Happy reading! 

All Kinds of Families

Written by Suzanne Lang 

Illustrated by Max Lang

Ages Baby to 3 years

All kinds of families exist in this world, and this book touches on some of the many different combinations of families out there. The book highlights all the many types of family members there could be with a fun and humourous tone kids will love.

Favorite Line: Uncle Hal, Al, Sal and Uncle Lou, too!

Made for Me

Written by Zach Bush

Illustrated by Gregorio De Lauretis

Ages Baby to 3 years

This sweet and tender book focuses on a father’s love for his child. We see Dad take on fatherhood, loving and raising his baby with joy, wonder and determination. And his baby is enjoying every moment.

Favorite line: Of all the children that ever could be, you are the one made just for me.

Who takes care of you?

Written by Hannah Eliot

Illustrated by Jade Orlando

Ages 2-5

Raising a child does take a village. This book spotlights a diverse group of children sharing a bit about the people caring for them. 

Favorite Line: We walk hand in hand. We dance to our own tune.

A Mother for Choco

By Keiko Kasza

Ages 2-5

Choco wants to find a family more than anything. This book shows us that the family you need sometimes is not the one you expected. It is a great book to discuss how family is about love, no matter how different you and your family members are, adopted or not.

Favorite Line: But I don’t have big, round cheeks like you.

How to Babysit a Grandma and Grandpa Board Book Boxed Set (How To Series)

Written by Jean Reagan

Illustrated by Lee Wildish

Ages 2-5

Being a kid and having to babysit the grandmas and grandpas is tough! This funny book series is a step-by-step guide for kids who want to be prepared when it’s their turn to babysit the grownups.

Favorite Line: You may want to have some extra tricks – grandpas always clap for more.

Bonus: How to raise mom and a surprise dad

Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story 

Written by Kevin Maillard 

Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal

Ages 2-6

A native bread becomes the centerpiece of a story about coming together, honoring heritage, respecting culture and all the things that native peoples uphold. It is a very insightful and powerful book with wonderful illustrations and a great bonus section that dives deeper into Indigenous traditions.

Favorite Line: Drop the dough in the skillet, the bubbles sizzle and pop.

Bathe the Cat

Written by Alice B. McGinty

Illustrated by David Roberts

Ages 3-6

The family cat is determined not to get a bath and will use some handy scrambling skills to get his way. But his efforts confuse everyone as they hurry to prepare for Grandma’s visit.

Favorite Line: Sarah feeds the floor. I’ll sweep the dishes.

No Dogs Allowed

Written by Sonia Manzano

Illustrated by Jon J Muth

Ages 3-8

A trip to the state park becomes an entire feat for Iris and her family. When they discover no dogs are allowed, they all come together to ensure El Exigente, their beloved pooch, isn’t left out of the fun. 

Favorite Line: I was packing for El Exigente when my sister yelled, rolling her eyes, MOMMMM! Iris can’t bring that dog, can she? There’ll be nothing but trouble if he comes!”

Home for A While

Written by Lauren H. Kerstein

Illustrated by Natalia Moore

Ages 4-8

Calvin struggles to manage his emotions as he enters yet another new foster home. His new foster parent, Maggie, assists him in finding ways to cope with anger, sadness, frustration, and feelings of being unwanted.

Favorite Line: Calvin’s tummy settled like a quiet winter snow.

Mango, Abuela and Me

Written by Meg Medina

Illustrated by Angela Dominguez

Ages Baby to 3 years

When Mia’s grandmother leaves her tropical home to live with her family in the city, love helps them overcome their language barrier.

Favorite Line: Snuggled in my pajamas, I smell flowers in her hair, sugar and cinnamon baked into her skin.

Lunar Boy

Written and illustrated by Jen and Cin Wibowo

Indu is an adopted boy from the moon who goes to live with his blended family on New Earth. When he faces challenges in his new home, he asks the moon to bring him back. This graphic novel is a coming-of-age story that tackles acceptance, identity, love and family bonds.

Ages 10 and up

Favorite Line: When I chose to raise you I promised to love every part of you even the parts you haven’t figured out yet

Sisters

Written by Raina Telgemeier

The bond between sisters can be incredible—unless it isn’t! In this graphic novel, the author reflects on her childhood and shares her experiences with the complexities of family and sisterhood.

Ages 8 to 11

Favorite Line: The cousin I wished was my sister barely knows me at all and the sister I actually have hates me.

All Around Us

Written by Xelena González

Illustrated by Adriana M. Garcia

Ages 3-5 

Grandpa guides his granddaughter through the cycle of nature and the world around them. This mindful story will inspire conversations about how we connect with the world and each other. It is a lovely collaboration between the author and illustrator.

Winner of the Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor and American Indian Youth Literature Award Picture Book Honor

Favorite line: What we take from the earth, we return

Searching for Sancocho / En busca del sancocho

Written by Jamileth Brito, Mario Serrano

Illustrated by Yurieli Otero-Asmar

Ages 3-5 

Aurora’s Abuela has passed away. When people bring food to help the family deal with their loss, Aurora can only think about the Dominican sancocho (a hearty stew native to Caribbean and Latin American cuisines) her Abuela would make. With the help of a magical bike, Aurora explores the origins of the delicious recipe and searches for the secret ingredient that will keep Abuela’s sancocho alive. Searching for Sancocho / En busca del sancocho is a sweet story about love, loss, grief and keeping cultural connections alive. 

Favorite line: Abuela, what is the secret ingredient? Hija, the secret ingredient is love.

