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Growth Mindset

You can learn anything through dedication and hard work

I Can Do Hard Things

Growth Mindset, Affirmations

What kids tell themselves matters! It becomes their inner voice. It can help them connect with their power within. Help your child tap into their inner strength and resilience when challenges arise. I Can Do Hard Things introduces children to the practice of using mindful affirmations for support and encouragement when they need it. It reflects the beautiful diversity in our world. I Can Do Hard Things is a perfect addition to your home or school social emotional library.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 5543 votes, reviews

Gabi Garcia

The Pigeon Needs a Bath!

Growth Mindset, NY Times Best Sellers

The Pigeon really needs a bath! Except, the Pigeon's not so sure about that. Besides, he took a bath last month! Maybe. It's going to take some serious convincing to try and get the Pigeon to take the plunge.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 5488 votes, reviews

Mo Willems

The Dot

Art, Growth Mindset

Her teacher smiled. "Just make a mark and see where it takes you." Art class is over, but Vashti is sitting glued to her chair in front of a blank piece of paper. The words of her teacher are a gentle invitation to express herself. But Vashti can't draw - she's no artist. To prove her point, Vashti jabs at a blank sheet of paper to make an unremarkable and angry mark. "There!" she says. That one little dot marks the beginning of Vashti's journey of surprise and self-discovery. That special moment is the core of Peter H. Reynolds's delicate fable about the creative spirit in all of us.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 4849 votes, reviews

Peter H. Reynolds

Beautiful Oops!

Perseverance, NY Times Best Sellers

Beautiful Oops! from Workman Publishing says "Hooray for mistakes!" This interactive book demonstrates how every mistake is an opportunity to make something beautiful. Unique in every respect, this book is full of pop-ups, lift-the-flaps, tears, holes, overlays, bends, smudges, and more, each demonstrating how blunders can become wonders. Celebrate all life's Beautiful Oops! and teach kids that it's perfectly fine, and sometimes fortuitous, to make a mistake. Hardcover, 28 pages.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 4066 votes, reviews

Barney Saltzberg

The Little Engine That Could

Classics, Growth Mindset, Perseverance

The story of a train filled with toys and gifts for little boys and girls that breaks down before reaching the children. After asking several passing trains for help over the hill, a little blue train agrees to help the stranded toys. Even though she is small, the blue train tries her best to bring the toys to the children on the other side of the hill.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 3739 votes, reviews

Watty Piper

The Most Magnificent Thing

Strong Female Leads, Engineering, Perseverance

Award-winning author and illustrator Ashley Spires has created a charming picture book about an unnamed girl and her very best friend, who happens to be a dog. The girl has a wonderful idea. "She is going to make the most MAGNIFICENT thing! She knows just how it will look. She knows just how it will work. All she has to do is make it, and she makes things all the time. Easy-peasy!" But making her magnificent thing is anything but easy, and the girl tries and fails, repeatedly. Eventually, the girl gets really, really mad. She is so mad, in fact, that she quits. But after her dog convinces her to take a walk, she comes back to her project with renewed enthusiasm and manages to get it just right. For the early grades' exploration of character education, this funny book offers a perfect example of the rewards of perseverance and creativity. The girl's frustration and anger are vividly depicted in the detailed art, and the story offers good options for dealing honestly with these feelings, while at the same time reassuring children that it's okay to make mistakes.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 3605 votes, reviews

Ashley Spires

Jabari Jumps

Diverse Leads, Bravery, Growth Mindset

Working up the courage to take a big, important leap is hard, but Jabari is almost absolutely ready to make a giant splash. Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board. He’s finished his swimming lessons and passed his swim test, and he’s a great jumper, so he’s not scared at all. “Looks easy,” says Jabari, watching the other kids take their turns. But when his dad squeezes his hand, Jabari squeezes back. He needs to figure out what kind of special jump to do anyway, and he should probably do some stretches before climbing up onto the diving board. In a sweetly appealing tale of overcoming your fears, newcomer Gaia Cornwall captures a moment between a patient and encouraging father and a determined little boy you can’t help but root for.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 3575 votes, reviews

Gaia Cornwall

How To Catch A Star

Perseverance, Thinking Big

From the illustrator of the #1 smash hit The Day the Crayons Quit comes a story about wishing, persevering, and reaching for the stars. Once there was a boy, and that boy loved stars very much. So much so that he decided to catch one of his very own. But how? Waiting for them to grow tired from being up in the sky all night doesn't work. Climbing to the top of the tallest tree? No, not tall enough. The boy has a rocket ship . . . but it is made of paper and doesn't fly well at all. Finally, just when the boy is ready to give up, he learns that sometimes things aren't where, or what, we expect them to be. Oliver Jeffers offers a simple, childlike tale of reaching for the stars, and emerging with a friend.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 3351 votes, reviews

Oliver Jeffers

The Smart Cookie

NY Times Best Sellers, Growth Mindset, Bravery

Be a smart cookie—and don’t miss the fifth picture book in the #1 New York Times bestselling Food Group series from creators Jory John and Pete Oswald! This cookie has never felt like a smart cookie no matter how hard she tries, especially in comparison to all the clever cupcakes and brilliant rolls in the bakery. Will a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of confidence be enough to help her learn that perfect scores and having all the answers aren’t the only ingredients for intelligence? Jory John and Pete Oswald serve up another heaping plate of laughs and lessons with this empowering, witty, and charming addition to their #1 New York Times bestselling series!
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 2892 votes, reviews

Jory John

Elephants Cannot Dance!

