When it comes to raising compassionate, resilient children, stories are some of the best teachers. I believe that books can gently open conversations about emotions, choices, and values, helping children learn how to navigate their world with kindness and joy. As both educators and parents know, children often absorb lessons best through play, storytelling, and imagination.

That’s where character education and social-emotional learning (SEL) meet children’s literature. Picture books with relatable characters and simple but profound messages can plant seeds that grow into lifelong habits of kindness, empathy, and happiness.

Here are three my books that naturally lend themselves to lessons in character and happiness:

How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon
This playful twist on the classic rhyme reminds children that perseverance and belief in oneself can make the impossible possible. It opens the door for classroom and home discussions about self-confidence, trying again, and celebrating each small success. Children begin to see that happiness often comes from courage and persistence.
SEL Connection: Growth mindset, self-confidence, resilience

The Monkeys Who Tried Kindness
In this story, monkeys discover the surprising power of kindness. Instead of competing or grabbing, they find that helping and sharing brings more joy to everyone. This tale invites children to reflect on their own choices: What happens when I am kind? How does it make me feel?
SEL Connection: Empathy, cooperation, kindness as a daily habit

A Boat Full of Animals
This lively gathering of creatures is more than just fun—it is a way of developing good habits in children. By assigning specific characteristics to each animal (the cat cleans up after herself, the bird makes sweet sounds, etc.) Children see how they can use those same qualities in their own lives. 30 fun games help fill a boat full of animals... within.
SEL Connection: Acceptance, happiness as a habit, self-worth

Why These Stories Matter
Each of these books opens a pathway for teachers and parents to engage children in social-emotional learning in a joyful, accessible way. Rather than “lessons,” they feel like adventures—adventures that leave children smiling while planting important seeds of kindness, confidence, and worthiness.

Whether read aloud in a classroom, shared before bedtime, or used as part of a character education curriculum, these stories make happiness something children can feel, understand, and share.

Takeaway: Stories bridge the gap between lessons and lived experience. Books like How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon, The Monkeys Who Tried Kindness, and A Boat Full of Animals remind us that happiness is not only a feeling—it’s a practice, rooted in kindness, courage, and community.

Every child carries a little “ark” inside them — a place where imagination meets possibility. And aboard that ark, animals of all shapes and sizes can climb aboard to teach valuable lessons. This isn’t just fantasy — it’s how children learn qualities that shape their character and carry them through life.

That’s the playful idea behind my book, A Boat Full of Animals. Instead of simply telling children how to behave, it invites them to play “animal games” that help them practice good habits, positive attitudes, and life skills — all while having fun.

In this blog, I’d like to share why animals are such powerful teachers, give you a peek inside these animal games, and show how this imaginative journey can help children grow strong on the inside.

Why Animals Make the Best Teachers for Kids
Children are naturally drawn to animals. From the tiniest bug to the tallest giraffe, each creature sparks curiosity. But animals do more than fascinate — they also mirror qualities children can imitate and learn from.

• A cat reminds us to stay clean and care for our surroundings.
• A bird shows the joy of making sweet sounds and lifting others’ spirits.
• A dog models loyalty and friendship.
• A giraffe inspires us to stretch toward our greatness.

By giving children animal role models, we bypass the need for lectures. Instead, we tap into play, imagination, and story — the natural language of childhood.

The Magic of Playing "Animal Games"
In A Boat Full of Animals, each animal represents a specific quality. The child plays a little “game” with that animal to earn its place on their imaginary boat. Thirty animals in all climb aboard, and each one brings something special:

• The Cat Game – cleaning up after yourself.
• The Bird Game – making sweet sounds.
• The Dog Game – being a good friend.
• The Monkey Game – learning to laugh and play.
• The Hippopotamus Game – being generous.

And so it goes… thirty animals, thirty lessons, thirty playful ways for children to practice inner strengths.
The idea is simple: by “collecting” animals on their boat, children also collect qualities within themselves. It becomes a joyful, imaginative path toward confidence and character.

Why This Matters for Parents and Teachers
Childhood is when habits are formed. If we can give children playful, positive associations with good habits, they’ll carry them for a lifetime. That’s the deeper goal of A Boat Full of Animals:

• Responsibility through fun – Cleaning up isn’t a chore when it’s “the Cat Game.”
• Self-expression through joy – Singing or speaking kindly becomes “the Bird Game.”
• Confidence through practice – Each animal earned is proof the child can grow stronger.

