Books That Help Explain Germs and Sickness to Kids

As we live through this strange and frightening time in history, there’s no doubt that our children are confused and worried, or can’t quite understand what a virus is or why we are taking the precautions that we are. I, for one, know that my toddler is raring to get outside and can’t understand the lack of park trips, play dates and library visits as of late. While we’re all busy doing as much home-schooling and crafting as we can with our kids, one of the best activities we can do is read to them. Books have a way of explaining things and quelling fears that no other medium does. I’ve rounded up a list of books that can help explain to children what germs are and why they would want to avoid getting sick and what being sick is, as well as how to cope with anxiety and worries in a healthy way.

Books About Germs and Hand Washing:

• Cutie Sue Fights the Germs – for ages 5-6 years
• Do Not Lick This Book – for ages 4-8 years, written by a microbiologist
• Germs are Not for Sharing – for toddlers, emphasizes to cover up a sneeze or cough, blow kisses when you’re sick, and most of all, to wash your hands! 
• Germs Make me Sick – for kids age 4-8 years, level 2 reader
• What Are Germs? – Lift-the-flap book for babies and toddlers
• Wash Your Hands – for age 4-6 years
• Magic School Bus: The World of Germs – STEM kit for ages 5-12 years
• Virus vs. Bacteria – ideal for sixth graders
• Wash, Wash, Wash – board book for 1-3 years

Books About Being Sick:

• Bear Feels Sick – This does a good job of showing how germs can spread if you are around your friends while sick.
• The Berenstain Bears were always my favorite series growing up, and the books are still so beloved today. Hospital Friends is great for any child that might have to go to hospital, and Sick Days is about staying home when you’re sick.
• Llama Llama Home with Mama – A sweet story for the little ones 2-5 years.
• Taking Care of Mom – Kids age 2-5 will hopefully learn how to help Mom if she falls ill from this cute book.
• Just a Little Sick – Little Critter learns how much it stinks staying in.

Books About Anxiety & Worry:

• A Little Spot of Anxiety – This book helps children identify what emotions they are feeling and how to properly manage them.
• When I am Worried – This is a comforting story for kids when their world becomes unsettled.
• Breathe Like a Bear – A beautifully illustrated collection of mindfulness exercises designed to teach kids techniques for managing their bodies, breath, and emotions.
• CBT Workbook for Kids – 40+ fun exercises and activities to help kids overcome anxiety and face their fears at home, school, and out in the world.
• Don’t Feed the WorryBug – A great story to start the conversation on worry and anxiety with your kids.
• Coping Skills for Kids – 75 fun and engaging activities that teach children to calm down, balance their energy and emotions, and process challenging feelings.

For more ideas on activities to do with your kids while you’re all home, check out my article How to Entertain Your Kids in Self Quarantine. For more tips on managing your own anxiety during this stressful time, click to my article about products to help with anxiety.

What books have you been reading with your kids while at home? Have your kids been asking questions about our current world situation? If so, how have you been explaining this crisis to them? Comment and let us know!

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