Another post in the Teaching Children Values series. This one is all about Courage. Kids have to have courage in so many aspects of their lives and books are a great way to talk about these.

The Smallest Girl In The Smallest Grade
Written By:
Illustrated By:

For so many reasons kids might need to have courage at the beginning of a new year of school, but this little lady has courage when many might shy away or ignore a situation.

Little Sally McCabe is the smallest girl in the smallest grade. Hardly anyone notices this sweet little girl, but Sally notices everything, because she pays super extra special attention. She notices the kite stuck in the tree, all the keys on the janitors key ring, and when one little boy trips another in the hall. She sees when someone pushes someone else or when someone whispers mean words and one day Sally has had enough! She takes a chance and stands up to all those bullies, and finds that one small girl can make a big difference.

After The Fall
By: Dan Santat

We all know the classic tale of Humpty Dumpty, but what we don’t know is what he did after the fall. Humpty was scared to climb back up. But he missed the birds and he missed being with them, but he would never climb again because accidents happen. One day, he got an idea to make a paper airplane to reach the heights he couldn’t. But when that airplane soared higher and further than Humpty had anticipated he had a BIG DECISION to make.

So, great for teaching (ALL OF US) the lesson of overcoming fears and getting back up and trying again when all seems too hard/scary.

Scaredy Squirrel
By: Melanie Watts

This book is a great example of all the GREAT things we might be missing out on because of fear.

Scaredy Squirrel is a “Nervous Nelly”. He stays in his nut tree and avoids ALL the tarantulas, green Martians, and killer bees. He has is routine and VERY strictly adheres to it. He also has an emergency plan WITH an emergency kit, in case anything is to go awry. But each day he just sits in his nut tree and waits. One day all havoc breaks loose and scared squirrel finds himself leaping into the scary world of germs, sharks, and killer bees. However, something amazing happens as he is flying through the air.

What Do You Do With A Chance
Written By: Kobi Yamada
Illustrated By: Mae Besom

When a chance comes around it can be a little scary to take it. If you miss it or it doesn’t turn out the way you thought it would, you can be embarrassed and sad. And that is exactly what happens to the child in this story. After that he vows he will never take a chance again. But with time realizes he missed out by turning down so many chances. So, the next time a chance comes around…..he takes it!

He discovers that when you have courage, take chances, and say yes to new experiences, amazing things can happen.

Brave As Can Be
Written By: Jo Witek
Illustrated By: Christine Roussey

“When I was little I was afraid of EVERYTHING! I had a pile of fears as big as a mountain.” The little girl in this story used to be afraid if everything. But has found ways to empower herself and overcome her fears. The dark was frightening, but a nightlight and glowing jammies took care of that problem. The thunder was scary, but now she sings songs to give herself courage.

This is a book that allows children to see there are easy ways to soothe their fears.

Brave Irene
By: William Steig

Mrs. Bobbin has finished the dress for the duchess to wear for the ball that evening. However, she isn’t feeling well and doesn’t know how she will find the energy to get the dress over the mountain in the blizzard to the ball. Irene, bravely volunteers to make the delivery for her mother. The storm is fierce and Irene has to battle the wind the whole way. Irene is determined to make it to the ball and deliver the package, even when she has moments of self-doubt.

A great story to talking to kids about having courage even when all odds are against them and it feels too hard to continue.

Super Manny Stands Up
Written By: Kelly DiPucchio
Illustrated By: Stephanie Graegin

At home Manny dons his super cape and is constantly saving the world from evil—evil cloud monsters, zombie bears, and robot aliens. However, when he encounters a real life foe in the school cafeteria, will he have the strength to stand up for what is right? Will he save the day and be a super hero for his classmate?

A book for showing kids to take courage and stand up for themselves and those around them.

The Berenstain Bear’s and The Gift of Courage
By: Jan and Mike Berenstain

Brother and Sister Bear wonder if they can be as brave as David when he fought Goliath. They find out when they face Too-Tall Grizzly and his gang. In The Berenstain Bears and the Gift of Courage, the cubs learn where real courage comes from.

A little wordy for younger toddlers, and may have to be read in more than one sitting. A great scripture story of courage, brought to life.

 

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