Instead of nagging or correcting, parents and teachers can say: “Shall we play the Dog Game today?” and suddenly, a lesson becomes a game.

Inside the Pages of A Boat Full of Animals
The book uses simple rhymes, colorful illustrations, and a lighthearted tone to invite children into the world of animal games. Each page introduces an animal, describes the quality it represents, and encourages the child to “earn” that animal by practicing the quality in daily life.

It’s not just a book to read once — it’s an interactive guide children can return to, each time adding another animal to their “boat” inside. Parents often tell me that children love keeping track of their animals and proudly announcing which qualities they’ve “earned.”

This makes the book a tool for:

• Parents at home who want fun ways to reinforce good habits.
• Teachers in classrooms looking for social-emotional learning activities.
• Grandparents who want to give gifts that are both entertaining and meaningful.
  

3 Ways to Use This Book with Children
If you’d like to make the most of A Boat Full of Animals, here are three simple ways to bring it to life:

1. Play One Game at a Time
   Focus on one animal a week. Introduce it, play the game, and let your child practice. At the end of the week, celebrate that the animal has “boarded the boat.”
2. Use the Games as Gentle Reminders
   Instead of saying, “Clean up your toys,” you can say, “Shall we play the Cat Game?” It turns correction into encouragement.
3. Celebrate Progress Together
   Each new animal earned is a milestone. Keep a chart, draw pictures, or let your child tell stories about their growing boat.

These small steps keep the book alive long after the first read.

Get the Book
Click here to get A Boat Full of Animals on amazon.
Want to explore all of my children’s books? Browse my full catalog here.

Final Thought: Building a Strong Boat Inside
Every child faces challenges -- but when they carry kindness, responsibility, joy, and confidence within them, they’re ready to sail through life. A boat full of animals is more than a storybook; it’s a playful way to help children fill their inner boat with qualities that last forever.

And what could be happier than that?

There’s something magical about the first time we try something new. It could be as simple as tasting a new food, stepping into a new class, or taking on a new challenge that once felt impossible. The thrill of discovery, the surprise of success, and the joy of growth are experiences that bring energy to our lives.

But trying something new isn’t always easy. Many of us, like the cow in the delightful story How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon, get stuck in routines. We chew and chew—doing the same things in the same way—until life begins to feel small, repetitive, and uninspired.

This book offers children (and all of us!) a playful reminder: the adventure begins when we’re willing to step out of the familiar and into the unknown.

The Trap of “That’s All I Do”
In the story, the cow has a comfortable life. A big field, endless grass, and a safe routine. But comfort can quickly turn into boredom. She turns away opportunity after opportunity—a frog invites her to hop, a dog to swim, a pig to wallow, a horse to race. Each time, the cow replies, “I chew and chew. I stay in this pasture. That’s all I do.”

How often do we say something similar in our own lives?

• “I don’t dance. That’s not me.”
• “I could never learn to paint.”
• “Technology? Too confusing.”
• “Travel? No, I wouldn’t know how.”

We tell ourselves we don’t know how—and stop before we even start. Just like the cow, we let fear, self-doubt, or habit fence us in. Kids can do the same.

The Power of Encouragement
What makes this story so fun is that every animal encourages the cow to do something new. The frog, the dog, the pig, and the horse all try. But it’s the chicken who finally makes a difference.

Why? Because the chicken shows how. She explains:

1. Want it. You have to first desire the change.
2. Try. Take a step, even if small.
3. Never stop. Keep going until success comes.
   

This simple recipe is the secret to every big achievement, whether it’s learning to play piano, running a marathon, starting a business, or yes—even jumping over the moon.

The cow finally realizes, “If a chicken can do it, I can too.” And so she tries, and tries again, until she succeeds.

The Lesson for Children (and Adults)
One of the best gifts we can give children is the courage to try new things. Whether it’s a new sport, a subject in school, making a friend, or performing on stage, these first attempts can be intimidating. Stories like How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon teach in a lighthearted way that persistence, curiosity, and courage open doors.

And let’s be honest—it’s not only children who need this reminder. Adults too can get stuck in routines and ruts. Sometimes it takes a playful little cow to remind us that life is richer when we allow ourselves to leap.