The Ofrenda That We Built

Written by Jolene Gutiérrez & Shaian Gutiérrez

Illustrated by Gabby Zapata

Ages 3-5 

Traditions are moments and acts that bind us together and keep culture and connection alive. This vibrant book centers itself around the tradition of the Day of the Dead, a multi-day holiday celebrated in Mexico and by people of Mexican heritage around the world. It shows us how an ofrenda, a home altar celebrating our ancestors, is built. It is written in a House that Jack Built-style rhyme.

Favorite line: There are the candles, glowing and bright, that welcome our ancestors in from the night.

Nacho and Lolita

Written by  Pam Muñoz Ryan

Illustrated by Claudia Rueda

Ages 4-8

This book by celebrated author Pam Muñoz Ryan is a beautifully written love story. Nacho, the only bird of his kind left, finds friendship, companionship and love with Lolita. The emotional journey of this beautiful bird and his soulmate will surely tug at your heartstrings. Get ready to pull out the tissue!

Favorite line: When Spring poked its head into February, the vines held buds that promised returning blossoms. All that from one feather.

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré

Written by Anika Aldamuy Denise 

Illustrated by Paola Escobar

Ages 4-8

Pura Belpré, the first Puerto Rican librarian in the New York Public Library system, made her mark on our culture by championing education. This book is a valuable resource that introduces children to the important work of the librarians who keep us informed and expose us to new ideas and opportunities. 

Favorite line: Now, a new island stretches before her–ripe for planting seeds of the cuentos she carries.

Digging for Words: José Alberto Gutiérrez and the Library He Built

Written by Angela Burkel Kunkel

Illustrated by Paola Escobar

Ages 4-8

One person’s garbage is another’s treasure. Learn how a Colombian garbage collector in Bogota created a “paradise” for the people of his community, one book at a time.

Favorite line: A few pages to read, a few hours to dream and then it is a new day.

Turning Pages: My Life Story

By Sonia Sotomayor 

Illustrated by Lulu Delacre

Ages: 4-8

Read about the life of Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina United States Supreme Court Justice. It focuses on key moments in her life and how books and storytelling were so important to her and ultimately influenced her career as a lawyer and judge.

Available in English and Spanish

Favorite line: I didn’t know how to read yet, but written words, I discovered, were electrical currents that jolted feelings to life.

Fearless Trailblazers: 11 Latinos who made U.S. History

​​By Naibe Reynoso

Illustrated by Jone Leal

Ages 5-8

This book is part of the Con Todos Press Little Biographies for Bright Minds™ series written by Reynoso and illustrated by Jone Leal. By presenting the biographical stories of outstanding Latinx leaders and heroes in rhyming verse, young readers will easily follow their journey to success in both English and Spanish. Plus, there’s a wonderful surprise at the end.

Check out the other companion books:

• Be Bold! Be Brave! / ¡Sé audaz, sé valiente! 11 Latinas who made U.S. History
• Courageous History Makers: 11 Women from Latin America Who Changed the World

Esperanza Rising

Written by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Ages 9-12

This one may sound familiar! It is about a young Mexican girl named Esperanza. After facing tragedy on her family’s ranch in Mexico, she is forced to flee to California with her mother during the Great Depression. The novel is loosely based on the experiences of the author’s grandmother.

The critically acclaimed book is often used in schools to teach about Mexican-American history and coming-of-age stories. Revisit it or discover it for the first time with your child.

Favorite line: Our land is alive, Esperanza. You can only hear the earth’s heartbeat when you are still and quiet.

Invisible

By Christina Gonzalez

Illustrated by Gabriela Epstein

Ages 10-12

Five students are forced to do community service. They think they have nothing in common except that everyone sees them as the same…Spanish-speaking kids. Will they risk the “convenience” of “being middle school invisible” to help someone in need?

Inspiration from the classic 1980s movie The Breakfast Club and great illustrations set in a bilingual graphic novel format make this a good one to read with your child.

Favorite line: What could I possibly have in common with any of them?

Read more from The Ovia Bookshelf!

The Ovia Bookshelf: Back-to-School Edition

Black History Month

Celebrate AAPI

Disability Pride

Reading resources

Pre-reading skills in the third year

All about your child’s reading and writing journey

Learning to talk in a multilingual household

All about your child’s reading and writing journey

Check out what’s on our shelf!

Lola Goes to School

By Ana McQuinn

Illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw

Ages 2-4

The Lola Reads book series is a wonderful collection for preschoolers. In this book, Lola encounters various milestones, including starting school. The book helps reinforce new routines for first-time students. In this book, Lola prepares for her first day at school, from packing her bag to meeting new friends.

Favorite line: Lola puts everything in her chair. She is ready for the morning.

Anno’s Counting Book

By Mitsumasa Anno

Ages 2-5

You will find no words here, just a simple and sweet landscape that unfolds into a vibrant community as you turn the pages of this book. This is a great way to introduce the concept of mathematics to little ones.

This is My Home, This is My School  

By Jonathan Bean 

Ages 3-6

Not everyone learns in a traditional school. Some kids receive their education at home. Based on the author Jonathan Bean’s homeschooling experience, this book is a beautiful visual homage to his experience.

Favorite line: Watch out, here comes the crabby cafeteria lady!

The Smart Cookie 

By Jory John, Illustrated by Pete Oswald

Ages 4-7

Cookie struggles with school and can’t seem to find her place. When Ms. Biscotti gives the class a special assignment, Cookie struggles with finding her originality. This book is part of the Food Group books, a fun, lesson-filled series that introduces kids to cool characters like Sour Grape, Big Cheese, and more. The whole family will love these insightful stories.

Favorite line: I imagined my desk was a raft and that I was completely lost at sea. Because that’s what it felt like.

