Jennifer LytleManaging Stress With Quality Literature
You know that feeling after a long day at work when you have given in to the idea of fast food, and you get home to pass out everyone’s selected meal choices, but someone didn’t get what they ordered? Panic. Frustration. Anger. Self-righteous vows to cancel that shop F O R E V E R.
All of these emotions are normal in stressful seasons. Bibliotherapy is a legitimate form of stress relief. Reading together, reading quietly side-by-side, and read alouds are excellent ways to increase and deepen connection between parent and child. What’s more wonderful about connecting through literature is that there is no age limitation. It would be a mistake to relegate reading to younger children. Older children and teens can benefit greatly through family reading time.
Value-Add for Sharing Literature of Every Kind
Children’s literature is a perfect way to:
- Introduce difficult topics
- Emphasize desirable qualities or skills
- Normalize difficult life experiences
- Promote parent-child connection through interaction and engagement
- Enhance cognitive and language development
- Facilitate emotional expression
A Few Good Picture Books Recommended by Joyful Journeys Counseling
There is no lack for quality books to help your child in whatever season they may currently be facing. Whether you’re going through a major transition like moving schools or community or facing a loss of any kind, books are a great way to provide support.
A Holistic Approach to Child Well-Being
The combination of children’s literature, supportive caregiving, and professional counseling creates a holistic approach to fostering resilience in children. Each component plays a unique and complementary role. Books offer stories that resonate and inspire; caregivers provide connection and interpretation; and counselors offer the tools and structure for deeper emotional processing.
This integrated model is particularly important during prolonged or intense periods of stress, such as during a family illness, economic hardship, or transitions such as divorce or relocation. In these scenarios, children benefit most when the adults in their lives work together to create emotionally rich, responsive environments that prioritize mental health.
Where To Find Quality Books For All Ages
Not sure where to start?! Check out one of my personal favorite’s, Read Aloud Revival for specific book recommendation lists. Other options include electronic-free advocate and mom-preneur’s, What We Do All Day list, or the Institute for Excellence in Writing well-curated list.
Books as Tools
In the face of adversity, children need more than reassurances—they need tools for understanding, expressing, and managing their emotions. Children’s books, when used intentionally, can provide these tools in an engaging and age-appropriate format. Coupled with regular family reading time and the support of counseling, literature becomes a powerful ally in nurturing social-emotional health.
Counselor Support for Family Connection
In essence, reading together is more than an educational activity—it is an act of care. It is a way for families to come together, for children to feel understood, and for healing to begin through the gentle unfolding of a story. As caregivers and counselors harness the potential of books, they empower children not only to cope but to thrive, even during life’s most difficult chapters.
Printable Book Suggestion from Joyful Journeys Counseling
Want a copy of JJC’s favorite kid lit? Drop your email below. We’ll send you our infographic.
Are you looking for a family, child, or teen counselor? Joyful Journeys Counseling experts can support coping skills, communication tools, and family connection. Schedule your consultation today to see how we can support your child learn to manage stressful seasons.
About the Author
Jennifer is the founder of Joyful Journeys Counseling, an educator, speaker, and #1 international bestselling author. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in trauma-informed care. Her services include parent education and child and teen anxiety treatment. She offers clients a curated space to navigate balance, perspective, and joy in their journeys. Featured in ScaryMommy, Austin Fit, Care.com, and Christian Counselors of Texas, she says she’s been a writer “for forever.” Jennifer relishes neighborhood walks, family read-alouds, and movie nights at home complete with junk food and treats from her infamous “rubber band store.” IYKYK