How Trying Something New Changes Us
Why is it so important to embrace new experiences? Here are just a few ways daring to try something new changes us:

• Builds confidence. Each new success, no matter how small, strengthens belief in ourselves.
• Expands creativity. New experiences fuel imagination and inspire fresh ideas.
• Breaks boredom. Routine is comfortable, but it can become dull. Variety adds sparkle to life.
• Encourages resilience. We learn that failure isn’t final—it’s just another step toward success.
• Opens connections. New hobbies or adventures often lead us to meet new people and form new friendships.
  

The cow’s leap over the moon may be whimsical, but it captures the truth: trying something new can lift us to places we never thought we could reach.

A Story to Inspire
How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon is more than a playful twist on a classic nursery rhyme. It’s an invitation to children (and the child inside us all) to live boldly.

It reminds us that:

• We don’t have to stay stuck in the same field, doing the same things.
  
• 
  
• We can dream bigger, want more, and dare to do the impossible.
• With encouragement, persistence, and belief, even a cow can jump over the moon.
  

And once we’ve succeeded in one daring adventure, the world opens wide. Like the cow, we’re no longer bored. Instead, we begin dreaming up new adventures—then going out and doing them.

Bringing the Lesson Home
Parents and teachers can use this story as a springboard to encourage children to:

• Try a new food at dinner.
• Read a different type of book.
• Join a new game at recess.
  
• Attempt a new art project or sport.
• Share one thing they’d like to try and take the first step toward it.

Even the simple act of asking, “What’s something new you’d like to do today?” can spark fresh energy and growth.

A Leap Toward Joy
At its heart, How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon is about joy. Joy in discovery, in courage, in trying, and in finally succeeding.

It’s a story that children will laugh at, adults will smile over, and everyone will remember when they face their next “No, no, I don’t know how.”

Because deep down, we all want to jump over our own moon.

Discover the Book
If you’d like to share this whimsical, inspiring tale with the children in your life, you can find How the Cow Jumped Over the Moon by Sally Huss by clicking here. 

Browse my whole collection of children's
books:  https://www.sallyhuss.com/childrens-books.html


Filled with cheerful illustrations and a timeless message, it’s a book that makes trying new things fun.
Encourage your little ones to dream big, leap high, and never stop trying—because one day, they too may find themselves jumping over the moon.

Long ago I created a book called THE HAPPY BOOK with exercises to promote happiness. Ten-Speed Press Published it. Then, readers of that book requested a children's version. Here is a description of the children's version.

Every child wants to feel capable, confident, and happy — and what better way to grow those qualities than through play? A BOAT FULL OF ANIMALS: 30 Games to Develop Life Skills is a delightful and interactive guide for parents, educators, and children to learn important life skills while having fun.

The book offers 30 creative animal games that help children develop values, morals, and positive character traits. The concept is simple: each game represents an animal and a special quality it embodies. After each game, children “invite” the animal onto their imaginary boat, adding its trait to their personal collection. By the end of the book, kids will have a boat full of skills, traits, and happiness to carry with them throughout life.

How the Games Work
In the book, I encourage children to imagine a boat inside of themselves. This could be a schooner, a speedboat, a cruise ship, a tanker, or even an ark. After playing each game, the animal from that game boards their boat, bringing its unique quality along.

“By the time they finish all 30 games, each child should be a lighthouse of happiness with a boat full of everything that child needs to keep sailing smoothly wherever he or she may go.”

Sample Games
1. The Giraffe Game
The giraffe’s most remarkable feature is its long neck — perfect for reaching leaves on top of the acacia trees. This game encourages children to “stretch themselves” by trying new things, taking chances, and expanding their comfort zones. By the end of the day, children imagine their giraffe on board, carrying its adventurous spirit with them.

Life Skills Learned:

• Courage to try new things
• Overcoming fear of the unknown
  
• Expanding personal limits

2. The Dolphin Game
Dolphins are known for their joyful appearance and friendly nature. Children are encouraged to smile first, last, and always — spreading a positive attitude and kindness wherever they go. By playing this game, kids experience the magic of a simple smile and learn how it can influence themselves and others.
Life Skills Learned:

• Friendliness and empathy
• Understanding the power of positivity
• Practicing joy and mindfulness

Here are the Titles of  all the Games
1. The Giraffe Game – Stretching Your Greatness
Learn to try new things, take chances, and expand personal limits.
2. The Dolphin Game – The Importance of a Smile
Practice friendliness and positivity by smiling throughout the day.
3. The Bird Game – Making Sweet Sounds
Discover how joy and expression can brighten the world around you.
4. The Cat Game – Cleaning Up After Yourself
Learn responsibility and the importance of taking care of your surroundings.