The Name Jar

By Yangsook Choi

Ages 5-8

Unchei is a recent immigrant from Korea. When her new classmates at school struggle to pronounce her name, she tells everyone she hasn’t chosen her name yet. To help, her classmates add names to a jar. Unhei then starts her journey toward loving her name and celebrating herself. It is a great read that inspires us to embrace new experiences, find friendship, and respect and honor cultures.

Favorite line: As she ran her fingers along the grooves and ridges of the Korean characters, she pictured her grandmother’s smile.

Planet Middle School

by Nikki Grimes

Ages 8-12

Written in free verse poems, Planet Middle School gives snapshots into the world of change that can happen during middle school. It is a good book to help start conversations about dealing with middle school and the things your child may be encountering for the first time, like puberty.

Planet Middle School

by Rob Harrell

Ages 9-12

Inspired by the author’s real-life experience, Wink takes us into Ross Malloy’s world, filled with many challenges, including a cancer diagnosis.

This sweet, poignant novel gives us a lot to think about and sometimes cry about, and most importantly, it teaches us about survival, strength and hope.

The author adds art and comic details, making this book even better!

Read more!

The Ovia Bookshelf: Black History Month Edition

The Ovia Bookshelf: AAPI

The Ovia Bookshelf: Celebrating Disability Pride

Big changes in the coming year

Transitioning from elementary to middle school 

See what’s on the shelf!

A Friend for Henry

Written by Jenn Bailey

Illustrated by Mika Song

Ages 2-7

Henry has autism and is looking for a friend. This heartwarming story explores the experience of autism and the power of friendship. Making friends is an experience we can all relate to!

Favorite line: She burps pebbles, Henry thought. And breathes underwater. And turns sunshine into colors.

I Am a Masterpiece!

Written by Mia Armstrong, illustrated by Alexandra Thompson

Ages 3-5

Actor, model, artist and activist with Down syndrome, Mia Armstrong, lets us into her beautiful world with this sweet and empowering book about loving and celebrating yourself. 

Favorite line: It’s a different kind of self-portrait. It’s how I feel, not how I look.

A Day With No Words 

Written by Tiffany Hammond, illustrated by Kate Cosgrove

Ages 4+

Author Tiffany Hammond’s celebration of neurodiversity and the beauty of finding different ways to communicate and understand each other is a must-read. Inspired by her autistic son, the story follows a boy who doesn’t speak but finds other ways to connect with the world.

Favorite line: Daddy’s voice is like air, soft as a light summer breeze that kisses my cheek, strong as the winds of hurricanes that abandon ships at sea.

What Happened to You?

Written by James Catchpole, illustrated by Karen George

Ages 3-6 

This award-winning book uses simple language and illustrations to show how a boy named Joe deals with kids who ask him what happened to his leg. The book focuses on addressing how a disabled child might want to be spoken to and provides valuable insights into the honest and curious way kids who don’t understand may approach another child with a visible disability.

Favorite line: Sharks were easy compared to kids Joe hadn’t met yet.

My Brother Charlie

Written by Holly Robinson Peete, Ryan Elizabeth Peete

Pictures by Shane Evans

Ages 4-8

Charlie is adored and valued by his family, especially his twin sister Callie, who shares what makes her brother so awesome in this book. It’s a heartfelt love letter from a sister to her brother, shining a light on acceptance, kindness, and the strength of sibling relationships. The story is a tribute to the relationship between Holly Robinson Peete’s real-life twins, RJ, who has autism, and his twin sister, Ryan Elizabeth.

Favorite line: He always makes my hurts better with the caring that comes from his eyes.

Fighting for YES!: The Story of Disability Rights Activist Judith Heumann

Written by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger 

Afterword by Judith Heumann

Ages 6-9

Judith Heumann defied the limits society put on her and challenged the barriers that limited the disabled community. Her pursuits changed the law and made it possible for many people to have a more accessible life, better educational opportunities, and more. It’s a great, inspiring read!

Favorite line:  No more NOs!

We Move Together

by Kelly Fritsch and Anne McGuire

Illustrated by Eduardo Trejos 

Ages: 6 – 9 years

We all move, but not in the same way. This lovely book shows how communities have people with different abilities and ways to move about in life.

Bright and fluid illustrations help bring the story to life.

Favorite line: We build something better

I Deaf-initely Can, Rhett the Heeler

Written by Karlie Waldrip, Illustrated by Lucy Rogers

Ages 2-18

Rhett needs a forever home, but he is a deaf dog and many folks don’t understand or know how to care for him. So when Karlie, who happens to be deaf, comes along, it starts a great friendship and new life for Rhett and Karlie. Based on a true story, this book’s author, illustrator, and main character are part of the deaf community!

Favorite line: Together, we saw the world differently, but we didn’t let our deafness stop us.

Triple the reading fun!

Award-winning author and artist R.J. Palacio brought millions together with her New York Times bestselling books centered around August Pullman, a boy with an extraordinary face and the willingness to brave the world. Here are three books from the Wonder universe for all ages.

Wonder

Ages 9-11+

August starts 5th grade hoping to be treated like any other kid. The first book, told from multiple points of view, shows how people struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance.

Auggie and Me

Ages 9-11+

See Auggie through the eyes of Julian, the bully, Christopher, Auggie’s oldest friend, and Charlotte, Auggie’s new friend at school. 

We’re All Wonders 

Ages 3-8 

Palacio introduces Auggie’s story to younger readers.

Favorite line: I know I can’t change the way I look. But maybe, just maybe…people can change the way they see.

Read more from The Ovia Bookshelf!

