Children’S Mental Health Books: A Curated List

Looking for the best books on children’s mental health? Whether you’re a parent, educator, or mental health professional, understanding and supporting children’s mental well-being is crucial. The 20 books on children’s mental health listed in this article cover a range of topics, from anxiety and depression to ADHD and autism. These insightful resources provide guidance, strategies, and personal stories to help you navigate the complexities of children’s mental health. Whether you’re seeking practical advice or a deeper understanding of the issues, these books offer valuable insights and tools to support the mental well-being of the young ones in your life.

20 Best Children’S Mental Health Books

The Out-of-Sync Child

by Carol Kranowitz

The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz is a groundbreaking book on children’s mental health that explores the world of sensory processing disorder. Kranowitz provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by children who struggle with sensory integration issues, offering practical advice for parents, educators, and therapists. Through real-life stories and a compassionate approach, the author helps readers understand how the sensory system affects a child’s behavior, emotions, and relationships.

This children’s mental health book offers a comprehensive overview of sensory processing disorder, including symptoms and diagnosis, and provides a wealth of sensory-motor activities and strategies to help children thrive. With its accessible writing style and wealth of practical information, The Out-of-Sync Child is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to better understand and support children with sensory processing challenges. It is a must-read for parents, educators, and professionals working in the field of children’s mental health.

The Explosive Child

by Ross W. Greene

The Explosive Child by Ross W. Greene is a groundbreaking book on children’s mental health that offers a new perspective on understanding and helping challenging kids. Dr. Greene, a renowned clinical psychologist, introduces a revolutionary approach to dealing with explosive behavior in children, focusing on solving the underlying problems rather than simply trying to manage the symptoms. Through engaging case studies and practical advice, the book provides valuable insights into the behavior of children with behavioral challenges and offers effective strategies for parents, educators, and mental health professionals to support these children.

With its compassionate and empowering approach, The Explosive Child is a must-read for anyone who cares for or works with children with behavioral difficulties. This enlightening children’s mental health book provides a fresh and hopeful outlook on managing explosive behavior and fostering better communication and understanding between adults and children. Dr. Greene’s empathetic and solution-focused approach makes this book an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to support children with challenging behaviors.

The Highly Sensitive Child

by Elaine N. Aron

The Highly Sensitive Child by Elaine N. Aron is a groundbreaking book on children’s mental health that explores the unique traits of highly sensitive children. Dr. Aron, a pioneer in the field of child psychology, provides valuable insights into the world of highly sensitive children, who are often misunderstood and overlooked. Drawing on her extensive research and clinical experience, she offers practical strategies for parents and caregivers to support and nurture these children’s mental health, helping them thrive in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

This book about children’s mental health sheds light on the challenges and strengths of highly sensitive children, offering a fresh perspective on their behavior and emotions. Dr. Aron’s compassionate and knowledgeable approach empowers parents to better understand and respond to their highly sensitive child’s needs, fostering a deeper connection and a more harmonious family dynamic. The Highly Sensitive Child is a must-read for anyone looking to support and advocate for the well-being of sensitive children.

The Bipolar Bear Family

by Angela Holloway

The Bipolar Bear Family by Angela Holloway is a heartwarming children’s book that delves into the complex topic of mental health. The story follows the adventures of a bear family as they navigate the challenges of living with bipolar disorder. Through colorful illustrations and relatable characters, the book provides a gentle and informative introduction to the topic of mental health for young readers.

This book on children’s mental health aims to foster understanding, empathy, and open conversations about mental health in families and classrooms. It offers a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and mental health professionals to start important discussions about emotions, differences, and acceptance with children. The Bipolar Bear Family is a sensitive and empowering children’s mental health book that encourages compassion and support for those dealing with mental health challenges.

The ADHD Workbook for Kids

by Lawrence E. Shapiro

The ADHD Workbook for Kids by Lawrence E. Shapiro is a fantastic resource for parents and caregivers looking to support children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This interactive and engaging workbook is designed to help children better understand and manage their ADHD symptoms. With fun activities and exercises, kids can learn practical skills for staying focused, managing impulsivity, and dealing with overwhelming emotions. The book provides useful information on ADHD in a language that children can easily comprehend, making it a valuable tool for promoting self-awareness and self-regulation. Through its colorful illustrations and relatable examples, this book on children’s mental health empowers kids to become active participants in their own treatment and fosters a sense of confidence and capability. The ADHD Workbook for Kids is a must-have for any family dealing with ADHD and is a wonderful addition to any children’s mental health library.

The Whole Spectrum of Social, Motor, and Sensory Games

by Barbara Sher

The Whole Spectrum of Social, Motor, and Sensory Games by Barbara Sher is a comprehensive and engaging book about children’s mental health. Sher, a pediatric occupational therapist, offers a wide range of activities and games designed to help children develop social, motor, and sensory skills. The book is a valuable resource for parents, educators, and therapists looking to support children’s mental health in a fun and interactive way.

With a focus on promoting healthy development and emotional well-being, the book provides a variety of games and exercises that can be easily incorporated into daily routines. Sher’s approach is practical and accessible, making it easy for readers to implement the activities with children of all ages and abilities. The Whole Spectrum of Social, Motor, and Sensory Games is a must-have for anyone interested in promoting children’s mental health through play and movement.

The Survival Guide for Kids with ADHD

by John F. Taylor

The Survival Guide for Kids with ADHD by John F. Taylor is a valuable resource for children struggling with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. This insightful book offers practical strategies and tips for managing the challenges of ADHD, helping young readers navigate through their daily lives with confidence and success.

Taylor provides easy-to-understand explanations about ADHD and its impact on children, as well as helpful tools for improving focus, organization, and self-control. The book also addresses the emotional aspects of ADHD, offering guidance on managing frustration, building self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships.

With a compassionate and understanding approach, The Survival Guide for Kids with ADHD empowers children to take control of their condition and thrive in all areas of their lives. Through engaging activities and real-life examples, this book is a must-have for parents, educators, and anyone looking for a comprehensive resource on children’s mental health.

The Anxiety Survival Guide for Teens

by Jennifer Shannon

The Anxiety Survival Guide for Teens by Jennifer Shannon is a valuable resource for young people struggling with anxiety. This comprehensive book on children’s mental health offers practical strategies and techniques to help teens manage their anxiety and regain control of their lives. Shannon, a clinical psychologist, provides clear and accessible information on anxiety and its effects, as well as step-by-step guidance on how to overcome anxious thoughts and behaviors. With real-life examples and interactive exercises, this book about children’s mental health empowers teens to confront their fears and build resilience. It also addresses common triggers of anxiety in adolescents, such as school, social situations, and family dynamics, offering specific tips for navigating these challenges. The Anxiety Survival Guide for Teens is an essential tool for any young person dealing with anxiety, providing them with the support and skills they need to thrive.

The Bipolar Teen

by David J. Miklowitz

The Bipolar Teen by David J. Miklowitz is a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, and mental health professionals seeking to understand and support adolescents with bipolar disorder. This insightful book provides practical guidance on how to recognize the symptoms of bipolar disorder in teenagers, and offers effective strategies for managing the condition and reducing the risk of relapse. Miklowitz draws on his extensive experience as a researcher and clinician to provide evidence-based information on medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments that can help adolescents with bipolar disorder lead fulfilling lives.

Readers will find the book’s compassionate approach and real-life case examples to be highly relatable and reassuring. The Bipolar Teen is an essential read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of how bipolar disorder manifests in adolescents, and how to best support their mental well-being. This insightful and comprehensive guide is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of children’s mental health.

The ADHD Effect on Marriage

by Melissa Orlov

The ADHD Effect on Marriage by Melissa Orlov is a groundbreaking book that delves into the impact of ADHD on relationships. With a focus on understanding and managing the challenges that arise when one or both partners have ADHD, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice for couples. Orlov draws from her extensive experience as a marriage consultant and expert in the field of ADHD to provide a comprehensive guide for navigating the complexities of ADHD within a marriage.

Readers will find this book to be an invaluable resource for gaining a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play when ADHD is present in a relationship. Orlov offers strategies for improving communication, managing symptoms, and fostering a stronger, more fulfilling connection with a partner who has ADHD. Whether you are dealing with ADHD in your own relationship or seeking to support someone who is, The ADHD Effect on Marriage is an essential read for anyone looking to understand the impact of ADHD on their relationship.

The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide

by David J. Miklowitz

The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide by David J. Miklowitz is a comprehensive and compassionate resource for individuals and families dealing with bipolar disorder. This insightful book provides practical strategies for managing the symptoms of bipolar disorder, as well as guidance on navigating the challenges of everyday life. With a focus on both medication and psychotherapy, the author offers a holistic approach to treatment that empowers individuals to take control of their mental health.

Readers will find valuable information on understanding the nature of bipolar disorder, identifying early warning signs, and building a strong support network. The book also addresses the impact of bipolar disorder on relationships, work, and parenting, making it a valuable resource for anyone affected by this condition. With its clear, accessible language and evidence-based advice, The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide is an indispensable tool for anyone seeking to better understand and manage bipolar disorder.

The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook for Teens

by Jennifer Shannon

The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook for Teens by Jennifer Shannon is a valuable resource for adolescents struggling with anxiety and phobias. This interactive workbook is designed to help teens understand their anxiety, recognize their triggers, and develop effective coping strategies. With its easy-to-follow exercises and practical tips, this book on children’s mental health empowers teens to take control of their anxiety and build resilience.

Readers will find useful information on various anxiety disorders and phobias, as well as practical tools to manage their symptoms. The author, a licensed clinical social worker, offers a compassionate and relatable approach to addressing the unique challenges that teenagers face when dealing with anxiety. The book about children’s mental health also provides guidance on how to communicate with parents, teachers, and peers about their struggles, creating a supportive network for their journey to recovery.

Overall, The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook for Teens is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of children’s mental health and help adolescents overcome their anxiety and phobias.

The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind

by Daniel J. Siegel, Tina Payne Bryson

The Whole-Brain Child is a groundbreaking book on children’s mental health that offers 12 innovative strategies to help parents nurture their child’s developing mind. Written by renowned experts in the field, Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson, this book provides practical and accessible advice for raising emotionally intelligent and resilient children.

Using cutting-edge research and real-life examples, the authors explore how the brain develops and offer insights into how parents can support their child’s emotional and cognitive growth. They emphasize the importance of integrating both the left and right hemispheres of the brain to help children thrive in a complex and ever-changing world.

With practical tips and exercises, The Whole-Brain Child empowers parents to understand and respond to their child’s emotions and behavior in a way that fosters healthy development. This engaging and informative book is a must-read for anyone interested in promoting their children’s mental well-being and building strong parent-child relationships.

Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them

by Ross W. Greene

Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them by Ross W. Greene is a thought-provoking book on children’s mental health that addresses the challenges faced by students with behavioral issues. Greene argues that traditional disciplinary measures often fail to address the underlying problems causing disruptive behavior in children.

The book offers a fresh perspective on children’s mental health, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between educators, parents, and mental health professionals to understand and support children with behavioral challenges. Greene provides practical strategies and tools for identifying and addressing the root causes of challenging behavior, ultimately creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for these students.

Lost at School is a must-read for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of how to effectively support children with behavioral challenges. It offers valuable insights and actionable steps for creating a more empathetic and effective approach to children’s mental health in educational settings.

Raising a Secure Child: How Circle of Security Parenting Can Help You Nurture Your Child’s Attachment, Emotional Resilience, and Freedom to Explore

by Kent Hoffman, Glen Cooper, Bert Powell

Raising a Secure Child: How Circle of Security Parenting Can Help You Nurture Your Child’s Attachment, Emotional Resilience, and Freedom to Explore is a comprehensive book about children’s mental health that offers valuable insights and practical advice for parents. Written by Kent Hoffman, Glen Cooper, and Bert Powell, this book delves into the important topic of nurturing a child’s emotional well-being and fostering secure attachments.

The authors draw on their extensive experience in child development and attachment theory to provide a roadmap for parents to help their children develop mental health and emotional resilience. Through the Circle of Security model, they offer guidance on how to support children’s exploration and independence while also providing a secure base for them to return to.

With its accessible language and real-life examples, Raising a Secure Child is a valuable resource for parents who want to better understand and support their child’s emotional development. This book on children’s mental health is a must-read for anyone looking to create a nurturing and secure environment for their children.

The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Disorder

by Carol Kranowitz, Lucy Jane Miller

The Out-of-Sync Child is a comprehensive and insightful book about children’s mental health, specifically focusing on Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Written by Carol Kranowitz and Lucy Jane Miller, this book provides a deep understanding of how SPD affects children’s daily lives and offers practical strategies for parents and educators to help cope with the challenges it presents.

Through real-life examples and expert advice, the authors guide readers in recognizing the signs of SPD and understanding how it impacts a child’s behavior, emotions, and learning abilities. The book explores sensory integration issues and how they can manifest in different ways, such as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory stimuli.

With its accessible language and empathetic approach, The Out-of-Sync Child is a valuable resource for anyone looking to support a child with SPD. It offers hope, understanding, and actionable steps for creating a supportive environment that enables children to thrive despite their sensory processing differences.

The Explosive Child: A New Approach for Understanding and Parenting Easily Frustrated, Chronically Inflexible Children

by Ross W. Greene

The Explosive Child: A New Approach for Understanding and Parenting Easily Frustrated, Chronically Inflexible Children by Ross W. Greene is a groundbreaking book on children’s mental health that offers a fresh perspective on handling challenging behavior in kids. Dr. Greene, a renowned child psychologist, introduces the concept of Collaborative Problem Solving, a method that focuses on addressing the underlying causes of a child’s explosive behavior rather than simply applying discipline.

Through real-life case studies and practical advice, the book provides parents with valuable insights into the minds of easily frustrated and inflexible children, offering a roadmap for fostering better communication and cooperation. Dr. Greene’s empathetic and non-confrontational approach empowers parents to build stronger relationships with their children and create a more harmonious and understanding home environment.

The Explosive Child is a must-read for parents, educators, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of children’s mental health and learning effective strategies for supporting children with challenging behavior.

No-Drama Discipline: The Whole-Brain Way to Calm the Chaos and Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind

by Daniel J. Siegel, Tina Payne Bryson

No-Drama Discipline: The Whole-Brain Way to Calm the Chaos and Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind is a groundbreaking book on children’s mental health by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson. This insightful and practical guide offers a revolutionary approach to discipline that focuses on nurturing your child’s developing mind. By understanding the science behind a child’s behavior and brain development, parents can learn to respond to their children’s emotions and behaviors in a way that promotes healthy mental and emotional growth.

The authors emphasize the importance of connecting with your child and using discipline as an opportunity to teach and guide, rather than to punish. They provide valuable strategies for managing tantrums, addressing challenging behaviors, and building a strong and secure parent-child relationship. No-Drama Discipline is a must-read for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding and supporting children’s mental health. With its practical tips and insightful research, this book about children’s mental health offers a fresh perspective on discipline and nurturing a child’s developing mind.

Childhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology, and How You Can Heal

by Donna Jackson Nakazawa

Childhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology, and How You Can Heal by Donna Jackson Nakazawa is a groundbreaking book on children’s mental health that explores the profound impact of childhood adversity on physical and mental well-being. Nakazawa draws on cutting-edge research to reveal how early trauma can shape our biology, leading to increased risk of chronic illness, depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges in adulthood.

With compelling personal stories and scientific evidence, Nakazawa offers hope and healing by providing practical strategies for resilience and recovery. She empowers readers to understand the connection between their past experiences and their current health, and provides guidance on how to break free from the cycle of trauma and adversity.

This thought-provoking and informative book about children’s mental health sheds light on the long-term effects of childhood trauma, offering a path to healing and transformation. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex interplay between biology and biography, and how to overcome the impact of early adversity on mental health.

The Highly Sensitive Child: Helping Our Children Thrive When the World Overwhelms Them

by Elaine N. Aron

The Highly Sensitive Child: Helping Our Children Thrive When the World Overwhelms Them by Elaine N. Aron is a groundbreaking book on children’s mental health that explores the unique challenges faced by highly sensitive children. Dr. Aron, a renowned psychologist and expert on the trait of high sensitivity, provides valuable insights and practical advice for parents and caregivers of sensitive children. Drawing on her research and clinical experience, she offers guidance on how to support and nurture sensitive children in a world that can often feel overwhelming to them.

This insightful book about children’s mental health addresses the needs of highly sensitive children, who may be more prone to anxiety, overstimulation, and emotional sensitivity. Dr. Aron empowers parents with strategies to help their sensitive child thrive, including tips for managing sensory overload, building resilience, and fostering a supportive environment at home and in school. The Highly Sensitive Child is an essential resource for anyone caring for a highly sensitive child, offering a compassionate and practical approach to understanding and nurturing children’s mental health.

Final Thoughts on Best Children’S Mental Health Books

In conclusion, these 20 best books about Children’S Mental Health offer valuable insights and resources for parents, educators, and mental health professionals. Covering a wide range of topics such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma, these books provide helpful guidance and support for understanding and addressing children’s mental health challenges. Whether you’re looking for practical strategies, personal stories, or expert advice, these books have something to offer for anyone interested in promoting the well-being of children. Dive into these recommended reads and gain a deeper understanding of how to support children’s mental health.

Which book about Children'S Mental Health is best?

The best book on Children’S Mental Health can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz,
  2. The Explosive Child by Ross W. Greene,
  3. The Highly Sensitive Child by Elaine N. Aron.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Children'S Mental Health?

For those looking to learn about Children’S Mental Health, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz,
  2. The Explosive Child by Ross W. Greene,
  3. The Highly Sensitive Child by Elaine N. Aron,
  4. The Bipolar Bear Family by Angela Holloway,
  5. The ADHD Workbook for Kids by Lawrence E. Shapiro,
  6. The Whole Spectrum of Social, Motor, and Sensory Games by Barbara Sher,
  7. The Survival Guide for Kids with ADHD by John F. Taylor,
  8. The Anxiety Survival Guide for Teens by Jennifer Shannon,
  9. The Bipolar Teen by David J. Miklowitz,
  10. The ADHD Effect on Marriage by Melissa Orlov

These books offer a range of perspectives on Children’S Mental Health, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Children'S Mental Health?

The best books about Children’S Mental Health are:

  • The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz,
  • The Explosive Child by Ross W. Greene,
  • The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide by David J. Miklowitz,
  • The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook for Teens by Jennifer Shannon,
  • The Anxiety Survival Guide for Teens by Jennifer Shannon,
  • The Whole Spectrum of Social, Motor, and Sensory Games by Barbara Sher.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Children’S Mental Health are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Children'S Mental Health books of all time?

Choosing the best Children’S Mental Health books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz,
  • The Explosive Child by Ross W. Greene,
  • The ADHD Workbook for Kids by Lawrence E. Shapiro,
  • The Anxiety Survival Guide for Teens by Jennifer Shannon,
  • and The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide by David J. Miklowitz.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Children’S Mental Health and continues to be influential today.