5. The Dog Game – Being a Good Friend
Practice loyalty, kindness, and supporting those around you.
6. The Hippopotamus Game – Being Generous
Experience giving and sharing with joy.
7. The Monkey Game – Being Helpful
Learn to lend a hand and assist others whenever possible.
8. The Bear Game – Going to Sleep Happily
Develop good bedtime routines and relaxation habits.
9. The Anteater Game – Telling the Truth
Build honesty and trustworthiness.
10. The Zebra Game – Appreciating Differences
Celebrate diversity and the unique qualities in others.

11. The Frog Game – The Importance of Sticking to It
Cultivate perseverance and determination.
12. The Beaver Game – Working Happily
Learn to approach tasks with joy and dedication.
13. The Camel Game – The Importance of Love and Kindness
Practice compassion and caring for others.
14. The Octopus Game – Appreciating Others
Recognize and value the people around you.
15. The Pig Game – Building a Strong Body
Encourage healthy habits and physical activity.
16. The Rabbit Game – Listening and Paying Attention
Develop focus and mindfulness.

17. The Penguin Game – The Importance of Good Grooming
Learn self-care and personal responsibility.
18. The Duckling Game – Following Directions
Build listening skills and discipline.
19. The Opossum Game – Learning Patience
Practice waiting, understanding, and self-control.
20. The Horse Game – Appreciating Beauty
Notice and celebrate the beauty in the world.
21. The Turtle Game – Finding a Quiet Place
Learn to reflect, relax, and find inner calm.

22. The Rhinoceros Game – Setting and Accomplishing Goals
Develop goal-setting skills and the drive to achieve them.
23. The Squirrel Game – Saving for the Future
Practice planning, organization, and foresight.
24. The Elephant Game – Knowing Your Own Greatness
Build self-confidence and recognize personal strengths.
25. The Lion Game – Maintaining a Good Attitude
Cultivate optimism and a positive mindset.
26. The Wolf Game – Not Being Fooled
Learn discernment, critical thinking, and awareness.

27. The Moose Game – Appreciating Yourself
Develop self-esteem and self-love.
28. The Ostrich Game – Learning from Mistakes
Understand that mistakes are opportunities to grow.
29. The Kangaroo Game – Giving Support
Practice empathy and helping others succeed.
30. The Turkey Game – Being Thankful
Encourage gratitude and recognizing the blessings in life.

Why This Book Matters
Happy children help create happy families, neighborhoods, and even communities. By teaching life skills and positive character traits in a playful and memorable way, A BOAT FULL OF ANIMALS helps children develop essential tools for life while keeping joy at the forefront.
This book is perfect for:

• Parents looking for meaningful activities to do with their children
• Educators who want to incorporate character development into their curriculum
• Caregivers and group leaders seeking fun, structured games that build life skills

By the end of the book, children will have a boat full of animals and qualities — courage, kindness, joy, and more — ready to guide them as they sail through life.

Click here to find this book on Amazon.
Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore all of my children's books.

What could be more magical than a tea party under the sea? In A Mermaid Tea Party – Kindness from the Heart children are invited into a shimmering underwater classroom where lessons go far beyond how to sip tea properly. This enchanting story, available in both its original and multicultural versions, uses playful mermaids, friendly dolphins, and a wise teacher to show that kindness is the most important ingredient at any gathering.

A Story that Sparkles with Imagination
From the very first page, young readers meet Maggie the Mermaid, who eagerly swims off to school on the day of a very special event. The class will be learning about tea parties. But as Maggie and her friends discover, a tea party is more than cups and cakes—it’s an opportunity to practice kindness, respect, and appreciation.

Children will delight in the whimsical details of this undersea celebration. From seaweed tablecloths and pearl platters to sandwiches, sweets, and the star of the party—the teapot—every page bursts with color and imagination. Yet what makes this book so special is that it teaches something deeper: kindness is the true treasure.

Lessons in Kindness and Care
Miss Crandall, the mermaids’ teacher, guides the party with gentle wisdom. She explains that every cup of tea is not just tea—it’s filled with care, appreciation, and loving thoughts. As each mermaid carefully passes the cup along, she adds her kindness to it, creating a chain of giving.

