One of the “after effects” of the recent Covid-19 pandemic is the exacerbation of mental health challenges faced by children. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s Policy Lab’s article Addressing System Needs for Child Behavioral Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic states that “…early evidence on the pandemic’s impact on youth combined with the children’s mental health crisis that existed before COVID-19 means that youth and their families will need access to quality, affordable and timely behavioral health services now more than ever.”
To help address this concern, Multicultural Children’s Book Day created its 2023 Classroom Kit, Mental Health Support for Stressful Times, to provide some needed mental health resources for kids. We have created a list of additional bilingual resources to complement this kit to aid in post-pandemic social and emotional learning. This collection of books uses the power of stories to help children learn about acceptance and mindfulness. It empowers them by providing awareness and the necessary skills to build confidence, self-esteem, and personal character. These books come with accompanying lesson plans or activities.
Squirrel Monkey
Set in the rainforest of Latin America, Squirrel Monkey is a thoughtful tale about acceptance and the power of mindfulness. Cori, the playful squirrel monkey, is sometimes overwhelmed by his “big feelings,” especially when the jungle’s noisy bustle is too much for the little monkey. While the other animals struggle to soothe Cori’s distress, his mother demonstrates the power of slow, meditative breathing to balance emotions and help Cori find a place of “calm and quiet” in the busy jungle.
Augustus and his Smile
Augustus, the tiger, is sad because he has lost his smile. Where could it be? Poor Augustus goes on a journey to find his lost smile and discovers so much about the natural world: shiny insects, birds, mountains, fish, and even a rainstorm. Stunning illustrations celebrate the beauty of the world and the simple happiness it brings us.
Keeping Up With Cheetah
Cheetah wants a friend – a friend as fast as him. But poor Hippo can’t keep up and is left in the dust. This charming story is about the value of friendship and what it means to be a good friend.
Sports Day in the Jungle
Poor Sloth is too slow to compete in the jungle games! He can only watch as the other animals practice for their special sports. Monkey teases Sloth as he swings from branch to branch. But wait! When disaster strikes, will Sloth get a chance to use his secret skill and save the day? This colorful tale helps children to appreciate that meaningful happiness comes from comfort with oneself.
Happy After All
What if you had to leave behind everything you love: family, friends, and home? This story is about a young girl and her father facing this daunting challenge as they travel away from their village. In another country, the girl must adapt to an unfamiliar climate, culture, neighborhood, and school – while feeling the sad pangs of homesickness. But, through her father’s encouragement, and her willingness to embrace new experiences, the girl gradually discovers that she can be Happy After All.
About Language Lizard
Language Lizard, LLC (www.LanguageLizard.com) is a leading supplier of bilingual products in over 50 languages. The company provides award-winning bilingual books and audio resources to schools, libraries, literacy organizations, and bilingual families. Language Lizard offers culturally responsive teaching materials, multilingual posters, and free multicultural lesson plans to support diverse classrooms and homeschooling families.
Language Lizard Idiom Books are available as English and bilingual paperbacks at www.LanguageLizard.com, Ingram, and bookstores worldwide. eBooks are available on major eBook platforms and on Overdrive and are 32 Full Illustrated Color Pages for Grade Level K-5.
