Are you searching for resources to help your child understand and embrace empathy? Empathy can help kids when they become adults bridge differences in their communities and the world at large. We’ve curated a list of 5 must-have books about empathy for kids that will captivate their minds and teach them valuable life lessons. These books are perfect for kids with thinking and learning differences, as they provide engaging stories and relatable characters that will resonate with them.
Table of Contents
1. “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” by Carol McCloud
Introduce your child to the concept of empathy with this heartwarming book that uses the metaphor of filling buckets to explain how our actions affect others. “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” teaches kids the importance of kindness, respect, and appreciation, making it an excellent choice for children with thinking and learning differences.
- Age Range: 4-9 years
- Genre: Picture Book
- Themes: Empathy, Kindness, Emotional Intelligence
“Which language games will help my kid the fastest?” 👇
Goally’s tablet has some of the top language learning games & apps that help kids learn their first 50 words, practice finger dexterity & fine motor skills, AND communicate with AAC.
2. “The Invisible Boy” by Trudy Ludwig
Help your child understand the power of inclusion with “The Invisible Boy.” This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of Brian, a quiet boy who feels invisible until a new classmate recognizes his talents. It’s a touching tale that encourages kids to embrace empathy and reach out to others who may feel left out.
- Age Range: 6-9 years
- Genre: Picture Book
- Themes: Inclusion, Friendship, Empathy
Read more: Kid's Empathy Quiz | Video Included
3. “A Sick Day for Amos McGee” by Philip C. Stead
Teach your child the value of caring for others with “A Sick Day for Amos McGee.” This delightful story follows zookeeper Amos McGee as he takes care of his animal friends. When Amos falls ill, his friends return the favor, showcasing the importance of empathy and compassion in action.
- Age Range: 2-6 years
- Genre: Picture Book
- Themes: Compassion, Friendship, Empathy
Read more: 9 Read Aloud Books for Kids
4. “Stand in My Shoes: Kids Learning About Empathy” by Bob Sornson
Empower your child to understand the feelings of others with “Stand in My Shoes.” This engaging book follows Emily as she learns about empathy from her big sister. Through relatable scenarios, kids with thinking and learning differences will discover how to recognize and respond to the emotions of others.
- Age Range: 4-8 years
- Genre: Picture Book
- Themes: Empathy, Emotional Intelligence, Sibling Relationships
Read more: 5 Social Skills for ADHD in Kids
5. “Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Peña
Take your child on a journey of empathy and gratitude with “Last Stop on Market Street.” This award-winning book follows CJ and his grandmother as they ride the bus through their diverse city, encountering various people and situations. Through their interactions, CJ learns to appreciate the beauty in the world and the importance of empathy.
- Age Range: 3-5 years
- Genre: Picture Book
- Themes: Empathy, Gratitude, Diversity
Goally | Kid’s Tablet for Building Emotional Regulation Skills
Is your child struggling with understanding and managing their emotions? Goally teaches emotional regulation skills in a fun and interactive way!
The Mood Tuner app encourages kids to look inwards and identify their feelings, helping them understand what’s going on inside. Once they’ve recognized their emotions, they can choose from a variety of exercises designed to help them self-regulate and find their balance.
Empathy: A Gift That Keeps on Giving
And there you have it – five fantastic books about empathy for kids that will not only entertain but also educate and inspire. By introducing your neurodivergent child to these stories, you’re helping them develop essential emotional intelligence skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. So, go ahead and explore these literary gems with your child, and watch as they grow into empathetic, compassionate individuals who make the world a better place.
This post was originally published on 04/20/2023. It was updated on 10/05/2023.
Goally
We help parents teach their kids life skills, like doing bedtime and morning independently. Backed by science, we incorporate evidence-based practices and expert-informed designs in all of our apps and content.
