4 Helpful Books to Teach Your Kids to Listen to Their Bodies ✨
The other day, my back didn’t feel quite right. I knew I should’ve rested… but I didn’t want to cancel on my tennis group at the last minute. So I pushed through—and now I’m paying for it. 😩
As I sit here with this not-so-fun back pain, I can’t help but wonder about the mixed messages I might be sending my daughters. I’m always telling them to listen to their bodies—to take breaks from screens, to rest when they feel tired, and to speak up when something doesn’t feel right. But clearly, I’m still learning that lesson myself. (Maybe this is my middle child syndrome kicking in—lol.)
Sometimes we put others’ needs first, even when our own bodies are quietly asking us to slow down. I know I’m not the only one who does this. But here’s the good news: with awareness comes the opportunity to do better. And that’s what I’m aiming for—not perfection, but growth.🌱
If you’re also working on this, here are some fantastic picture books and activities to help kids (and grown-ups!) practice listening to their bodies and feelings:
Picture Books & Activities to Support Self-Awareness:
🦋 Listening with My Heart by Gabi Garcia: A sweet story about self-compassion and paying attention to your emotions.
🦋 My Body Sends a Signal by Natalia Maguire: A helpful tool for teaching kids to notice physical and emotional cues.
🦋 Penelope’s Big Dream by Monica Vidalon: A girl hides her dream to avoid judgment but soon realizes that ignoring what lights her up leaves her feeling empty. A gentle reminder to follow your heart.
🦋 Dream Big Activity Book by DeColores Katy: A playful activity book with simple pages that invite kids to identify emotions, explore their dreams, and check in with how they’re feeling—perfect for practicing self-awareness.