Black History Month
Celebrate AAPI

Reading resources

Benefits of reading to your baby

All about your child’s reading and writing journey

Each new book we introduce our children to opens up new possibilities for learning and growth. Here’s a great list of children’s books by AAPI / API authors and illustrators who celebrate and represent culture as they teach us about community and life along the way.

Check out what’s on our shelf!

I am a Bold Asian Boy / I am an Amazing Asian Girl 

By Yobe Qiu and illustrated by Jade Le

Ages Baby to 8 years old

Yobe Qiu has created a pair of books that reinforce confidence and positive affirmation for Asian children. Filled with Jade Le’s colorful illustrations, the books approach the topics of self-worth, courage, strength and cultural identity. Tip: Have an older sibling read this to their younger sibling, and you can have them both not only enjoy positive content but also spend time together.

Favorite lines: 

I wake up ready for my day despite the changes it might bring.

I am not afraid to shine, I am my ancestors’ pride.

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners

Written by Joanna Ho and Illustrated by Dung Ho

Ages 2-6

Joanna Ho and Dung Ho present an incredibly heartwarming book about the beauty of self-identity, family, and culture. It is a great read-aloud moment for the whole family.

Favorite line: Her eyes are filled with so many stories; I can fall inside of them and swim until time stops.

I am a Rainbow! 

Written by Mark Kanemura and Illustrated by Richard Merritt 

Preschool to 3 years old

Putting on a show, dressing up, and dancing brings Mark joy at home, but they sometimes get him teased by kids at school. The gift of a unique cape makes him feel invincible! When it goes missing, will he lose his confidence forever?

Professional dancer and LGBTQIA+ advocate Mark Kanemura explores confidence and bravery in this dynamically illustrated book, based on his childhood in Hawaii.

Favorite line: Every time we get together, it feels like a party that I never want to end.

Luli and the Language of Tea

Written by Andrea Wang and illustrated by Hyewong Yum

Ages 3-7 years old

In this book, Luli has the idea of hosting a tea party for her new English as a Second Language class. Together, she and her classmates learn how to build community through tea. The book also includes a section on the history of tea worldwide, complete with maps and facts to engage you and your child.

Favorite line: Hands curled around warm cups, mouths curved into shy smiles

Moon Pops

By Heena Baek, translated by Jieun Kiaer

Ages 4-6 years old

What do you do when the moon starts to melt? Hint: You make an icy treat. Inspired by a Korean folk tale, Heena Baek’s imaginative tale will be asked for repeatedly at bedtime.

Favorite line: Drip, drip, drip…the moon was melting

Piper Chen Sings

By Phillipa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran

Illustrated by Qin Leng

Ages 4-8 years old

Piper Chen sings! She sings anywhere and anytime she can. But can she sing the solo in the upcoming Spring Sing if she suddenly has a case of the butterflies? Luckily, her grandmother has some wise advice to share. Grammy winner and Tony-nominated actress Phillipa Soo teamed up with therapist and mom Maris Pasquele Doran to create this lovely book about embracing your emotions.

Favorite line: She sings good morning to the peaking sun and goodnight to the cresting moon.

The Light Within You

Written by Namita Moolani Mehra and illustrated by Kamala Nai

Ages 4-8 years old

Diya is so excited about traveling 7,850 miles to India to see Nani, her grandmother and best friend. They will celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Join her on her wonderful trip back to her other home. Kamal Nai’s illustrations beautifully illuminate this lovely story about love, culture and family created by Namita Moolani Mehra. 

Favorite line: You know, when things are tough on the outside, it helps to brighten your light on the inside!

https://www.namitamehra.com/the-light-within-you

Punky Aloha

By Shar Tuiasoa

Ages  4-8 years old

Illustrator Shar Tuiasoa brings us her first book, Punky Aloha, about a cool and sweet kid with a story to share. When grandma needs butter for her famous banana bread, it’s up to shy Punky to venture out to market on her own. With her grandma’s magic glasses, she learns to share her aloha and meets some new friends, while finding her courage along the way.

Favorite line: Be helpful. Be giving. Be brave. This is how we share our aloha.

Much Ado About Baseball

By Rajani LaRocca

Ages 8-12 years old

Shakespeare and baseball together in a book? Sign us up! This Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection is an entertaining and thoughtful book inspired by the Shakespeare classic Much Ado About Nothing. Readers will enjoy Trish and the many characters that Rajani LaRocca has brought to life.

When You Trap a Tiger

By Tae Keller

Ages 9-11 years old

When visiting her sick grandmother, Lily encounters a magical tiger. The tiger offers Lily a deal. If she returns what her grandmother stole from the tigers long ago, the tiger will help her grandmother feel better. This Newbery Medal-winning and New York Times bestselling book is inspired by Korean folklore and uses fantasy to touch on the themes of family, heritage, love and consequence.

Favorite line: I love the way we turn the lights, Low, cuddle up at night, tell stories of Korea, your voice painting pictures of ghosts and tigers in my mind.

Read More!

The Ovia Bookshelf: Black History Month Edition

​​Reading to and with your child is a delightful way to connect with and help them develop reading skills. Books also introduce your child to new worlds, different ideas and many life lessons. We present this new feature by spotlighting Black and Brown children’s book authors and illustrators who have crafted fantastic stories for your family to explore.

Check out what’s on our shelf!

The Old Truck

by Jarrett Pumphrey and Jerome Pumphrey

Ages up to 4 

The Old Truck is a sweet story of how a truck works hard to help a family farm. Created by two brothers, this award-winning tale is about determination, imagination and family. 