The lesson goes further when Miss Crandall reminds her students that whenever we offer something to another, it must not be empty. Whether it’s a cup, a bowl, or even a sand bucket, what we give should carry value—whether that’s food, helpfulness, or warm-heartedness. This concept becomes a powerful symbol for children: always give with fullness, never with emptiness.

Everyday Applications for Children
After the party, Maggie takes what she learned back home. She helps her mother with chores, not as tasks to get through, but as opportunities to add kindness and joy. Setting the table, dusting the furniture, and preparing dinner become little celebrations of caring.

This makes the story relatable and practical. Children learn that kindness doesn’t have to wait for special events. It can be practiced every day—whether sharing toys, helping parents, thanking teachers, or treating friends with thoughtfulness.

Why Parents and Teachers Love This Book
Beyond its adorable illustrations and delightful storytelling, A Mermaid Tea Party – Kindness from the Heart gently models:

• Politeness and good manners in everyday situations.
• The importance of gratitude and saying thank you.
• Respect for others’ belongings by handling things with care.
• Consideration for others by not taking more than needed.
• The joy of giving and receiving kindness in small ways.

The multicultural version of the book makes it even more inclusive, allowing children from diverse backgrounds to see themselves in the story while embracing universal values of kindness.

A Gentle Reminder for Us All
At the heart of the story lies a timeless truth: when we treat others with care and appreciation, every day becomes a celebration. The mermaids’ tea party might have ended, but their lesson continues—every act of kindness is like serving tea with love, passing it along, and making the world a more beautiful place.

Whether read at bedtime, in classrooms, or during special storytimes, A Mermaid Tea Party – Kindness from the Heart is a book that leaves children smiling, inspired, and ready to add kindness to their own lives.

Click here to find this book on Amazon.
Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore all of my books.

Children love to move, to skip, to twirl, and to dance. Dancing is one of the purest expressions of joy, and sometimes it takes just one free-spirited child to remind everyone of its magic. Meet Allison Rose, a little girl who can’t stop dancing. From the moment she wakes until the stars appear, she’s on her toes — inviting the whole world to join her in the celebration of movement.

The Story of Allison Rose
Allison Rose dances on her toes,
And all she ever wears are dancing clothes.
She dances on her bed when she gets up in the morning,
Donning her clothes, which are never boring.
She dances in the kitchen where she goes to eat.
She dances in the living room, waking her cat from its sleep.

She dances in the garden. She dances at school.
She even dances underwater in the swimming pool.
She dances all day until late at night.
Others thought it was an extraordinary sight.
Anyone could see that Allison Rose
Is a dancer from the bottom of her feet to the tip of her nose.

But why? Why do you dance wherever you go?”
A growing crowd wants to know.
Then she turns and speaks to the baffled collection,
Who are keeping her under their close-eyed inspection.
“Dancing keeps me on my toes.
That’s all I have to say about that,” says Allison Rose.

But then she thinks it would be more fun
If she were not the only one.
“Why not join me?” she asks.
“What kind of dancing would you choose,
If you had on dancing shoes?”
Hmmm, they think,
What a most tantalizing thought.
So, she offers a number of suggestions,
Hoping that they will make some interesting selections.

“There is toe dancing, sometimes called ballet,
And slow dancing in which the dancers sway.
There is square dancing, which requires a group to participate,
And chair dancing in which your arms must hesitate.
In this dance you never leave your seat
And are only allowed to move your feet.

Germans like their polkas and schottische,
And there are jigs for the Irish and Scottish.
There is dancing like Zorba the Greek,
And to do the limbo, the Jamaicans must not be weak.
The proper English prefer tea dancing,
And some at rock concerts swear by free dancing.
There are dances for the bride and groom,
And waltzes that fill a ballroom.

There are rumbas and sambas and tangos,
And even flamboyant fandangos.
The South Americans never stop with just a few.
They are always coming up with something new.
You might like the cha-cha-cha,
Or their delightful cucaracha-cha.
How about a lovely quadrille,
Or a simpler dance in the form of a reel?

In France the ladies do the can-can,
But don’t try it unless you think you can can.
There are some silly dances like belly dances,
Grizzly bear dances, and tarantella dances.
And there are even dances for loafers called clogging,
And dances for loggers on logs called logging.
There is, of course, fox-trotting, bunny hopping,
Jitterbugging, and hip hopping.

