Resources for Parents
Resources for Parents
Mental Health Books for Kids: Therapist-Recommended List
Mental Health Books for Kids: Therapist-Recommended List
Takeaways for busy parents:
- Finding the right words to explain a mental health diagnosis to a child can feel overwhelming. Books written specifically for kids can help open the conversation in an age-appropriate way.
- Parents don't have to navigate a new diagnosis alone. There are books written specifically for caregivers that offer guidance, research-backed strategies, and reassurance.
- Short, engaging videos can be a powerful tool for helping children understand their own brains and emotions in a way that feels relatable rather than clinical.
- You know your child best. Use these resources as a starting point and reach out whenever you need additional support.
Explore the full resource list here → Mental Health Resource List
Learning that your child may be struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or another mental health challenge can bring up a mix of emotions: concern, confusion, and sometimes relief. Wherever you are in that process, focusing on learning is empowering. Understanding what your child is experiencing helps you respond with patience and advocate more effectively at school. Modeling openness around mental health shows children they can carry these skills throughout life. Helping your child understand a diagnosis empowers them to see their strengths and better understand their difficulties.
At Foundations Therapy, we are always looking for ways to support families beyond the therapy room. To make the journey smoother, we have compiled a curated list of mental health resources, books for kids and parents, and videos explaining common childhood diagnoses that we recommend to the families we work with. The list is ever-evolving and being added to regularly.
Books for kids
A good book can do something direct conversation can't: it creates distance. When a child reads about a character who feels overwhelmed or struggles to sit still in class, they often feel less alone. These books were chosen because they present mental health topics honestly and accessibly, without talking down to children or making their challenges feel shameful. Whether your child has a formal diagnosis or is navigating a hard season, these stories can spark meaningful conversations.
Books for parents
Parenting a child with anxiety, ADHD, ODD, or other mental health challenges is a learning curve. No parent should have to navigate it without guidance. The books on our list are by clinicians and researchers who specialize in childhood mental health. They translate complex topics into practical, usable strategies. Reading alongside your child's therapeutic journey can reinforce the work in sessions. It can also deepen your understanding of your child's behavior. Knowledge reduces frustration and builds empathy. These books are a meaningful step toward both.
Videos explaining mental health diagnoses
Sometimes a short video can explain in five minutes what takes a full print chapter. This is particularly helpful for visual learners and children who are just beginning to understand their diagnosis. The videos on our list provide clear, kid-friendly explanations of common conditions. They are a great tool for families to watch together. Watch with your child and pause to talk about what resonates or doesn't. This can deepen their self-awareness and show that their experiences make sense.
A note on using these resources
No book or video is a substitute for professional support. These resources complement therapy. If you notice your child struggling with increased anxiety, persistent avoidance, frequent meltdowns, difficulty separating, poor academic performance, or social withdrawal, reach out to a mental health professional. At Foundations Therapy, we specialize in evidence-based treatment for children and families. We're here to help.
Explore the full resource list here → Mental Health Resource List
