Spring Mindsets for Kids

In a season of growth, help kids explore feelings, confidence, and finding calm through these reads recommended by librarians.

Updated March 30, 2026
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Spring sings for the grouchy ladybug
Carle, Eric
Paper Book
Perfect for fans of the New York Times bestseller Hugs and Kisses for The Grouchy Ladybug and 1, 2, 3 with the 10 Little Rubber Ducks! From the World of Eric Carle comes a brand-new book starring The Grouchy Ladybug, a favorite character for over 40 years. ...
Roar like a lion : how animals can help you be your best self
Sorosiak, Carlie
Paper Book
From the UK bestselling author of I, Cosmo comes an inspirational guide to living your best life -- with a wild twist. Every animal is wonderful at being themselves, and if we're observant, we can let them teach us how to be our kindest, bravest, best selves as well. Humans are a...
Gritty kitty
Hutton, John
Paper Book
"Gritty Kitty, stumble and fall, stand back up--no problem at all!" Young readers will see themselves in Gritty Kitty when Gritty takes a tumble on the playground, struggles to wait patiently for a turn with a favorite toy, and experiences other everyday hurdles. But through grit and resilience...
Big sister, long coat
Buchet, Nelly
Paper Book
"Love and tenderness are expressed in every scene" -School Library Journal, STARRED REVIEW "...this sweet and optimistic picture book shows how the support of a loved one can help reframe attitudes, come rain or shine." -Booklist, STARRED REVIEW Big...
Woo hoo! You're doing great!
Boynton, Sandra
Paper Book
A New York Times bestseller! Beloved author Sandra Boynton--and a very exuberant chicken!--have an important message to share in this inspiring and highly giftable all-ages picture book for every life milestone.   Whether you are learning to skate, baking...
Where happiness begins
Eland, Eva
Paper Book
This follow-up to When Sadness Is at Your Door suggests that happiness can always be found by looking within. This helpful picture book is a great introduction to mindfulness and emotional literacy. A spare text and simple illustrations encourage readers to find happiness...
The squish
Carzoo, Breanna
Paper Book
Meet Sandcastle. Sandcastle's world was new and exciting until their very first... SQUISH! In an effort to protect themselves from ever getting squished again, Sandcastle tries to be bigger and taller and stronger! But is that enough to stop all the squishes ...
Do your best every day to do your best every day
Cena, John
Paper Book
Bestselling author and entertainer John Cena motivates and inspires readers with this illustrated book of uplifting encouragements adapted from his popular Twitter feed. The perfect gift for graduations, birthdays, and life's biggest celebrations! Hope + Effort = Making the...
How to draw a happy cat
Berlin, Ethan T.
Paper Book
A "How to Draw" lesson spins hilariously out of control when Cat just won't stay happy! This relatable madcap read-aloud is immense fun, and perfect for fans of Dragons Love Tacos. Drawing a happy cat seems like such an easy thing to do. Just follow the instructions in...
Baby Shark feels happy : a book about emotions
Paper Book
From the underwater world of Baby Shark comes this adorable board book about managing emotions, complete with a shiny mirror on the last page! Designed to spark curiosity, this sturdy, colorful board book will encourage little ones everywhere to explore their emotions. With sweet...
The creature of Habit
Smith, Jennifer E.
Paper Book
A delightful picture book about a creature of habit whose routine suddenly gets disrupted by the unexpected arrival of a new friend. A perfect story for little readers learning social emotional skills that explores the joy of trying something new! A very big creature with big...
Facing uncertainty
Golkar, Golriz
Paper Book
In this book, readers will learn about uncertainty and the emotions that come along with it, ways they can cope with it, and how to help others who are experiencing it. Social and emotional learning (SEL) concepts support growth mindset throughout, while Grow with Goals and Try This! activities...

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