1
Empathy Model
Shows kids what supportive listening looks like without forcing a fix.
Why It's On Our Shelf
This one hits me every time because it’s such a sweet reminder that kids don’t always want solutions. The story is quiet, but it teaches a big lesson about just being present. I love reading it in both languages because it gives us gentle “comfort phrases” we can reuse later. It’s a book I reach for when someone in the house has had a rough day.
Why It Works
2
Comfort Phrases
Creates language kids can borrow when someone else is upset.
3
Emotional Safety
Reinforces that feelings are okay, and connection comes first.
Feelings & Friendship
The Feelings Book / El libro de los sentimientos
Todd Parr
A visual, kid-friendly way to begin identifying emotions.
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Feelings & Friendship
Have You Filled a Bucket Today? / ¿Has llenado una cubeta hoy?
Carol McCloud
A kindness-first framework with language that helps kids talk about helping, sharing, and empathy.
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Feelings & Friendship
Hands Are Not for Hitting / Las manos no son para pegar
Martine Agassi
Clear, practical language for big moments when kids need words for self-control and repair.
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