Favorite Line: The old truck dreamed…

We’re Going to Find the Monster!

by Malorie Blackman and Dapo Adeola

Ages Baby to 5

This picture book takes you and your “little explorer” on a mission to find “the monster”. Malorie Blackman and the 2022 British Book Awards Illustrator of the Year, Dapo Adeola, weave together a vibrantly visual quest for both parent and child.

Favorite Line: And she sang a soft, sweet song to soothe it, then she gave it a massive hug and sent it on its way.

Please, Baby, Please

by Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee and illustrated by Kadir Nelson

Academy Award-winning filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, producer Tonya Lewis Lee, partnered with celebrated illustrator Kadir Nelson to give you a peek into the many scenarios you and your baby will encounter as they start becoming independent. You may find yourself saying the title multiple times a day already. First published over 20 years ago, this now classic story is one that your little one will appreciate! 

Favorite line: Go back to bed, baby, please, baby, please. 

The Year We Learned to Fly

by Jaqueline Woodson and illustrated by Rafael López

Ages 3-8 

In this companion book to their New York Times bestseller, The Day You Begin (see below), Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López bring to life a story of two siblings discovering the power of imagination and perseverance. It is an excellent lesson in working together, finding common ground and overcoming challenges.

I Am Every Good Thing

Written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Gordon C. James

Ages 3-8 

This beautifully illustrated picture book is an empowering and poetic declaration of a little boy’s self-love and awareness. You won’t resist reading this one out read out loud!

Favorite line: I’m the perfect beat and the perfect rhyme, keeping everything on point and always on time. 

The Day You Begin

by Jaqueline Woodson and illustrated by Rafael López

Ages 5-8

A New York Times bestseller, The Day You Begin, is a love letter to courage and resilience. When a little girl walks into a room where no one else is like her, a visual story unfolds that will have you and your kids grabbing this book again and again.

Favorite line: There will be times when you walk into a room, and no one there is quite like you.

This book is also available in Spanish as El Día En Que Descubres Quién Eres! 

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History

by Vashti Harrison

Ages 4-9

A New York Times and USA Today bestseller, this book is the first in the educational and inspirational Little Leaders series by Vashti Harrison. It features trailblazing Black women in American history with illustrations and bios that relay the power of each woman’s courage, determination, and impact on future generations. Read about iconic history makers such as Sojourner Truth and Maya Angelou to STEM heroes like mathematician Katherine Johnson and chemist Alice Ball.

A real gem for all families to read! 

Tip: Read a profile daily with your child during Women’s History Month. Ask them which of the women they are most inspired by and why.

Creating Calm in 5,4,3,2,1

Written by Dr. Melissa Munro Boyd and illustrated by Vanessa Alexandre

Ages 4-10

Clinical psychologist Dr. Melissa Munro Boyd has developed the Kids Healthy Coping Skills series focused on helping kids cope with their mental wellbeing. This book emphasizes relaxation and grounding techniques kids and parents can use when things get overwhelming.

Favorite line: Sometimes we take mini vacations and travel somewhere relaxing in our minds.

Swim Team: A Graphic Novel

by Johnnie Christmas

Ages 8-11

Graphic novels are excellent storytelling formats to incorporate into your child’s reading list. Award-winning author and cartoonist Johnnie Christmas introduces you to Enith Brigitha Middle School’s Mighty Manatees, a band of underdogs led by the novel’s main character, Bree. Despite her fear of swimming, Bree pushes through with the help of Etta, an elderly occupant in her building who happens to be a former swim captain. Will the Manatees turn their school’s losing record around by besting rivals Holyoke Prep? You’ll have to dive into this visual tale about courage and friendship to find out!

Favorite line: We affect other people in ways we can’t guess. Like a puzzle, I don’t know the solution to yet? Exactly!

Just Right Jillian

by Nicole D. Collier

Ages 8-12

Nicole D. Collier introduces us to Jillian, a fifth grader struggling to speak out and express herself. When a bully targets her, she becomes determined to overcome her shyness and find her courage. It is an all too familiar experience for many kids and parents! The great, heartwarming story helps introduce the subjects of bullying, overcoming social challenges and finding self-expression.

Favorite Line: I fell asleep wondering how to unhide. More than anything else, Grammy wanted me to be myself. To stop worrying about what everyone thought. “You’re just right, Jillian. Be more confident in that.”

The Good Turn

By Sharna Jackson

Ages 9-12

Josie and her friends are the Copseys, a scout troop out to earn their camping badge. In their quest, they stumble upon a mystery that the thrill-seeking sleuths must investigate. British author Sharna Jackson, the author of the bestselling book High-Rise Mystery, brings your tweens an adventure focused on friendship, community and injustice.

Favorite Line: Do you know what I dislike most in the whole world? The wasting of time. Mine specifically.

King and the Dragonflies

by Karen Callender

Ages 8-12

After his brother’s unexpected passing, Kingston “King” James struggles with his grief and creates a world where his brother lives as a dragonfly. When his former best friend goes missing, he embarks on a journey that reignites friendship and helps him face the realities of life. This National Book Award winner explores themes like loss, sexuality, identity, race, and abuse in a way that is relatable to middle-grade readers. Parents would benefit from reading and talking about the book with their children.

Favorite Line: Those trees always seem to be watching. Like they’ve got a secret to tell me, if only I’d stop for a second and wait and listen.

Read more about reading!  

Benefits of reading to your baby

Best books to read to baby

Fun and games: reading half books

All about your child’s reading and writing

Yes, you should be talking with your kids about sex

First things first, let the official record show that you should be talking to your kids about sex. When your kids learn about sex from you, you get to control the narrative. You can talk about what qualifies as sex, staying safe, and the potential risks as well as the rewards. 