Then again you might prefer a line dance,
Every cowboy considers it a fine chance.
Tap dancing was popular long ago.
So was the colorful Caribbean calypso.
You might not be up to the Polish mazurka dance,
And would wish to join in a more peaceful May pole dance.

Keep in mind that there are many dances with dips,
And many others requiring flips,
And still other dances that wiggle hips.
As Allison Rose rattles on,
Her suggestions begin to catch on.

The crowd begins to pick up their feet.
They discover that dancing is indeed a treat.
She calls out, “It doesn’t matter. Choose any style.
Each will lead you to a smile.”
As they boogie-woogie to their hearts’ delight,
They find that even cowgirls love dancing in the moonlight.

Then they all yell, “Thank you, Allison Rose,
For unlocking our dancing toes.”
Now which dance would you choose,
If you had on dancing shoes?

The end… but not the end of dancing.
“Dancing with the feet is one thing.
Dancing with the heart is another.”

Why This Story Matters
Children naturally respond to rhythm and movement, and dancing builds both body and spirit. This story celebrates:

• Self-expression — encouraging children to move in ways that feel natural and joyful.
• Cultural awareness — highlighting many styles of dance from around the world.
• Confidence — showing that one child’s enthusiasm can inspire a whole community.
• Creativity — inviting young readers to imagine what style of dancing they might choose.

Allison Rose shows us that dance is more than movement. It’s joy, connection, and freedom — all rolled into one.

A Closing Thought
Allison Rose reminds us that dancing is more than steps and styles — it is joy in motion. Whether twirling in the kitchen, gliding across a garden, or simply tapping to a tune, dance gives children a way to express themselves freely. Her story is a celebration of imagination, movement, and the happiness that spreads when one child’s delight inspires others to join in.

Click here to find this book on Amazon.
Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page. This book is also available in a multicultural version.

This series inspires children to be healthy by combining playful stories with meaningful lessons in exercise, nutrition, kindness, and safety. Each book encourages positive habits that build strong bodies, caring hearts, and confident choices.

Let’s Get Moving!
Let’s Play: The Importance of Exercise invites children to discover the joy of movement. Whether through team sports, individual activities, or free play, kids learn that exercise isn’t a chore — it’s exciting, energizing, and full of friendship.

Click here to get "Let's Play: The Importance of Exercise" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VtEbes
Browse my whole collection of children's books:  https://www.sallyhuss.com/childrens-books.html

Caring for Our Bodies
Everyone Has Eyes, Who Needs Teeth? and Hands Are for Helping introduce children to the wonders of their bodies and how to care for them. These playful books help establish simple, healthy routines that can last a lifetime.

Click on the cover of any book above to get it on Amazon.
Browse my whole collection of children's books:  https://www.sallyhuss.com/childrens-books.html

Healthy Eating Habits
In One Green Omelet, Please! and I Love Pizza!, children discover where food comes from and that food can be both fun and nourishing. With lively stories about ingredients and gratitude, kids learn that healthy eating is delicious, adventurous, and something to celebrate.

Click the cover of either book to get it on Amazon.
Browse my whole collection of children's books:  https://www.sallyhuss.com/childrens-books.html

Making Good Choices
No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs encourages children to avoid harmful substances in a gentle, supportive way. The message is clear: staying safe and healthy means making smart choices that help kids grow strong and confident.

Click on the cover of this book to get it on Amazon.
Browse my whole collection of children's books:  https://www.sallyhuss.com/childrens-books.html

Kindness and Helping Others
Helpful Henry shines a light on empathy, sharing, and compassion. Through Henry’s story, children see that kindness doesn’t just help others — it helps them feel happy and connected too.

Click on the cover of this book to get it on Amazon.
Browse my whole collection of children's books:  https://www.sallyhuss.com/childrens-books.html

Awareness and Inclusion
The Food Allergy Series builds understanding and safety in a positive, inclusive way. Kids learn how to protect themselves and care for friends with allergies, fostering empathy and awareness of others’ needs.

Click on the cover of any book to get it on Amazon.
Browse my whole collection of children's book. Click here.

More to Explore
Many of these books are available in a multicultural version.

All of these books may be found on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore these stories along with many more.

