11 amazing reads that will help your kids understand mental health

It's a great idea to start the conversation about mental health now, with your kids - but that can be tricky! Well, author Vikki VanSickle says it's as easy as opening a book - and today, she shared eleven picks of amazing books for kids of all ages to learn and start talking about mental health. From picture books to non-fiction, all of these reads are an amazing way to introduce the topic to your kids in an easy, accessible way. 

Find Vikki's picks below, and be sure to watch the video above for more!

PICTURE BOOKS (AGES 3-7)

WHY ARE YOU SO QUIET?

It’s hard to be introverted in an extroverted world. This beautiful book celebrates all things quiet and encourages children to listen; to the world and their inner selves.

Annick Press | $22

RAJ'S RULE (FOR THE BATHROOM AT SCHOOL)

A gentle story that addresses a common source of anxiety for kids: using a public bathroom.

Owl Kids | $20

FOLLOW YOUR BREATH

This wonderful novel is a kid-friendly introduction to mindfulness techniques.

Amazon | $17

PUPPY IN MY HEAD

In this book, anxiety is personified as a puppy living in the narrator’s head. It includes mindfulness tips and techniques.

Indigo | $22

THE PINK UMBRELLA

A beautiful, sophisticated picture book that explores living with depression and the importance of community.

Amazon | $23

AGES 6-9

MEGABAT IS A FRAIDYBAT

This third book in the popular, kid-friendly chapter book series tackles nerves and anxiety.

Pre-order at Indigo | $11

WHAT KIDS DID: STORIES OF KINDNESS AND INVENTION IN THE TIME OF COVID-19

This is an uplifting collection for kids and families who are looking for examples of hope in a challenging time.

Second Story Press | $19

AGES 9-12

Sara and the search for normal

A companion to the award-winning and Canadian favourite 'OCDaniel' that focuses on Sara and her struggles to be “normal” amid various diagnoses. 

Amazon | $23

Warp Speed

Described as a relatable book for people who feel like outsiders, Lisa Yee writes a chapter book that will appeal to reluctant readers.

Amazon | $7

TEENS

HEADS UP

A powerful collection of real-life stories of the people who are changing how we perceive mental health.

Amazon | $25

EVERYTHING BEAUTIFUL IS NOT RUINED

This award-winning YA novel examines what it’s like to live with a parent suffering from mental illness.

Indigo | $14

When it comes to mental health, every action counts! Join the conversation on Bell Let’s Talk Day, January 26, and help create positive change for those living with mental health issues. For every text message, mobile or long-distance call made by Bell, Bell Aliant and Bell MTS customers, Bell will donate five cents to Canadian mental health initiatives. The same goes for every tweet or TikTok video with the hashtag #BellLetsTalk, watching the Bell Let’s Talk Day video on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest , TikTok or Snapchat, or using the Bell Let’s Talk Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. But that’s just the first step: Visit letstalk.bell.ca for more ways you can effect change and build awareness around mental health.

BEFORE YOU GO: Genius dad finds hilarious solution to crying baby

[video_embed id='2122980']Genius dad finds hilarious solution to crying baby[/video_embed]