Choosing not to talk with your kids about sex — or pushing off the conversation just a little bit longer — will not keep your kid from learning about sex on TV and TikTok, from their schoolmates and siblings, and online. 

Plus there are tons of related conversations that are worth having as early as feels appropriate to you. We know that on average, kids see porn for the first time at age 12. While your child may not fall into this group, it’s probably a good idea to have conversations with them about how porn fits into the picture. 

The trouble with “The Talk”

The use of the word ‘The’ suggests that this is a one-and-done conversation, but talking to them about sex just once won’t cut it.

Sure, one conversation may seem like an easier undertaking for you, the parents. But actually, it puts way more pressure on you to say all the right things! Plus, covering all the things your kiddo needs to learn would take hours. Bluntly, nobody wants to be monologuing about lovemaking for that long! 

A one-time conversation also robs your child of the opportunity to sleep on the new information, and come back with questions or clarifications on the bits they’re confused about. 

The replacement: Ongoing sex conversation 

Consider talking about sex at various intervals. Even better, try creating a culture in your family where the lines of communication are open and honest about all topics. 

In practice, that might look like:

• Explaining music lyrics your kiddo doesn’t understand, even when they’re sexual
• Naming the sex acts on screen TV shows and movies you’re watching as a family
• Opening up about your own experiences with puberty, kissing, and relationships
• Purchasing age-appropriate sex-education pamphlets and books

Remember, these sex talks aren’t just about sex. They are — or should also be — be about body parts, reproduction, consent, masturbation, pregnancy and pregnancy protection, sexually transmitted diseases, gender and sexuality, and more. 

When to start the conversation

There is no one-size-fits-all rule for when you should start having these conversations or what those topics should include. Where you live, what TV shows and social media platforms your kid has access to, and the ages of the other kids your child is spending time with, will all influence the likelihood that they hear about sex from someone other than you. 

Ahead, some general guidelines of what topics to cover and when. 

Ages 0 to 5

This is the time your child is learning the names of their different body parts. Rather than giving their genitals cutesy nicknames like “pee-pee”, “down there”, or “gi-gi”, use biologically accurate words. It’s also okay to introduce the topic of privacy, and when it’s okay for trusted adults to help with private parts (diaper changes, washing, at the hospital). 

Teaching toddlers the proper names for their genitals and other reproductive organs can stop shame around those body parts from developing. Without the weight of shame, this gives them more comfort to ask the questions they might have about those parts, how they feel, and how to know if something is wrong. It also gives them the language to name if someone(s) touches them without their consent. 

Ages 3 to 5

This is the age that many kids like to run around naked — for instance after bath time – and it’s a good opportunity to address appropriate places to be naked (home) versus less appropriate places (public). 

This is also a good time to start to introduce the idea of consent. That means encouraging your children to say no to things like physical contact. For instance, if your child does not like to be held when they are upset, avoid holding them. Similarly, if they do not want to hug an extended family member, they shouldn’t be forced to do so. Reading books about body boundaries, consent and privacy is a great way to start these tricky discussions.

Ages 6 to 8 

Usually, kids ask where babies come from by this age range. Though, it could be significantly earlier if they encounter a pregnant person (for instance, you or your partner) during that time. 

When addressing these questions, start by broadly addressing that two people coming together very very closely is a prerequisite for pregnancy. Then, answer follow-up questions that may pop up. Some kids will be satisfied by the bare minimum, while others will want more details. Feel free to start small with just a drop of information for them to absorb.

From there if they’re showing interest, you can go ahead and explain the way a sperm can fertilize an egg and how that can lead to pregnancy. Because this can be a confusing concept for even adults to grasp, visuals and diagrams can be helpful here! You can feel free to discuss how animals, trees and other things grow and come from “seeds” if that’s helpful.

Ages 8 to 12

Don’t hate the messenger, but puberty starts much earlier than most parents realize. Actually, data suggests that kids assigned female at birth (usually, girls) start puberty, on average, at age 11. Meanwhile, kids assigned male at birth (usually, boys) start at 12. Remember: these are averages, which means that half of kids are beginning puberty earlier than this. 

You want to talk to your child about what puberty is and could entail prior to them experiencing it. Access to knowledge about puberty will help them understand what their bodies are doing, rather than being afraid or ashamed of changes. Again, starting these talks early and often can cut down on embarrassment and keep lines of communication open. Try to anticipate their needs during these phases from deodorant to razors to menstrual supplies. Try not to gender your chats, as it’s important for any child to understand and have empathy for the experiences of those around them.

Ages 13+ 

It’s a good idea to talk to your child about sexual intercourse — and other sex acts — before they are doing them. And bluntly, your kids are probably engaging in sexual activity far earlier than you think. On average, kids are kissing by age 14 and having penetrative sex by age 17. 

Throughout their teens, you want to talk about what sexual activity should (and should not) feel like and address potential unwanted risks of said activity, and what they can do to protect themselves. Finally, you should get specific about consent, outlining about what verbal consent looks like, highlighting that it can be revoked at any point, and debriefing what consent looks like if drugs and alcohol are involved. 

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

The high school years can be challenging for sure, but this time is also an exciting opportunity for your teen to explore their identity and establish more confidence. 

Social 

As middle school students often reshuffle into different high schools, your child may lose and gain friendships. They may also shed social status as they enter a larger school with older students. All the while, they’ll be carving out their identity, seeking peer validation, and possibly starting their first romantic relationship. You might notice that your teen wants to try new styles of dressing, hang out with different friends, or explore different extracurricular activities. 