Why the Happy Healthy Children’s Series Works
This special collection is more than just books — it’s a toolkit for parents, teachers, and caregivers. By blending fun storytelling with lessons in health, kindness, and safety, The Happy Healthy Children’s Series urges children to be their best. These books help children develop habits that promote lifelong well-being, offering a spark of joy, a touch of wisdom, and a brighter path toward a happy, healthy future.

Introduction: Why Helping Children Handle Worry Matters
Worry and stress are part of life—even for children. Starting school, facing a big change at home, or dealing with something unique to them can stir up anxious feelings. While adults may see these moments as small, to children they can feel overwhelming.

That’s where books can help. Stories give children both comfort and tools to handle emotions. Through characters and simple lessons, kids learn they are not alone, and that they can take steps to feel calm and strong.

Below are several children’s books that focus on different situations that commonly cause worry or stress—and show children how to handle them with courage.

The Trick to Being Fearless
This uplifting book introduces children to the idea that words can change how they feel. Instead of letting fear control them, kids learn that they can use a special “trick” to transform their perception of a situation. By shifting how they think and speak about fear, children suddenly feel powerful and in charge.

It’s a joyful lesson that teaches kids: fear is not bigger than they are.
(This book is also available in a multicultural version.)

Welcome to Kindergarten
The transition from preschool to kindergarten is one of the first big steps in a child’s life—and it often comes with nervousness. In Welcome to Kindergarten, children follow along with characters who are also facing the unknowns of a new classroom, new teachers, and new friends.

The story reassures children that they are not alone in their feelings, and that school is a place for learning, fun, and growth. By the end, what seemed scary becomes exciting, helping ease that big leap into kindergarten.

(This book is also available in multicultural, Spanish, and bilingual versions.)

Our Father’s Smile
Children with a parent leaving on deployment or for extended time away often experience deep sadness and worry. Our Father’s Smile gently addresses this fear of separation. Through story, children are reminded that even when a parent isn’t physically present, love remains constant.

The book gives children comfort and emotional resilience, helping them find smiles, hope, and strength during a time of change.
(This is a multicultural book.)

Max’s Big Adventure
For children with food allergies, traveling or eating away from home can feel scary. What if something goes wrong? What if they can’t enjoy what everyone else does?

Max’s Big Adventure follows a child with allergies as he faces these challenges with courage. The story shows children that they can still explore, have fun, and feel safe—even with special precautions. It encourages kids to be proactive and confident, rather than fearful, about their allergies.

Why Books Like These Matter
What makes these books so valuable is that they don’t just name the fears—they give children a way to face them. Whether it’s a simple phrase, reassurance through love, or practical confidence, each story becomes a tool a child can carry with them.

• The Trick to Being Fearless → teaches power over fear through words.
• Welcome to Kindergarten → reassures children during school transitions.
• Our Father’s Smile → comforts kids facing separation from a parent.
• Max’s Big Adventure → empowers children with allergies to travel without fear.

Each story reminds children: You are not powerless. You can handle this.

Parent Tips: Reading to Calm Worry
When reading these books, parents can help strengthen the lessons by:

1. Talking About the Story – Ask your child if they’ve ever felt the way the character does.
2. Making it Personal – Encourage them to use the tricks or lessons in their own lives.
3. Re-reading Often – Use the books before transitions, trips, or difficult moments.
4. Adding Encouragement – Celebrate when your child applies the lesson on their own.
   

Final Thoughts: Courage Through Story
Every child faces worry. But with the right tools—and the right stories—those worries don’t have to take over. Books like The Trick to Being Fearless, Welcome to Kindergarten, Our Father’s Smile, and Max’s Big Adventure offer children guidance, reassurance, and courage.

They remind children that fears can be faced, challenges can be managed, and with the right perspective, life can be joyful and exciting—even in the face of worry.

These books may be found on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore this story along with many more.

Teaching children good character and values is one of the most important gifts we can give them. Reading stories that showcase kindness, responsibility, teamwork, and good decision-making helps young minds understand how to act in the world—and makes learning these lessons fun and memorable.

Here are some of my favorite titles that help children explore character and values while enjoying a story:

1. It’s Easy to Be Nice – Kindness
Kindness is a value that shapes everything from friendships to school life. It’s Easy to Be Nice shows children how small, thoughtful gestures can make a big difference. From helping a friend pick up a dropped toy to saying a cheerful hello, this story encourages children to see kindness as an everyday choice.

