Are you searching for engaging and heartwarming books about friendship for kids? You’ve come to the right place! Research documents the benefits of reading aloud to children and suggests that the more
children are engaged during the read aloud experience the greater the benefit to their language
and reading development. We’ve handpicked five fantastic titles that will not only entertain your kids but also teach them valuable lessons about forming and nurturing friendships. These books are perfect for kids with thinking and learning differences, as they promote understanding, empathy, and inclusivity.
Table of Contents
1. A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead
When Amos McGee, a kind zookeeper, falls ill, his animal friends decide to pay him a visit. This heartwarming story teaches kids the importance of reciprocity in friendships and how friends can support each other during tough times. The beautiful illustrations by Erin E. Stead will captivate your child’s imagination.
| Author | Illustrator | Age Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philip C. Stead | Erin E. Stead | 4-8 years | $12.99 |
2. The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig
Let’s talk about another fantastic addition to your child’s reading list – a book about a kid named Brian. Brian’s a bit of a wallflower at school; maybe your kid can relate to that. Things take a turn when a new kid, Justin, enters the scene.
Now, this is where the magic happens. Brian, being his kind soul, reaches out and makes Justin feel right at home. It’s a beautiful narrative of empathy and inclusivity, showing our little ones how important it is to embrace those who may feel left out. Mainly for kids navigating learning and thinking differences, this book provides a relatable journey. Remember, having books about friendship for kids on their shelves could be a game-changer for their social growth. Plus, it could be your secret weapon for bedtime bonding!
| Author | Illustrator | Age Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trudy Ludwig | Patrice Barton | 6-9 years | $10.99 |
Read More: Shared Book Reading
Read more: How to Help Your Child Make Friends
3. Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller
In this delightful book, a young girl named Tanisha spills grape juice on her dress, and her classmate wonders how to make her feel better. Be Kind explores the many ways we can show kindness to others, making it a valuable resource for teaching empathy and compassion to neurodivergent kids.
| Author | Illustrator | Age Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pat Zietlow Miller | Jen Hill | 3-6 years | $11.99 |
Read more: How to Make Friends at School | A Step-by-Step Guide
4. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
Parents, there’s a gem of a book that’s a powerful conversation starter about diversity and acceptance for your young ones. “The Day You Begin” spins an inspiring tale about a group of children, each feeling a bit out of place at school. The twist? As these kids open up about their stories, they discover that everyone brings something unique. This realization sparks the courage to embrace their individuality and connect over shared experiences. Particularly for kids wrestling with learning and thinking differences, this book about friendship for kids can be a real game-changer. The best part is that it nudges them to find common ground with others, despite their differences. Worth a place on their nightstand.
| Author | Illustrator | Age Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacqueline Woodson | Rafael López | 5-8 years | $13.99 |
5. My Friend Isabelle by Eliza Woloson
My Friend Isabelle is a charming story about two friends, Isabelle and Charlie, who have different abilities. This book celebrates the beauty of diversity and teaches kids the importance of accepting and valuing each other’s differences. It’s an excellent choice for promoting understanding and inclusivity among neurodivergent kids.
| Author | Illustrator | Age Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eliza Woloson | Bryan Gough | 4-8 years | $14.95 |
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Time to Turn the Page on Friendship
And there you have it – five captivating books about friendship for kids that will surely leave a lasting impression on your young readers. These stories will not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons about empathy, kindness, and inclusivity. So, go ahead and share these literary gems with your neurodivergent kids, and watch as they embark on a journey of understanding and embracing the beauty of friendship in all its forms. Happy reading!
FAQs About Books About Friendship for Kids
Why are books about friendship important for kids? Books about friendship help kids understand the value of relationships, empathy, and inclusivity, which are crucial for emotional and social development.
What are some good books about friendship for kids with learning differences? "The Day You Begin" and "Brian's Story" are excellent choices that promote understanding and acceptance of thinking and learning differences.
Can reading books about friendship help kids with emotional regulation? Absolutely! Books about friendship can provide scenarios that help kids learn to navigate their feelings and emotions healthily and constructively.
How can books about friendship integrate with visual schedules or reward systems? You can incorporate these books into your child's visual schedule or use them as a reward for completing certain tasks, promoting both reading and the value of friendship.
Are there friendship-focused books that also include visual learning tools? Many books about friendship for kids utilize illustrations and visual storytelling to engage young readers and support their learning journey.
This post was originally published on 04/20/2023. It was updated on 11/06/2023.
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