Building Bridges Through Books: Happiness, Kindness, and Character Education

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.