SEL Literacy Resources
Literacy is a powerful tool to support the Social and Emotional Learning of young people, of all ages. Find below range of resources that can support you in your journey to implementing SEL skills in your context.
Building Emotional Literacy
The below books can support in developing the emotional literacy for students in a developmentally appropriate way - with some building the concept self regulation also.
“In My Heart: A Book of Feelings” by Jo Witek
A beautifully illustrated book that explores different emotions through descriptive language and relatable experiences.
“When I’m Feeling” Series by Trace Moroney
A series of books focusing on individual emotions (happy, sad, angry, scared) with simple, engaging text for young children.
“The Color Monster” by Anna Llenas
A fun book that uses colours to represent different emotions, helping children name and understand their feelings.
“Feelings” by Libby Walden
A poetic journey through emotions with stunning illustrations, encouraging discussion about feelings.
“Tough Guys Have Feelings Too” by Keith Negley
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A book that explores sadness and how
Managing Emotions
The below books can support in helping young people manage their emotions.
“Breathing Makes It Better” by Christopher Willard & Wendy O’Leary
Introduces mindfulness techniques like deep breathing to help children manage big emotions.
“The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst
Exploring strategies such as “an invisible string” to help manage emotions such as sadness, loneliness and love.
”Hey Warrior” by Karen Young
A book about Anxiety to help kids understand and manage anxious feelings.
“Be With Me” by Loren Arezio
The story of discovering that sharing our emotions with others can support us in resolving problems.
“Listening To My Body” by Gabi Garcia
A detailed book that works through the connection between emotions and physical sensations.
“Ups and Downs” by Karen Young
‘Ups and Downs’ draws on Polyvagal Theory to support young people to understand why they feel and do as they do, and how to do differently when they need to
Understanding the Brain
Developing an understanding of the brain can support the development of self awareness and self management. The below books are great resources for this purpose.
“Your Fantastic Elastic Brain” by Dr JoAnn Deak
Introduces mindfulness techniques like deep breathing to help children manage big emotions.
“Dear You, Love from Your Brain” by Karen Young
This book will help children discover more about the brain - how it works, what it needs, and how to love it big so it loves them bigger.
“Listening To My Body” by Gabi Garcia
A detailed book that works through the connection between emotions and physical sensations.