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Teaching expected behavior through read alouds is one of my favorite ways to target specific skills. Here are some of my favorites, broken down into categories of behaviors. These are some of the best books to teach social skills! Enjoy, and happy reading!
Classroom Behaviors and Skills
This section of books focuses on basic behaviors and skills that we would love to build in our students. From growth mindset to flexible thinking to stealing, these are the books to teach social skills!
Friendships and Relationships
Students do need explicit teaching when friendships and relationships get tough. However, books can help open doors, create space, introduce topics, and make connections.
Self Regulation and Self Control
The following books can both be helpful OR make students frustrated if personal connections are made too quickly. I love using these books along with resources like think sheets to help students problem solve for the characters. These are THE books to teach social skills like self awareness, waiting, and emotional regulation.
Mindfulness and Calming Strategies
Books are great at reinforcing! These books are great at reinforcing and supporting the teaching of skills like mindfulness and coping skills.
All of these books actually have a home in my classroom library. I regularly read them aloud to my class or to individual students. These books withstand the test of time and can be wonderful connection points for students. I hope you are inspired by this list and are ready to get reading, talking, and modeling in no time!
