I have two young kids. And their feelings are always SO BIG! The joy, anger, sadness. All of it is always big feelings. There are some new picture books that are good at talking about feelings with toddlers. Here are some of my favorites:
By Julie Fogliano
Illustrated by Marla Frazee
New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2026. Picture Book.
This book makes me laugh out loud as a parent. It talks all about how a young child won’t put on their shoes and instead goes through all the emotions (including responding to the frustrated emotions of their caregiver). Read this to the children who have meltdowns over what seem like small things (and then trigger possible grownup meltdowns as well). They will see all the emotions and feelings that build and bubble and burst into the world when things don’t go exactly as planned. Delightfully real.
By Cythia Rylant
New York: Beach Lane Books, 2026. Picture Book.
In three short sections this book describes what a cat, a dog, and children love. This is basically a list of what animals or children love. This book would be a great introduction to a conversation about what a specific child would love and what would be on their list. The short bits of text on each page (accompanied by one basic image) will resonate well with the youngest toddlers who are learning about reading books and need short bits of text with bold illustrations.
By Jashar Awan
New York: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2026. Picture Book.
When things don’t go their way, my children often get frustrated, cry, scream, or tell me they can’t do it (whatever it is they are trying to do). In this lovely picture book, a young child is trying to tie their shoelaces. And even though it is hard, and the child doesn’t quite do it the first time, the child stays positive and knows that it is okay. Children who need to see that hard things take time to learn will enjoy seeing this positive example of trying until they get it right.
By Ed Emberley
New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2025. Picture Book.
This may be my daughter’s favorite book on feelings. We have read it so many times, that I almost have it memorized. In this book there is a monster that is angry. As readers turn the pages, they can discover just how angry the monster is (with smoke and firecrackers showcasing just how angry they are). However, with some deep breaths, the monster can turn back into a happy child. This book has definitely helped my children think through how stopping and taking a breath can make almost any situation better.
By Julie Flett
Vancouver, British Columbia: Greystone Kids/Greystone Books, 2026. Picture Book.
If there is a youngster that needs a sweet book about love, this is the book for them. Readers learn how various animals may show love, just like people do. With lots of things to notice (both small like little animals in an underground burrow to big things like stars shining at night), children will see how love isn’t just the hugs you give family. Love is giving food when you are hungry or noticing bits of nature together. Toddlers who want to snuggle and feel loved will enjoy reading this book with their caregivers.
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