You can’t learn everything in a book — but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a head start. Reading a book before bedtime is the perfect way to introduce your kids to mindfulness while also getting in some much-needed cuddle time. Kids come head-to-head with unfamiliar emotions on a regular basis, and unlike adults, they have little to fall back on to cope. Children’s books are an accessible way to distill an advanced subject into something they can grasp, and help them start down the path to mindful living at a young age. 

Here are some of our favorite mindfulness books for kids:

I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness

I Am Peace teaches kids different ways to manage their emotions and make decisions by learning how to be in the present. The story gently encourages kids to appreciate the world around them with calming watercolor illustrations.

Age Range: 4 – 8 Years

Puppy Mind

From the beloved illustrator of Clifford the Big Red Dog, Puppy Mind follows a young boy who discovers his mind is a lot like a puppy’s — constantly wandering to and fro. Puppy Mind teaches kids to take control of their minds. They’ll learn to live presently with the aid of kid-friendly deep breathing techniques. 

Age Range: 3 – 7 Years

The Lemonade Hurricane: A Story of Mindfulness and Meditation

If you’re looking for a great intro to meditation, The Lemonade Hurricane is the perfect book for your little one. Through this adorably-illustrated book, kids can learn the benefits of meditation along with the main characters. They’ll learn to “calm the hurricane within” themselves. It’s a simple and straightforward approach to mindfulness with a powerful message. 

Age Range: 4 – 8 Years

My Magic Breath: Finding Calm Through Mindful Breathing

My Magic Breath helps kids clear out negative thoughts and enter a calming space through the practice of deep breathing (or magic breaths). Between the easy-to-follow steps and colorful illustrations, it’s a perfect way to introduce kids to mindfulness. Great for at home or in the classroom!
 
Age Range: 4 – 8 Years

Interested in more mindfulness books for kids that are focused on social-emotional learning? check out our blog Teaching About Relationships: SEL Books for Home and Classroom.

Alyssa Morgan