Every once in a while, the phrase "I'm glad social media wasn't around when I was in school!" floats around in my friend group. I'm currently 36 and got into networks like MySpace and Facebook at the tail end of college.
Even then, I had a pretty good idea of how to present myself online, based on the fact that I was obsessed with AOL as a kid. Back then, the big threat was giving out your information to strangers. These days, kids are more worried about being bullied online by people they actually know. With social media literally being in everyone's pocket, it's much harder these days for kids to feel safe from negativity, even at home .
Right now my daughter is 3. And I'm already starting to think about the future. I want her to learn about bullies in all forms at an early age, just so she knows how unfortunately common they can be. I also want her to feel prepared if she's ever verbally attacked. And of course, I want her to know the importance of kindness. I'd never want her to bully other children.
That's why books are an incredible resource — and kids are never too young to learn from them. They're also good to have around if you ever need a refresher. Books can easily show your child the cause and effect of bullying . And the more they know about how to stop bullying, the more of an asset they'll be to their school and the overall community.
Looking for books about bullying? Here are 10 must-have titles.
'Dragon and the Bully'
Dragon and the Bully by author Steve Herman focuses on a boy named Drew and his dragon, Diggory Doo. Diggory needs to go to school to learn more about proper behavior. He also learns an intriguing technique on how to handle a bully in school. As Amazon reviewer Furmany writes, "Loved seeing the dragon face the challenge of a bully with grace, kindness, love, and care. Such a great story for children to read with their teachers, counselors, or care givers!"
'The No More Bullying Book for Kids: Become Strong, Happy, and Bully-Proof'
Vanessa Green Allen has a master's degree in education, so she has experience working with kids. This book will help kids build the confidence they need to deal with bullies. But not just their own bullies — this book encourages children to react when they see their friends being bullied and gives great suggestions and strategies on how to deal.
Shop Now: The No More Bullying Book for Kids (Amazon, $9.69)
'The Juice Box Bully: Empowering Kids To Stand Up for Others'
Written by Bob Sornson and Maria Dismondy, The Juice Box Bully is appropriate for children up to fifth grade. It follows the adventures of Pete and Ralph and talks about the best way to engage with someone who is openly bullying others. If more kids stood up to bullies, their power wouldn't be quite as strong.
'Stop Picking on Me (A First Look at Bullying)'
This book may be the perfect choice for preschoolers or anyone who suddenly stops being confident with themselves after meeting a new group of individuals. It reiterates the fact that nobody deserves to be bullied and includes discussion questions at the end so that you can start an open conversation with your child.
Shop Now: Stop Picking on Me (A First Look at Bullying) (Amazon, $7.99)
'Kindness Starts With You — At School'
This book by Jacquelyn Stagg focuses on the character of Maddy and her quest to always be kind. That means saying "please" and "thank you" and spreading kindness to everyone she interacts with during the day. It's a great way to reiterate the lesson.
'Strictly No Elephants'
This book is bound to turn into a family favorite. A young boy realizes how it doesn't feel good to be excluded when he realizes his elephant isn't welcome at a meeting for pets. No matter what, he sticks by his friend and creates his own club, where everyone is welcome.
'The Power To Be Me'
The Power To Be Me was just released this April. It spreads the message of self-acceptance and reiterates the importance of both kindness and respect toward others. As Amazon reviewer Amber Dorsey writes, "This book was a great read for my 6-year-old boy. Although it was past his bedtime, he was fully engaged and was able to think about times where he felt shy or didn't fit in. I'm sure this book will plant a seed in the lives of those who pick it up and read it."
'Monty the Manatee'
Monty the Manatee was first published in England back in 2018 and instantly became a favorite with kids. The book covers kindness and bullying, as Monty prepares for his first day at sea school. The illustrations are beautiful, turning this into your child's future favorite bedtime story.
'Stand Up for Yourself and Your Friends: Dealing With Bullies and Bossiness and Finding a Better Way'
Aside from having the most popular historical dolls around, the American Girl company has also been wonderful with putting out helpful, educational, and thorough books for young girls as they grow up. Stand Up for Yourself and Your Friends: Dealing With Bullies and Bossiness and Finding a Better Way is one of their many great titles. This book is great for kids between the ages of 8 and 11. It features a quiz as well as real-life stories from girls who've survived bullying.
Shop Now: Stand Up for Yourself and Your Friends (Amazon, $7.89)
'We Are All Beautifully Different: An Anti-Bullying Book for Young Children'
This 40-page book is perfect for students who are just starting school. It's a reminder that all of us are different in every way. "Therapists and loving parents can only 'treat' the painful consequences of bullying," writes Amazon reviewer Mia M. "This book encourages a 'cure' for the source of pain. It is a call to action for parents to build, within their child's character, a sense of tolerance, patience, and kindness towards those who do not easily fit in."
Shop Now: We Are All Beautifully Different (Amazon, $14.95)
Psst: If you choose to purchase an item on this list, LittleThings may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