Friendship, Growth Mindset

Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In Elephants Cannot Dance! Piggie tries to teach Gerald some new moves. But will Gerald teach Piggie something even more important?
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 2233 votes, reviews

Mo Willems

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The Magical Yet

Growth Mindset

A rollicking, rhyming, and inspirational picture book for fans of Oh, the Places You'll Go! andevery child who is frustrated by what they can't do...YET! Each of us, from the day we're born, is accompanied by a special companion—the Yet. Can't tie your shoes? Yet! Can't ride a bike? Yet! Can't play the bassoon? Don't worry, Yet is there to help you out. The Magical Yet is the perfect tool for parents and educators to turn a negative into a positive when helping children cope with the inevitable difficult learning moments we all face. Whether a child or an adult, this encouraging and uplifting book reminds us that we all have things we haven't learned...yet!
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 2040 votes, reviews

Angela DiTerlizzi

I Can't Do That, YET

Growth Mindset

She’s too shy to try. Can a glimpse into the future give her the courage she craves? Enna isn’t a queen of confidence. Struggling to believe in herself, the young girl is certain she doesn’t have what it takes to read during bedtime. But when she finally falls asleep, she’s greeted by a wonderful woman who’s incredibly familiar… As the journey across her dreamscape shows her potential versions of herself, Enna is amazed at everything she’s learned how to do. But she knows all that growth won’t come free – it will take time, knowledge, and dedication. Can Enna learn to tackle challenges with a smile? In this indispensable tool for battling gender stereotypes and other hardships, author Esther Pia Cordova reveals mentalities that can hold kids of all kinds back. And by dismantling unhealthy thought processes, she encourages a bold new approach to living life to the fullest. I Can’t Do That, YET is the inspiring first story in the Growth Mindset children’s picture book series. If you or your child like motivational fun, reworking negative patterns, and gorgeous visual learning, then you’ll love Esther Pia Cordova’s step forward. Buy I Can’t Do That, YET to stand taller today!
average rating is 4.5 out of 5, based on 1706 votes, reviews

Esther Pia Cordova

The Book of Mistakes

Art, Growth Mindset, Graduation

Zoom meets Beautiful Oops! in this memorable picture book debut about the creative process, and the way in which "mistakes" can blossom into inspiration One eye was bigger than the other. That was a mistake. The weird frog-cat-cow thing? It made an excellent bush. And the inky smudges… they look as if they were always meant to be leaves floating gently across the sky. As one artist incorporates accidental splotches, spots, and misshapen things into her art, she transforms her piece in quirky and unexpected ways, taking readers on a journey through her process. Told in minimal, playful text, this story shows readers that even the biggest “mistakes” can be the source of the brightest ideas—and that, at the end of the day, we are all works in progress, too. Fans of Peter Reynolds’s Ish and Patrick McDonnell’s A Perfectly Messed-Up Story will love the funny, poignant, completely unique storytelling of The Book of Mistakes. And, like Oh, The Places You’ll Go!, it makes the perfect graduation gift, encouraging readers to have a positive outlook as they learn to face life’s obstacles.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 842 votes, reviews

Corinna Luyken

Mistakes Are How I Learn

Perseverance, Growth Mindset, Diverse Leads

Join author Kiara Wilson in a new series called “Amazing Affirmations.” ”Mistakes Are How I Learn” is a rhyming story that involves SEL, social emotional learning. This story will help your child know that he/she is not alone when facing defeat. Tamara shares what she does when confronted with challenges. Developed to engage children, Wilson’s stories will empower children with the affirmations to overcome obstacles. With Tamara in examples children can identify with, your child will learn to develop resilience. Amazing Affirmations is the best new series Mistakes are how I learn. I will get there soon. I’ll keep dreaming big. Even if it’s flying to the moon.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 731 votes, reviews

