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Discussing mental health with children can be tough, especially when the challenges involve a parent. Kids often pick up on emotional shifts in their home environment, but without proper context, they may feel confused, scared, or even think they’re to blame. Picture books can be a wonderful way to introduce the topic of parental mental health in a way that’s accessible and comforting for young minds. Here are five kid-friendly picture books that can help you start that important conversation.
1. “The Red Tree” by Shaun Tan
“The Red Tree“ is a beautifully illustrated book that gently explores themes of sadness and depression, making it an excellent resource for discussing parental mental health with children. The story follows a young girl as she navigates through dark and confusing emotions. Each page captures feelings of isolation and hopelessness but ends with a message of hope symbolized by a small red tree that eventually blossoms.
Though the book doesn’t explicitly mention parental mental health, it can help children understand that emotions—whether their own or a parent’s—can be difficult, but there is always hope and love at the end of the struggle.
This book offers a powerful way to open up conversations about emotional well-being and mental health in the family.
2. “The Color Thief: A Family’s Story of Depression” by Andrew Fusek Peters and Polly Peters
“The Color Thief” is a poignant and visually captivating book that describes a father’s battle with depression. The story is told from the perspective of a young boy who notices that his father’s world has lost its color—an allegory for depression. Through beautiful illustrations, this book helps explain the concept of mental illness in a way that is both comforting and insightful for children. It opens up a safe space for discussion and lets kids know that just like colors return to a painting, healing, and hope can return to their parent’s life.
3. “When My Worries Get Too Big!” by Kari Dunn Buron
Although “When My Worries Get Too Big!” focuses primarily on helping children deal with anxiety, it can be a useful tool for explaining how mental health can affect the whole family. This interactive book teaches children how to manage their emotions when they feel overwhelmed, offering practical strategies that parents and children can use together. If a child sees their parent struggling with anxiety or stress, this book can help normalize those feelings and provide coping techniques that both children and adults can share.
4. “A Blue Kind of Day” by Rachel Tomlinson
“A Blue Kind of Day” centers around a young boy named Coen who experiences a “blue day,” representing sadness and depression. While the story focuses on Coen’s feelings, it parallels the experience of a parent going through a similar struggle. The book teaches children that everyone, including their parents, can have sad days. The book’s emphasis on empathy and support from family members makes it a comforting read for kids who may not understand why their parent is feeling low, reinforcing the idea that support and love can make a difference.
5. “The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst
“The Invisible String“ is not specifically about mental health, but it’s an excellent resource for explaining how love connects family members, even when they’re not feeling their best. The story revolves around the concept that an invisible string ties people together through love, no matter the circumstances. This can help children understand that even if their parents are emotionally distant or struggling, they are still deeply loved and connected.
These picture books offer gentle ways to discuss parental mental health challenges, creating space for understanding and emotional support. Addressing these complex issues through simple stories and vibrant illustrations helps kids navigate confusing emotions and learn that it’s okay to talk about what they feel.