This can be an emotionally challenging time for parents as you might feel overwhelmed or concerned about your teen gaining even more independence. It can help to set some expectations and ground rules to keep your mind at ease and your teen safe. And especially as drugs, alcohol, sex, and more enter the picture, it’s important that you keep or establish open communication with each other.

If communication and/or connection have been a challenging part of your family dynamic,  now is the time to double down on your efforts through family meetings or other time together. Your teen may need boundaries, but they also need the reassurance that they can come to you with their hardest emotions and situations without fear.

Academic 

Your child’s classes will be both faster-paced and more stimulating in high school. Some students will even be able to take college-level “advanced placement” (AP) courses. They’ll have to learn to juggle school work with extracurriculars, part-time employment, and social obligations, which can cause some stress. Dropout rates vary across the country, but graduation rates are about 87%.

Starting in ninth grade, teachers and administrators will encourage your child to start making plans for after high school. If your child wants to pursue a bachelor’s degree, they will have to start the college application process, which may include taking the SAT or ACT in their junior year. Exciting and stressful, this time tends to create comparison and competition among teenagers (and sometimes even their parents). If you get the sense that your teen is getting a little too wrapped up in other people’s perceptions of them, try to help them re-center on what makes them happy and what they’re excited about for their future, independent of their friends’ plans. It’s easy to look for external validation, even as adults, but helping your teen find what brings them independent joy is so important.

Physiological 

Puberty will cause your child to develop physically, emotionally, sexually, and cognitively. They may experience mood swings and body image changes. It’s important to pay attention to their mental health as eating disorders are prevalent in teens and depression and other mental health conditions are rising. If you’re ever feeling concerned about your teen, persist in communicating with them about it. Choose a time when you’re both feeling relaxed and let them know that you’re there for them, that you care about their health and happiness, and that there are many paths to seek support if they need it. Offer examples of people they know who have needed more family support or therapy to normalize getting help.

While high schoolers can do many of the things adults can do, their brains are still developing into their early twenties. This means they’re not always great at future thinking and proactive planning and may still rely on your guidance for some of these tasks. A little parental patience goes a long way as they learn these valuable skills.

How to guide your teenager 

Some anxiety over all of the changes when starting high school is normal. But your child may be struggling more seriously with anxiety if they display some of the signs below.

• Not eating or sleeping as much as normal 
• Experiencing stomach aches, nausea, or headaches 
• Becoming more irritable or less lively than usual 
• Not wanting to go to school or attend extracurricular activities 

There are lots of ways to help guide your teen’s decision-making while promoting their independence. Here are some ideas. 

• Congratulate their efforts in addition to their achievements. Let them practice failure without fear of punishment.
• Encourage them to set goals beyond grades; have them envision the life they want to live after high school to help focus and motivate them in the short term. 
• Listen to them. Invite them to talk through solutions to their problems before you suggest any fixes or reframe their emotions.  
• Set consistent boundaries with your teenager. And if you have a partner, make sure they’re also enforcing these boundaries. 
• Be open to them exploring their identity. Experimenting with clothes and hairstyles is not the same as experimenting with drugs and alcohol. 
• Remember that some conflict with your teenager is normal and often the sign of a productive relationship. 
• Destigmatize reproductive health and talk about birth control options. 

You can also help your teen establish daily routines to thrive.

• Let them take a break and decompress after school. 
• Help them find a consistent time to complete homework. 
• Limit their social media engagement and overall screen time. 

How your teenager can thrive 

Considering your child may be driving and dating, they can take accountability for their wellbeing, too. This might look like:

• Viewing high school as a fresh start academically and socially 
• Participating in extracurriculars that they’re naturally good at but also exploring new activities 
• Seeking out a formal or informal mentor
• Using an agenda to track activities and assignments
• Using the “SMART” method to set goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound
• Getting enough sleep and considering journaling to process emotions before bed

This is an exciting time filled with change. Your teen is becoming a more full version of themself and even if they don’t always want you to know it, you’re an essential part of who they are today and who they will be in all the years to come. 

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Read more

• Mental health in the age of social media
• Body confident parenting

Sources

• “Transitioning from Middle School to High School.” AFFECT. University of Hawaii at Manoa College of Education. https://affect.coe.hawaii.edu/lessons/transitioning-from-middle-school-to-high-school/
• Tiara Tan. “Tips for a smooth transition to high school.” Children’s Health Queensland. Queensland Government. https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/blog-tips-for-a-smooth-transition-to-high-school/
• Laura Grey. “9 Tips for Helping Your Teen Transition to High School.” College Vine. College Vine. https://blog.collegevine.com/9-tips-for-helping-your-teen-transition-to-high-school/
• “7 Ideas for Handling the Transition from Middle School to High School.” Your Teen Magazine. Your Teen Magazine. https://yourteenmag.com/teenager-school/teens-high-school/transition-from-middle-school-to-high-school
• “How to Ease Your Child’s Transition From Middle to High School.” Commonwealth Charter Academy. Commonwealth Charter Academy. https://ccaeducate.me/blog/ease-students-transition-from-middle-to-high-school/
• Michael Lee Zwiers. “How to help your kids transition to high school.” The Conversation. The Conversation. August 22, 2017 https://theconversation.com/how-to-help-your-kids-transition-to-high-school-81018
• Grace Chen. “10 Ways Parents can Help Children Adjust to High School.” Public School Review. Public School Review. October 10, 2019. https://www.publicschoolreview.com/blog/10-ways-parents-can-help-children-adjust-to-high-school

How does middle school differ from elementary school? 

The middle school years are tremendously transformative. Your tween will experience healthy growth opportunities as well as complex logistical, academic, and emotional challenges.  

