their brains are like sponges, soaking up everything around them. They’re in a phase where they’re learning how to be human, and you, as their parents, are their main role models. So, laying a strong foundation of self-love during this time can really improve their lives. If you’re looking for books to assist in teaching your little ones about self-love, here are some recommendations.
Self-love 101 for kids by Karla Jimenez
This book contains images that encompass all the different shades of self love. From doing what you love to setting boundaries. This book contains beautiful vintage illustrations and incredible self-love messages.
My heart by Corinna Luyken
This book contains beautiful illustrations. The author embraces the importance of the heart and emotions. How a kid can understand the concept of emotions and the importance of the heart in our lives.
I like me by Nancy Carlson
The ebullient pig-heroine is a happy adherent to the adage “Love Thyself.” Meet Nancy Carlson’s peppy pig, a character who is full of good feelings about herself. Her story will leave little ones feeling good about themselves, too!
“I like my curly tail, my round tummy and my tiny little feet.” – Nancy Carlson
Tomorrow I’ll be brave by Jessica Hische
“Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave” by Jessica Hische is a delightful children’s book with captivating illustrations that convey a powerful message of hope and resilience. The beautifully crafted pages take young readers on an imaginative journey, inspiring creativity and curiosity. The vivid artwork makes it an engaging experience for both children and adults, making it a heartwarming addition to any reading list.
Dr. Seuss’s Every Voice Counts!: Make Yourself Heard!
This book is about encouraging someone to speak up for their beliefs and raise their voices and save their world, this humorous giftbook urges readers to speak up and make the world a better place. It teaches the kids to speak up when something feels wrong, self-love is all about speaking your mind, and not let fear hold you back.
I am enough by Grace Byers
The perfect debut picture book for our times: a lyrical ode to self-confidence and kindness, for girls from every background and every color.
You are Awesome by Susann Hoffmann
A picture book that empowers and celebrates the belief that every child has the potential to be anything they desire! From being smart and kind to bold and funny, there are countless ways for kids to showcase their awesomeness. Through its sweet and straightforward text paired with vibrant illustrations, this book beautifully emphasizes the idea that children can embody various qualities. The underlying message is clear and powerful: You have the ability to become anything you aspire to be!
When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner , illustrated by David Catrow
In the enchanting book, “When God Made You,” this message is beautifully conveyed through playful and charming rhyme, accompanied by vivid, fantastical illustrations. The book serves as an inspiration for young readers, encouraging them to explore and understand their special gifts.
Alma and How She Got Her Name by by Juana Martinez-Neal
If you inquire about her, Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela will tell you she has an abundance of names – six to be exact! How did such a petite person end up with such a grand name?
Alma seeks answers from Daddy and discovers the stories behind each name. There’s Sofia, the grandmother with a love for books and flowers; Esperanza, the great-grandmother with a deep longing for travel; José, the artistic grandfather, and more. As the tales of her names unfold, Alma begins to feel that her name is a perfect reflection of her heritage. It dawns on her that one day she, too, will have a unique story to share.
Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You by Sonia Sotomayor, illustrated by Rafael López.
Navigating the feeling of being different, especially as a child, can be challenging. However, Just Ask by Sonia Sotomayor reminds us that just as various plants and flowers contribute to the beauty of a garden, the diversity of people enriches our world, making it more vibrant and wonderful.
Sotomayor, drawing from her own experiences as a child diagnosed with diabetes, celebrates the different abilities that kids, and people of all ages, possess.
The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
Adjusting to a new school is tough, especially when your name is a challenge for others to pronounce. Unhei, a recent arrival from Korea, faces this dilemma and is worried about fitting in. On the first day of school, instead of introducing herself, she opts to pick an American name from a jar. Yet, whether considering Suzy, Laura, or Amanda, nothing seems to click. Fortunately, with the support of a newfound friend, Unhei discovers that the best name is her own.
The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade by Justin Roberts, illustrated by Christian Robinson.
Sally is not your average observer—she takes note of everything, from the janitor’s twenty-seven keys to the bullying unfolding on the playground. Fed up with the injustice around her, Sally decides it’s time to speak up. Taking a courageous stand against the bullies, she proves that even a small girl can make a significant impact.
Me And My Fear by Francesca Sanna.
A touching and relevant narrative about embracing vulnerability, this story delves into a little girl’s anxieties as an immigrant. It initiates a conversation about various fears, highlighting that everyone grapples with fear in some form. The narrative encourages understanding and empathy, emphasizing that sharing our fears is a universal experience.
The Unusual Penguin by Madeleine MacRae and Anna Fernandez.
“The Unusual Penguin” is a heartfelt and insightful narrative that resonates with every child and adult who has ever felt different or unique, not quite fitting in with the people around them. Drawing inspiration from the author’s personal journey as an “Unusual Penguin” and her observations of her son’s early experiences, the story beautifully captures the challenges of being misunderstood and the sadness that may accompany being unconventional. Yet, it also illuminates the transformative joy that comes with discovering one’s true self and learning to appreciate one’s individuality.
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein.
Beatrice Bottomwell is renowned for one remarkable feat—she has never, not even once, made a mistake. From flawless math homework to impeccably coordinated socks, and always clinching the annual talent show victory, she’s rightfully dubbed “The Girl Who Never Makes Mistakes” by the entire town. However, one day the inevitable occurs—Beatrice makes a colossal mistake in front of everyone! In the end, readers, especially those inclined towards perfectionism, will discover that life becomes more enjoyable when you embrace everything, including the mistakes.
This lovely books teaches the different shades of Love with lovely illustrations. From the best selling author Oliver Jeffers, “The day the crayons quit”.
Do you want to know more about self-love as a parent?
Check out our blog post about How to love myself? and What is self-love?
Keep loving yourself,
Vanessa Jimenez x