parent and child snuggle in front of a window while reading a book with sparkly animationShare on Pinterest
Illustration by Alyssa Kiefer

If you’ve noticed a recent change in your child’s mood, behavior, or overall mental health, fear not. There’s a simple way to support your family in difficult times that may surprise you: Read them a story.

Storytelling is powerful. Doing it with the purpose of healing is known as bibliotherapy, and it’s been shown to be effective in helping reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in children and adolescents.  

Want to give it a try? It’s easy!

The seven-question quiz below is designed to help you pinpoint the issues your child may be facing. You’ll get a list of recommended books based on your answers, all of which have been vetted by mental health care professionals. 

While bibliotherapy can be an effective way to help you and your children navigate difficulty, it shouldn’t replace therapy or mental health treatment.

Think of bibliotherapy as a new addition to your parenting toolbox to support your family on the road to healing.