Safe Place in Imagination

Infants and Toddlers – Feeling Safe and Secure

Goodnight Moon – Margaret Wise Brown
A timeless bedtime story that uses rhythm and gentle repetition to create comfort and predictability, helping young children associate reading with calm and safety.

Guess How Much I Love You – Sam McBratney
A warm, reassuring story of love and connection that helps children feel secure and valued, even when apart from caregivers.

The Kissing Hand – Audrey Penn
A heartwarming story that teaches children they can carry love and safety with them wherever they go—ideal for easing separation anxiety.

Owl Babies – Martin Waddell
Three baby owls wait for their mother to return, learning that she always comes back. A soothing story that reinforces trust and reassurance.

Llama Llama Red Pajama – Anna Dewdney
A rhythmic, relatable story that normalizes bedtime worries while showing how comfort and connection help calm strong emotions.

When I Feel Scared – Cornelia Maude Spelman
Part of the “Feelings” series, this book helps young children recognize fear and learn simple ways to find comfort and safety.

The Runaway Bunny – Margaret Wise Brown
A classic tale that gently communicates unconditional love and the idea that a caregiver’s safety and care are always near.

Younger Children – Imagination and Inner Safety

A Quiet Place – Douglas Wood
Encourages children to discover peaceful spaces both in the world around them and within their imagination.

The Invisible String – Patrice Karst
Teaches that love connects us all, no matter where we are, helping children feel emotionally secure and supported.

Moody Cow Meditates – Kerry Lee MacLean
A child-friendly introduction to mindfulness and calming visualization after big emotions or stressful moments.

My Magic Breath: Finding Calm Through Mindful Breathing – Nick Ortner and Alison Taylor
Interactive breathing prompts guide children to use their imagination and body awareness to manage stress.

The Rabbit Listened – Cori Doerrfeld
A gentle story about empathy and emotional healing, showing how calm presence helps children recover from tough experiences.

Older Children – Building Inner Calm and Resilience

What to Do When You Worry Too Much – Dawn Huebner, Ph.D.
A practical, research-based workbook that helps children recognize anxious thoughts and practice self-calming techniques.

Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness Exercises for Kids – Eline Snel
Introduces mindfulness and visualization in a clear, age-appropriate way that teaches children how to quiet the mind and body.

Wilma Jean the Worry Machine – Julia Cook
Uses humor and creativity to help children understand anxiety and develop effective coping skills.

The Magical Yet – Angela DiTerlizzi
An inspiring reminder that progress takes time and that calm, hopeful thinking builds confidence and resilience.

Mindful Me: Mindfulness and Meditation for Kids – Whitney Stewart
Explains mindfulness through guided exercises, teaching how imagination and awareness can create an inner sense of safety.