Did you know that by reading and telling stories, children begin to tackle some of life’s big questions: who are we and how did we come to be? 

In the playroom and in social settings, children begin to develop their identity through storytelling. Children often recount meaningful life experiences and events that both define and excite them. One of my daughter Louise’s favorite stories to tell is of the day we ran into a friend at the mall and then later at the beach. “It was craziest day ever!” This wonderful form of self-expression and communication helps children begin to manage their self-identity. 

But where does story-telling all begin?

One of the most valuable ways in which children begin to understand storytelling and story structure is by being read to by their parents, caretakers and teachers. Fairy tales are full of moral obligations, what is right and wrong, this where children begin to gain feeling of conscious and therefore self-worth. Fairy tales are also filled with enchantment and wonder, painting an imaginative world where a child is able to look inward and identify their own feelings and emotions. Ask your child: Why did that story make you so happy? 

Here are some of my favorite children’s books: 

Raise Your Hand by Alice Tapper

This book encourages girls to be brave, to be bold, and to participate! We must note that Alice Tapper was only 11 years old when she penned this beautiful book! 

Stand in my shoes Kids Learning About Empathy by Bob Sornson, Ph.D. 

This book introduces the concept of empathy and noticing the feelings of others. Do we need to say more!? 

Moody Cow Meditates by Kerri Lee MacLean

Kids can meditate too! This is a wonderful book for children and parents to share together and discuss the concept of mindfulness.  

What Do You Do With an Idea? By Kobi Yamada

Wow! Do we love this book! When we were developing Snickerdoos, we felt like we were going through all the same emotions as the lead character in What Do You Do With an Idea? From toddlers to adults, it can be scary to share our ideas and feelings; and Yamada beautifully helps to illustrate that is completely normal! 

And of course, you know my favorite costumes for supporting and enhancing a child’s story-telling: Snickerdoos!