Children's Books that Teach Self-Regulation

I LOVE really good children's books!  In fact, I might just have a little bit of an obsession!

I am one happy girl when I find a book that can help me teach self-regulation skills to children!  One of my favorites is Shubert is a S.T.A.R.

In this adorable story, Shubert comes to school in a very grumpy mood.  He hurts his friend and does several other things that are unsafe.  His brilliant teacher, Mrs. Bookbinder (a beautiful butterfly), floats across the room to help. 

With the guidance of Mrs. Bookbinder, Shubert learns some new skills.  His classmates help him turn "bug crazy mad" into "caterpillar calm".

This book is very helpful when teaching your children the four calming strategies that Dr. Becky Bailey has shared with us.  They are:  S.T.A.R., Drain, Balloon, and Pretzel.  You can get some free printables for your classroom or home on the Conscious Discipline website.  Just follow this link. 

Once we have finished reading the story I have children share what makes them "bug crazy mad".  We use this photo of Shubert to help us get started.

Children fill in the blank and then illustrate it.  "I feel bug crazy mad when _________________." 

There are many extension activities you could do with this book!  You could have children think about what they can do to help them feel caterpillar calm.  Some examples would be listening to music, taking a bath, writing in a journal, or exercising.  Some of these are strategies that work well for the "I choose" step in the Five Steps for Self-Regulation.

Look at this simple little caterpillar craft you could make.  Imagine taking one deep breath for each hump in the little critter's back!

 

You could also help children make this cute little caterpillar and bug snack!  You can find more information on Little Page Turners.

Shubert has a sister named Sophie!  Recently, Dr. Bailey released a board book titled:  Sophie is a STAR.  The skills in this book are similar to the Shubert book.  The language is much simpler as it is geared for infants, toddlers, and children with special needs.

What are some of your favorite children's books?  Could you use them to help teach children life skills?  Come back on Thursday!  I'll be sharing another one of my favorites! 

Until then, I wish you well!!!




photo credit: sean dreilinger via photopin cc