Middle school provides more independence than elementary school because it comes with less structure. Your child will have harder classes that require more intellectual horsepower and they’ll start taking more work home. They’ll confront social pressures while navigating physical and mental development.

Your child’s transition can be broken down into four categories.  

Logistical

In many instances, your child will have to attend a new physical school when they enter sixth grade, requiring them to adjust to different classroom locations and rules. This new school might come with a different timing for pickup and dropoff as well. 

In terms of classes, your teen will likely start “block scheduling,” which means longer, rotating classes with specialized teachers for each subject. This will require that they keep up with a slightly different schedule, various assignments each day, and potentially different teacher expectations. 

With so much class shuffling, they’ll have to start using a locker (often with a tricky combination lock) to store their things. Many middle schoolers have fun decorating their lockers to reflect their personality! If your tween attends a school without lockers, finding a large and well supported backpack can be helpful.

Academic 

Schools vary widely when it comes to curriculum, but here’s the general idea.

Whereas elementary school focuses on learning facts, middle school calls for more creative, big-picture thinking. Your child will consider how factual information merges into real-world concepts through open-ended assignments. They’ll be asked to form opinions about what they’re reading and they’ll explore new concepts in all their classes.  

In language arts, your child will read nonfiction books, conduct research, and create bibliographies. During math and science, they’ll use calculators to solve word problems, and learn about probability and statistics. In history and social studies, your child will consider historical events through different perspectives, comparing them to current events. 

Social 

Oftentimes a few elementary schools will funnel into one middle school, which means your child will foster new friendships, while maintaining previous ones. They’ll meet and adjust to new staff members and interact with older, more advanced students. It can be intimidating to be the youngest ones in the school, but they’ll get their bearings in no time. 

Puberty

As if all these changes weren’t enough, your child might start undergoing puberty around this time. Puberty can spark growth spurts and other physical developments such as menstruation or voice changes. Given their hormonal shifts, your child might feel more insecure or vulnerable than they had in elementary school. Continue your conversations about what to expect during puberty, so they know it’s all normal and that you are always there to help them with challenges.

Guiding your child’s middle school transition 

Encourage your child to be independent and responsible while still providing structure and security. Learning organization is also called “executive functioning” and it can take well into adulthood to master. Helping your child make lists or charts to get ready and pack their own bag and lunch (an independent morning!) is a place to start.

The most important thing when it comes to your relationship with your child (or any relationship!) is communication. When you talk to your child, do your best to validate their feelings and avoid passing judgment or minimizing their emotions. 

If they’re having a particularly hard day, it will likely make the most sense to just listen to them, rather than trying to solve anything. By doing this, you show them that you’re a soft landing place and that you’re really on their team. 

When it makes sense, encourage your child to see the positive aspects of any challenges they’re facing to build their self-confidence. For example, if your child is struggling at sports, take a moment later in the day to celebrate all the amazing work they’re doing in art class and tell them how much you admire them and their hard work. 

The below tips might also help your tween take on middle school. 

• Tour the middle school with your child and consider making a school map together. 
• Read through the student handbook together. 
• Create a daily routine for your child with designated times for study, play, chores, and extracurriculars — or even better, ask that they draft one. 
• Attend as many parent-teacher conferences and open houses as your schedule allows for. 
• Keep track of the usernames and passwords to your child’s technology platforms. Limit their time on all devices and make sure they log on in public areas of your home instead of their bedroom. 
• Focus on family meals when possible, everyone can take a tech break at these times.
• Take the embarrassment out of puberty by talking about it early and often, respect their needs for different personal products and privacy. Make sure they have access to personal care products in their bag or locker.

More tips for the middle school transition

In the spirit of raising more independent middle schoolers, your maturing tween can also smooth their transition to junior high by…

• Using an agenda to track assignments. Keeping an agenda doesn’t have to be boring! Bring on the sticky notes, colored pencils, and stickers to help get your child excited about staying organized. 
• Participating in different extracurricular activities to meet new people and try new things. 
• Arranging weekend gatherings with friends outside of school. 

Middle school presents a great opportunity to transition from the familiarity and comfort of elementary school before entering high school. With a balance of parental security and personal autonomy, your child can grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally.

Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

Sources

• “Preparing for Middle School.” Scholastic. Scholastic. https://www.scholastic.com/parents/school-success/school-life/grade-by-grade/preparing-middle-school.html
• “13 Tips for Success From a Middle School Principal.” Scholastic. Scholastic. https://www.scholastic.com/parents/school-success/school-involvement/13-tips-success-middle-school-principal.html
• “Kids’ Biggest Middle School Fears.” Scholastic. Scholastic. https://www.scholastic.com/parents/school-success/school-life/back-to-school/kids-biggest-middle-school-fears.html
• “Transitioning Young Adolescents from Elementary to Middle School.” AMLE. AMLE. November 2016. https://www.amle.org/research/transitioning-young-adolescents-from-elementary-to-middle-school/
• “How is Middle School Different from Elementary School?” Crimson Education. Crimson Education. December 27, 2021. https://www.crimsoneducation.org/us/blog/junior-prep/how-is-middle-school-different-from-elementary-school/
• “Understanding Tweens: A Transformative Age” Healthline. Healthline. July 30, 2020. https://www.healthline.com/health/understanding-tweens-a-transformative-age#parenting-advice
• “Managing the Stress of the Elementary to Middle School Transition.” UPMC Children’s Community Pediatrics. UPMC Children’s Community Pediatrics. https://www.childrenspeds.com/health-resources/school-age/elementary-middle-school-transition