Kiara Wilson

I Choose to Try Again

Perseverance

In this rhyming story, Kiara learns how to keep going even when things get too hard. Through colorful illustrations and rhythmic rhymes, Kiara reflects on her mistakes and realizes that mistakes help her grow. Instead of avoiding them, she learns from them so she can improve. Do you want your child to learn about perseverance and diligence? Your child will learn how easy it is to get back up after failing. "I Choose to Try Again" is a story with social emotional learning (SEL) in mind. It has been praised by teachers and therapists worldwide. This story told from Kiara's point of view will help open your child's mind to what it feels like to fail, and then try again. Kiara will teach your child how to be mentally strong. With Kiara in real life examples, your child will learn to develop their understanding of their own emotions. Throughout the story, Kiara will show you what perseverance looks like. Teacher and Therapist Toolbox: I Choose is an empowering series curated to empower young children to become aware of big emotions. A new book series developed in tandem with teachers and therapists to help children cope with a range of emotions and teach them that they indeed hold the power to choose their actions and reactions. Try not to say 'never.'. That brainwashes you to fail. It means that you won't have the chance To raise the victory sail. "I Choose to Try Again" was developed alongside counselors and parents to be used as a resource in a social emotional curriculum.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 728 votes, reviews

Elizabeth Estrada

Fauja Singh Keeps Going

Growth Mindset, Indian Culture, Sports, True Story

The true story of Fauja Singh, who broke world records to become the first one hundred-year-old to run a marathon, shares valuable lessons on the source of his grit, determination to overcome obstacles, and commitment to positive representation of the Sikh community. Every step forward is a victory. Fauja Singh was born determined. He was also born with legs that wouldn't allow him to play cricket with his friends or carry him to school miles from his village in Punjab. But that didn't stop him. Working on his family's farm, Fauja grew stronger to meet his own full potential. He never stopped striving. At the age of 81, after a lifetime of making his body, mind, and heart stronger, Fauja decided to run his first marathon. He went on to break records all around the world and became the first person over 100 to complete the grueling long-distance race. With exuberant text by Simran Jeet Singh and exhilarating illustrations by Baljinder Kaur, the true story of Fauja Singh reminds us that it's both where we start and how we finish that make our journeys unforgettable.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 546 votes, reviews

Simran Jeet Singh

Miss Lina's Ballerinas

Counting, Growth Mindset

In four rows of two, Miss Lina's eight ballerinas--Christina, Edwina, Sabrina, Justina, Katrina, Bettina, Marina, and Nina--dance to the park, at the zoo, and even while doing their schoolwork. They are one perfect act, but when Miss Lina introduces Regina, a new girl, the group of nine's steps become a mess.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 383 votes, reviews

Grace Maccarone

I Can Do It Too!

African American Leads, Independence

This heartwarming story reminds us how satisfying it is to grow up surrounded by love. I Can Do It Too! affirms a little girl's growing independence as she, too, can begin to do all the things she sees her parents, relatives and neighbors do: pouring juice at breakfast, strumming a guitar, and even riding a bike! The simple cadence of text and direct-to-the-heart art result in a book as warm and generous as its message, providing reading pleasure for toddlers, older siblings, and the grown-ups who love them.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 335 votes, reviews

Karen Baicker

Something, Someday

Compassion, Growth Mindset, Diverse Leads, NY Times Best Seller

The stunning new picture book by presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator Christian Robinson You’re told that This won’t work, But how will you know If you never try? Presidential inaugural poet and #1 New York Times bestselling author Amanda Gorman and Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Honor winner Christian Robinson have created a timeless message of hope. Sometimes the world feels broken. And problems seem too big to fix. But somehow, we all have the power to make a difference. With a little faith, and maybe the help of a friend, together we can find beauty and create change. With intimate and inspiring text and powerfully stunning illustrations, Something, Someday reveals how even the smallest gesture can have a lasting impact.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 228 votes, reviews

Amanda Gorman

The Power of Yet

Growth Mindset

Award-winning author-illustrator Maryann Cocca-Leffler presents an inspiring picture book about overcoming challenges and frustrations with the Power of Yet. “I can’t do it!” “Can’t do it YET.” This charming picture book tells the story of one small piglet who uses the Power of Yet to conquer frustration. While it may not be possible to perfectly flip pancakes or play the violin yet, with practice and patience and courage and grit, anything is possible!
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 85 votes, reviews

Maryann Cocca-Leffler

The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes

Growth Mindset

A powerful growth mindset book that builds resilience in children and prepares them for life's adversities. Kids will feel strong, confident, and ready to pursue their biggest dreams! Includes effective mindful, positive affirmations to build self-esteem and self-confidence: "I can do this. I am strong. I am unstoppable." Tangled hair. Missing Teeth. Millie's track and field race turns into a HUGE mess as she makes mistakes after mistakes. This young girl dreams of being a top athlete. But whatever she does, she messes up. Millie squeezes too much toothpaste, uses too much glue, spills milk all over and spells 'banana' wrong. When she repeatedly makes errors in the race, she feels frustrated and discouraged. She even ends up in a tree! Will she quit? Will she ever become an amazing athlete she aspires to be? See how Millie finally succeeds through learning, creative problem solving, mental toughness and determination! This powerful book builds self-esteem and self-confidence in kids, allowing them to feel determined about their goals.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 71 votes, reviews

Brenda Li

Growth Mindset

meaningful additions

Children learn and hear more than we think.  Books provide context for new and potentially confusing topics, and give caregivers a way to approach complex topics.

Balanced Rocks
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