Children’s Books to Help CASAs
Addressing Foster Care Issues and Starting Dialogue
A Terrible Thing Happened– by Margaret Holmes
Very sweetly addresses overwhelming feelings and the ways children my adversely cope.
Maybe Days– by Jennifer Wilgocki and Marcia Wright
Provides basic information that children want and need, explains some of the adults and their roles in the foster care and whom to ask for help.
Once I was Very, Very Scared by Chandra Ippen
A sweet story of responding to fear and how supportive relationships can help.
My Many-Colored Days by Dr. Seuss
Good for the very young, (age 3-4) abstractly addresses many feelings and how they change.
You Weren’t with Me by Chandra Ippen
Addresses the pain of separation. Resource for the parent who is seeking reunification.
Finding the Right Spot by Janice Levy
Is about children’s resiliency, loyalty, hope and disappointments. This offers conversational hints for caregivers.
Kids Need to Be Safe by Julie Nelson
Written for children to help prepare for, understand, and accept foster care. Also includes resource for adults.
A Different Home by John and Kelly DeGarmo
Designed to help children age 4-10 to settle in and answer some questions they are likely to have. Also includes notes for adults.
Murphy’s Three Homes by Jan Gilman
Story explores a safe way for kids to explore and understand their feelings. It is a sweet story of resilience and positive self-esteem. Also includes a section for adults
Somebody Cares by Susan Straus
Explores the feelings and thoughts kids have when they have had to look out for themselves or be alone much of the time. Also includes notes for caregivers.
Families Change by Julie Nelson
Simply worded and realistically illustrated to show and tell why some kids get new foster or adoptive families. Includes resources for adults.