Every decision we make comes with consequences, whether positive or negative. Helping children understand the connection between their choices and the outcomes that follow is a vital part of their growth and development. Learning this skill early builds a foundation for responsibility, critical thinking, and empathy, as children begin to see how their actions affect themselves and those around them.
Books about choices and consequences offer an engaging way to teach these important lessons. Through relatable characters and realistic scenarios, children can explore the impact of decisions in a safe, nonjudgmental way. These stories provide opportunities to discuss the “why” behind choices, encouraging kids to think ahead, consider others, and learn from mistakes.
Perfect for parents, teachers, and counselors, this collection of books equips children with the tools to make thoughtful decisions and face the outcomes with accountability. Whether the focus is on making good choices, reflecting on poor ones, or navigating challenges, these stories foster growth and understanding in a fun and approachable way. Explore these titles to spark meaningful conversations about choices and their ripple effects!
For some of the books on this website, I have created interactive read-alouds to enrich their use in the classroom. These interactive read-alouds include discussion questions, activities, and prompts that engage students and deepen their understanding of the book’s themes. More interactive read-alouds are on the way. If there are specific books for which you would like to see a read-aloud created, please contact me using the form at the bottom of the page.
To learn more about supporting social-emotional learning and using interactive read-alouds in the classroom, check out these posts:
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Summary: In Betty Bunny Wants Everything, Betty learns a tough but humorous lesson about the importance of limits and making choices. While on a trip to the toy store, Betty decides she wants it all, filling her cart with toys. However, her family sets boundaries, explaining she can only choose one toy. When Betty’s frustration leads to a meltdown, her parents use the situation to teach her about money, spending limits, and decision-making. With Betty’s unique perspective and negotiating skills, this story is both entertaining and insightful.
Description: This playful picture book combines humor and relatable family dynamics to tackle the topic of choices and consequences in a way that resonates with children. Betty’s larger-than-life personality and determination make her a relatable and endearing character for kids. Parents and teachers will appreciate how the story subtly introduces important lessons about budgeting, patience, and understanding limits, while also offering opportunities to discuss tantrums and emotions.
Betty Bunny Wants Everything is ideal for children ages 4-8, with its bright illustrations and witty dialogue keeping young readers engaged. The story’s charm lies in its balance of humor and teaching moments, making it a great read for both home and classroom settings.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers love the Betty Bunny series for its humor and relatable characters. Many parents highlight how the story provides a fun and practical way to discuss difficult topics like handling disappointment and managing wants versus needs. Teachers appreciate its ability to spark meaningful classroom discussions about making choices. While Betty’s spirited antics may require some clarification for younger readers, older children connect well with the story’s lessons and humor.
Summary: My Magical Choices is a vibrant, empowering book that teaches children the power of positive decision-making. Through fun rhymes and captivating illustrations, kids learn how their choices—such as being kind, calm, or responsible—can shape their happiness and success. The book introduces children to key social-emotional concepts, showing how small, thoughtful actions can lead to big, positive outcomes in their relationships and daily lives.
Description: This engaging teaching book is perfect for introducing children to the idea that they are in control of their own behaviors and emotions. Each page highlights a positive trait—such as forgiveness, generosity, or calmness—and encourages children to take ownership of their choices. The rhymes make the lessons memorable, while the colorful illustrations draw in young readers.
Parents and educators praise My Magical Choices for its focus on emotional intelligence and fostering a growth mindset. The book is versatile enough to use in homes, classrooms, and therapy settings, making it an excellent tool for encouraging reflection, self-regulation, and healthy habits.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers love how My Magical Choices makes big concepts accessible to children as young as 3, while still resonating with older kids. Many note how the book opens up conversations about emotions, responsibility, and the impact of actions on others. It’s especially appreciated for its uplifting tone and its ability to encourage mindfulness and empathy.
Whether used as a bedtime story or a classroom resource, this book inspires kids to take charge of their choices in a fun, relatable way. It’s a wonderful addition to any library that focuses on fostering kindness, emotional growth, and positive decision-making in children.
Summary: Teach Your Dragon to Understand Consequences is a fun, engaging story that helps children recognize the impact of their actions. Diggory Doo, a mischievous dragon, often dismisses his behavior as minor or unnoticed. However, with the help of his owner, he learns that even small actions can lead to significant consequences—both good and bad. Through relatable scenarios and playful illustrations, this book empowers kids to make thoughtful decisions and understand how their choices affect themselves and others.
Description: This book is a valuable tool for parents, teachers, and counselors looking to teach children about accountability and responsibility. Using simple, rhyming text and vibrant illustrations, Teach Your Dragon to Understand Consequences introduces the idea that every action has a result, encouraging children to pause and consider the outcomes of their decisions.
This book makes an abstract concept like consequences tangible and relatable. It is especially effective for sparking conversations with kids who may struggle with impulsivity or decision-making. Whether used in a classroom or at home, the story provides a foundation for meaningful discussions about choices and the importance of thinking ahead.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers frequently praise the book for its engaging approach to a challenging topic. Parents and educators report that children enjoy the playful story while absorbing its valuable lesson. The relatable character of Diggory Doo resonates with kids, especially those working on social-emotional skills.
While some reviewers note the content may require adult guidance to fully connect the lessons to real-life situations, others appreciate the book’s ability to foster open discussions. The illustrations and rhymes keep young readers engaged, making it a practical and entertaining resource for teaching kids about the impact of their actions.
