Picture books tagged with: co-operation

The King Who Banned the Dark

Children who are afraid of the dark may find comfort and acknowledgement here, but the story also explores themes of power, revolution, manipulation and acceptance which older children might enjoy discussing.

Along Came A Different

A fun story about different shapes who learn to put aside their differences and get along. Promotes open-mindedness, kindness and tolerance.

When a Dragon Comes to Stay

This lovely picture book promotes positive behaviour, but also gently suggests that even the most good-mannered and co-operative amongst us may struggle to be 'good' sometimes. A great starting point for a conversation about manners, treating others well and sharing.

Banana!

A simple and funny tale of two monkeys showing the importance of sharing, co-operation and saying "please".

The Boy in the Big Blue Glasses

A picture book which acknowledges that getting used to wearing glasses can be a challenge for some children. The boy in the story ultimately grows to accept them.

King Leonard’s Teddy

This book has a strong environmental message, encouraging children to make a difference by minimising waste. King Leonard is a positive role model: he changes his bad habits for good ones and in doing so shows kindness and persistence.

The Little Gardener

An environmentally conscious picture book which focusses on persistence and transformation: little things can make a big difference.

The Bumblebear

An amusing story that tells children about the importance of friendship, and that our differences can be our strength.

Hortense and the Shadow

This book encourages the reader to see strengths within themselves that they may have originally thought were weaknesses. It uses a quirky, abstract message to promote self-respect. It would be a good starting point for a conversation about tolerance and respect for others too.

Small Elephant’s Bathtime

Small children who are reluctant to take a bath or wash may recognise themselves in this simple and sweet book. There is a message for the reader here: co-operating with your parents is not so bad after all, and can lead to a lot of fun!

Edie

Inquisitive children who love to help will engage with Edie. They will be able to relate to her, and understands what she is doing. Furthermore, readers can be encouraged to look closely at the pictures, to see how any help Edie is giving might be received, and to think of ways in which their own helping strategies might be improved. This book affectionately explains a child’s thought processes, and reminds the adult reader that perhaps what might sometimes be seen as “naughtiness” is often just a small person’s way of helping.

Put Away Your Phone!

Encourages a child to develop strategies to manage situations that make them cross. Helps a child to see that phones can be useful in an emergency, and forces parents to consider how much time they may be spending on their devices.

The Wolf Who Cried Boy!

Challenges preconceptions that may be associated with unfamiliar situations, and promotes tolerance of other ways of life.

Doctor Monkey

This would be a great choice for a child who is poorly to read in bed.

I Can Make a Difference: A First Look at Setting a Good Example

Helps children to understand the importance of good manners, helping others and being considerate by setting a good example.

Witches and Fairies

Children can sometimes form friendship circles which exclude others, which can be difficult for the children left on the outside. This book focusses on Clotilda, a little girl who doesn't really fit into the group of fairies and group of witches she longs to play with.

Another Fine Mess

A tale about how each of us is responsible for our own rubbish and that one person's rubbish is another's treasure.

Lunch Boxes (Talking It Through)

Many different kinds of food and ways of eating healthily are shown to be fun and interesting. Diabetes, food allergies and vegetarianism are considered alongside broader concerns such as limiting sugary and fried food.

Hodge the Hedgehog

Encourages children to see the pleasure in sharing and playing well with others.

The Rainbow Fish

This may encourage a child to share.

It’s Not Your’s It’s Mine!

All young children find sharing extremely difficult. The story of Blieka and Blieka's beloved ball will help a small child to acknowledge their own feelings of possessiveness and see the benefits of sharing.

Manners in School

By encouraging children to behave in a thoughtful, polite and caring manner at school.

Hugh Shampoo

Children who dislike having their hair brushed, washed or cut may identify with the boy in the story.

At Home (Why Manners Matter)

This book covers the important aspects of living with others under the same roof while also providing good examples of the little things that can make life much more agreeable for everyone. It is written in a language that children can easily understand.

The Boy Who Cried Wolf

This cautionary tale emphasises that lying can sometimes backfire on you!

How do Dinosaurs Say I Love You?

The Selfish Crocodile

Encouraging sharing and co-operation.

ATCHOO: The Complete Guide to Good Manners

Appealing and amusing way to show children the consequences of unkindness and bad manners.

My Big Brother, Boris

Shows children that teenage siblings, although they spend more time with their friends and sometimes argue with Mum and Dad, will always love them and remain part of the family.

Little Croc and Bird

Clearly demonstrates the benefits of playing kindly with others and may motivate over-boisterous children to curb their enthusiasm. The final page in which Little Croc briefly reverts to his previous mischievous ways reassures children that they do not have to behave perfectly all the time.

I am Not Sleepy and I Will Not Go to Bed (Charlie and Lola)

A good starting point for a discussion on the importance of good bedtime habits!

Chill

Acknowledges that everyday situations may give rise to negative emotions in young children. The story offers some practical suggestions that young children can use to ease anxiety and frustration, such as deep breathing.