50 social-emotional learning books for back to school

When kids hop on the bus to head back to school, you know they’ll be greeted with math homework, reading tests, spelling words, book reports, and science experiments. But in addition to academics, teachers are also helping students foster self-control, empathy, and decision-making, also known as social-emotional learning (SEL). Learning to manage emotions and cope with problems doesn’t just come naturally. It’s a skill that takes practice, but the payoff is a mindset that can help students succeed in school, career, and life.

Through the safety of a book, kids can explore and explain some of life’s most difficult emotions. Young readers will be introduced to the basic concepts through colorful illustrations and simple words. For older readers, books can help support conversations about navigating tough experiences.

To start the new school year on the right foot, be sure to spend some time working on emotional development in addition to reading, writing, and arithmetic. Here’s a highlight of SEL ebooks on the Libby app that are available to borrow from your public library.

☁️ Does your student have access to Sora, the student reading app? If so, they may also be able to check them out from their school collection.

Books about dealing with emotions

• The White Book: What to Do When You're Stressed by John Wood
• Being Mindful by Katie Peters
• Don't Sweat It: How to Navigate Big Emotions by Sloan Hughes
• I Get Creative to Cope by Caitie McAneney

Books about getting along with others

• Leading Others by Katie Peters
• I Messed Up: How to Own Your Mistakes by Sloan Hughes
• My Friend Won't Talk to Me: Working It Out by Connie Colwell Miller
• Talking About Social Media by Louise Spilsbury

Books about feeling different

• My Life with a Food Allergy by Mari Schuh
• My Life with ADHD by Mari Schuh
• My Life with Dyslexia by Mari Schuh
• Shyness by Tamra B. Orr

Books about resilience

• Paco Tries by Megan Borgert-Spaniol
• Setting Goals by Katie Peters
• You Can Persevere: Quit or Keep Going? by Connie Colwell Miller

Browse the rest of the collection: