Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or at home, problem-solving helps kids thrive. These ten children’s books promote everyday problem-solving and resiliency, whether the issue be a missing toy or a struggling friendship.
1. STUCK
By Oliver Jeffers
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A funny tale about a number of large objects, including a ship and a house, that get stuck in a tree
2. WHAT DO YOU DO WITH AN IDEA?
By Kobi Yamada
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A sentimental narrative about the magic of having one’s own original idea, and nurturing it like a friend
3. OLIVER BUTTON IS A SISSY
By Tomie dePaola
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Oliver Button defies gender norms with his love of tap dancing, and struggles with teasing. He practices and follows his passions to become a star
4. THE FRUIT SALAD FRIEND
By Maria Dismondy
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This colorful book explores the components of a great friend that may help solve friendship problems
5. A BAD CASE OF THE STRIPES
By David Shannon
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Sometimes when we face a problem, it just seems to get worse and worse! When Camilla finds herself striped and able to change pattern on demand, only being her true self will prove to cure her
6. KNUFFLE BUNNY
By Mo Willems
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Misplacing an important object can be distressing, but searching with the help of family or friends can solve the issue! When a stuffed animal called Knuffle Bunny goes missing, a family zooms back to the laundromat to find it
7. JAMAICA’S FIND
By Juanita Havill
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Jamaica finds a stuffed animal at the park and turns it into the lost and found, helping its owner to find it
8. JABARI JUMPS
By Gaia Cornwall
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Changing one’s mindset can be an important tool for problem-solving. When Jabari struggles with his fear of jumping off the diving board, taking a deep breath and assuring himself that he’s ready helps him to view it as a surprise
9. THE BROWNSTONE
By Paula Scher
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This flavorful book about animals living in close proximity explores how to problem-solve and get along with neighbors
10. ONE WORD FROM SOPHIA
By Jim Averbeck
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This book about a birthday wish for a giraffe demonstrates varied techniques of negotiation, and which is most effective.
These ten favorites can help instill a problem-solving mindset in children. Sign up for the Cardinal Rule Press email list to discover more character-building titles and receive free Book Bingo template.
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