Children are a treasure trove of creativity and imagination, but often, that brilliance is locked in the box because they are SHY! Shyness comes in various forms: being unable to speak, feeling anxious in social situations, fearful of change, not being able to stand up for themselves, or not being able to create bonds.
But what if you could help your child break out of their shells and find their courage? The books will help you do just that! These books are filled with brilliant illustrations and even better life lessons to help wallflowers shine!
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
1. Shy Willow by Cat Min
Age Group:
4-7 Years
Summary:
This beautifully illustrated book explores the story of Willow, a shy rabbit who hides in her mailbox away from the anxiety-inducing world around her. But when a boy accidentally drops a letter into her mailbox, will she find the courage to venture outside to fulfil the boy’s wishes?
How It Helps:
This story promotes empathy, encourages overcoming anxiety, and highlights the importance of building connections.
2. Where Is Bina Bear? by Mike Curato
Age Group:
4-8 Years
Summary:
It is a fun but poignant book about Bina Bear, who is invited to a party by her friend Tina Rabbit. But Bina has social anxiety and does everything she can to blend into the background! This interactive book challenges you to locate Bina on every page while imparting valuable lessons, too.
How It Helps:
It teaches practical lessons about friendship, acceptance, and understanding.
3. Shy by Deborah Freedman
Age Group:
3-5 Years
Summary:
The story is of Shy, a boy who loves birds but has only seen them in books. When a real bird comes around, he is too shy to venture out despite his desire to meet her. Will Shy come out of hiding and be brave?
How It Helps:
The narrative gently suggests that love can inspire bravery.
4. Too Shy for Show and Tell by Beth Bracken
Age Group:
4-6 Years
Summary:
Sam wants his classmates to get to know him but hates show-and-tell. This book tells how Sam faces his fears and completes his first show-and-tell at school!
How It Helps:
It encourages shy kids to find ways to face groups and overcome their fears.
5. Little Miss Shy by Roger Hargreaves
Age Group:
3-7 Years
Summary:
This book is part of Hargreaves’ celebrated Mr Men series. It introduces us to Little Miss Shy, who is invited by Mr Funny to attend his party but does everything she can to escape it! This picture book uses humour to teach sympathy and ways to overcome social anxiety.
How It Helps:
The humorous approach helps shy children feel seen and accepted.
6. Mary Wrightly, So Politely by Shirin Yim Bridges
Age Group:
4-7 Years
Summary:
Polite little Mary is a well-behaved girl who always uses her “please,” “sorry,” and “thank you.” But when a woman gets in the way of the beloved toy she wants to get for her brother, she must find a way to stand up for herself while still being polite!
How It Helps:
This story encourages timid kids to assert themselves when necessary.
7. Willow’s Whispers by Lana Button
Age Group:
5-6 Years
Summary:
Willow is a girl with big wishes but a tiny voice. Her words come out in whispers that are often misheard by others. But with encouragement from her father and her wishes growing bigger, Willow discovers the voice that was hidden within her all along!
How It Helps:
It illustrates that children can find the courage to be bold within a supportive environment.
8. A Way with Wild Things by Larissa Theule
Age Group:
3-6 Years
Summary:
Poppy loves all things nature and has no problem interacting with all the tiny creatures around her. But when it comes to people, she camouflages in the background and out of sight. But at a party, when a unique bug lands on a cake, Poppy comes out of hiding and is noticed by one and all!
How It Helps:
This story shows shy children that their passions can help them connect with others.
9. Shybug by Kevin Ann Planchet
Age Group:
6-8 Years
Summary:
Emmie has an imaginative mind but chooses to live out those adventures alone because she is too shy to make a new friend. But when Annie moves into the neighbourhood, looking to make friends, will Emmie break away from her shyness and reach out?
How It Helps:
The narrative motivates shy kids to open up and enjoy sharing their lives with friends.
These books entertain and offer crucial lessons on empathy, bravery, and self-expression for shy children. By reading these stories together, parents can foster an environment where their kids feel understood and encouraged to step outside their comfort zones. With the right support and inspiration from literature, even the shyest child can learn to shine brightly in their unique way!