2. Let’s Everybody Fish – Teamwork
Teamwork is all about working together to reach a goal, and this book makes it fun! Let’s Everybody Fish follows a group of friends as they combine their skills, learn to communicate, and support one another. The story demonstrates that when everyone works together, success—and a lot of fun—follows.

3. No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs – Making Good Choices
Children are faced with many choices every day, and helping them understand right from wrong is key. No Smoking, No Drinking, No Drugs provides a simple, age-appropriate guide to making good choices. Through playful storytelling, children learn that their decisions shape their lives in positive ways.

4. One Green Omelet, Please! – Appreciation
Gratitude and appreciation are values that can help children enjoy life more fully. In One Green Omelet, Please!, kids discover the joy of saying thank you and noticing the little things that make life special. Whether it’s enjoying a meal or appreciating a friend’s effort, this story encourages children to pause and be thankful.

5. Positive Pete – Positive Attitude
A positive attitude can make challenges easier to handle. Positive Pete introduces children to the power of optimism. Pete faces small setbacks but learns to look on the bright side and find solutions with a cheerful heart. This story teaches that staying positive can influence both your day and those around you.

6. Think Green, Think Green – Responsibility
Responsibility is an important life lesson, and Think Green, Think Green does an excellent job of making it relatable. Children follow the adventures of friends who care for their environment, learning that even small acts—like recycling or picking up litter—help make a difference.

7. Helpful Henry – Being Helpful
Helping others is a value that builds empathy and community. Helpful Henry follows a young boy who discovers the joy of lending a hand. From assisting neighbors to supporting friends, Henry shows that helping isn’t just about doing chores—it’s about making people feel valued and loved.

8. Better Than a Princess – Good Manners
Good manners are more than etiquette—they’re expressions of respect and consideration. Better Than a Princess teaches children that showing courtesy, saying please and thank you, and being polite can be more admirable than any fairy-tale crown.

Reading books that teach character and values is a wonderful way to guide children toward becoming thoughtful, caring, and confident individuals. Each story provides an engaging way to explore important life lessons, making reading both enjoyable and meaningful.
Encourage children to reflect on these stories, discuss the values presented, and think about how they can apply them in their own lives. With the help of books like these, children learn that good choices, kindness, teamwork, and responsibility aren’t just words—they’re actions that shape who they are.

These books may be found on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page and explore this story along with many more.

Children are natural storytellers and story-listeners. They love the rhythm of rhymes, the excitement of adventure, and the comfort of happy endings. But beyond the fun of tales and poems lies something much deeper: stories shape the way children understand the world. They give kids a safe space to explore big ideas like honesty, courage, and — most importantly — kindness.

One beautiful example is the book The Monkeys Who Tried Kindness.

In this story, a pack of monkeys in the jungle is falling apart. They fuss and fight, bite and bicker, and forget how to care for one another. Teenagers act out. Grandparents look the other way. Everyone becomes selfish, fearful, and even sickly.

The jungle is turning into a miserable place.

They realize that they are in trouble and need to change. They don't know what to do. Then, a small voice calls out: “Kindness.”

At first, the monkeys don’t understand. But when they decide to give kindness a try, something extraordinary happens. The jungle changes. The monkeys share, care, and respect one another. Life improves in every way.

This playful tale is more than just monkey mischief. It’s a lesson children can take to heart: kindness is powerful. When we treat others with respect and care, we create a happier, healthier world — for everyone.

Why Storytelling Works So Well for Kids
Stories like this do more than entertain. They:

• Make lessons memorable. Children are more likely to remember a message wrapped in a fun rhyme or tale than in a lecture.
• Encourage empathy. By seeing characters struggle, make mistakes, and grow, kids learn to recognize and value emotions in themselves and others.
• Offer solutions. Stories show that even tough problems — like selfishness and fighting — can be solved with positive choices.
• Spark conversation. After reading, parents and teachers can talk with children about what kindness means in their own lives.
  

A Takeaway for Parents and Teachers
Children don’t need long explanations about morality; they need stories that bring lessons to life. When kids see monkeys learning kindness, they can better imagine how kindness works in their homes, classrooms, and playgrounds.

The Monkeys Who Tried Kindness is a gentle reminder that the simplest ideas often bring the greatest changes.
If you’d like to share this story with a child you love, you’ll find The Monkeys Who Tried Kindness and many more of my children’s books, on Amazon through my website. Simply click here to visit my Children’s Books page.