Summary: We Can Get Along is a heartwarming guide that helps children learn to resolve conflicts, show kindness, and respect differences in everyday situations. Through simple language and relatable examples, the book introduces essential skills for building positive relationships and fostering understanding. Its charming illustrations and straightforward messages make complex ideas like tolerance and peacemaking accessible to young readers.
Description: This book emphasizes the importance of kindness, respect, and cooperation, offering practical examples to help children handle social challenges. Whether resolving disagreements, embracing differences, or practicing empathy, the lessons are clear and actionable. The inclusion of activities and discussion questions at the end allows parents, teachers, and caregivers to explore these ideas further with children, encouraging reflection and meaningful conversations.
We Can Get Along is a valuable tool for nurturing social-emotional growth, empowering children to develop the skills needed for harmonious interactions at home, in school, and in their communities. Its approachable tone and engaging illustrations make it both enjoyable and educational, leaving a lasting impression on readers.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers praise the book for its practical advice and the engaging way it teaches conflict resolution and kindness. The discussion prompts and activities are especially appreciated, providing opportunities for adults to extend the learning experience beyond the story. The book’s straightforward approach and relatable examples make it a favorite for those seeking to instill positive social behaviors.
Though it may not be as widely recognized as other titles, We Can Get Along is a hidden gem that delivers a timeless message about kindness and cooperation, making it a worthwhile addition to any home or classroom library.
Summary: In What If Everybody Did That?, Ellen Javernick takes readers through a series of everyday situations where small, seemingly harmless actions—like littering or interrupting storytime—are magnified by the rhetorical question, “What if everybody did that?” The book cleverly demonstrates how individual choices contribute to larger consequences, both good and bad, encouraging readers to reflect on their actions’ impact on the world around them.
Description: This engaging story uses relatable scenarios and humorous mixed-media illustrations to explore the concept of choices and their ripple effects. The repeated refrain invites children to consider the broader implications of their actions, sparking thoughtful discussions about personal responsibility and social behavior. While the book primarily highlights the consequences of negative actions, the cheerful ending introduces a positive note, showing the impact of collective kindness and good choices.
The thought-provoking structure and lively visuals make What If Everybody Did That? an excellent tool for teaching children about accountability, good citizenship, and empathy. Its open-ended format also allows adults to expand on the examples provided, using them as conversation starters to explore both the negative and positive consequences of “what if everybody did that.”
Reviews and Considerations: Readers frequently highlight the book’s ability to engage children in meaningful discussions about behavior and consequences. The repetition of the titular phrase is seen as a strength, reinforcing the core message, though some feel the focus on negative examples could be balanced with more positives. Parents and educators appreciate the opportunity to tailor the discussion, using the book as a springboard for broader lessons about kindness and responsibility.
The humorous tone and vibrant illustrations captivate young readers, while the reflective questions encourage deeper thinking about how individual choices shape their communities. For classroom or home settings, What If Everybody Did That? provides a valuable opportunity to teach children about the power of their actions in a way that is both accessible and engaging.
Summary: In What If Everybody Said That?, Ellen Javernick explores the impact of words and how they shape interactions with others. Through various scenarios, readers follow a child learning that unkind or thoughtless words can lead to a less inclusive and caring world. The narrative poses the question, “What if everybody said that?” to help children reflect on their verbal choices and the broader consequences of those choices. The book concludes with a hopeful message about the power of kindness and thoughtful communication.
Description: This engaging picture book serves as a gentle yet impactful reminder of the importance of choosing words wisely. The humorous and detailed illustrations effectively portray both the hurtful effects of negative comments and the brighter outcomes of positive interactions. Each situation prompts children to consider the ripple effects of their words, encouraging empathy, kindness, and reflection.
While most of the book focuses on the consequences of unkind words, the final pages shift to highlight how thoughtful speech can create a better world, sparking discussions about the value of kindness and inclusion. What If Everybody Said That? is a versatile teaching tool, perfect for sparking meaningful conversations at home or in the classroom about the power of language.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers commend What If Everybody Said That? for sparking meaningful discussions about empathy and the importance of thoughtful communication. The book’s repetitive question, “What if everybody said that?” reinforces its central message, encouraging children to consider how their words affect others. However, some reviewers noted a consistent focus on negative behaviors and expressions throughout most of the book. For example, many illustrations depict disapproving or angry faces as a response to the child’s unkind words, which some found overwhelming for younger readers or inconsistent with the book’s ultimate theme of kindness.
Despite this critique, others appreciate the book’s realistic portrayal of how unkindness feels and its ability to open discussions about why certain words or actions hurt. Many readers highlight the final pages as an uplifting shift, showcasing the power of kindness and leaving a positive impression. Teachers, parents, and counselors find it a valuable tool for introducing the impact of words and encouraging children to be more mindful and empathetic.
Summary: This interactive, “Choose Your Own Adventure”-style book puts children in control of Danny’s day, teaching them how choices shape outcomes. As a superhero-in-training, Danny faces relatable, everyday situations—whether to share, take turns, or react impulsively. With nine different storylines, kids explore the power of decision-making, seeing firsthand how positive and negative choices affect Danny’s day. By navigating through Danny’s dilemmas, children learn about personal responsibility, empathy, and the consequences of their actions in an engaging and empowering format.
Description: What Should Danny Do? uniquely combines interactive storytelling with social-emotional learning. Its innovative format allows children to make decisions for Danny, see the consequences unfold, and reflect on how similar choices impact their own lives. The scenarios are simple yet meaningful, covering topics like managing frustration, resolving conflicts, and showing kindness. This format promotes critical thinking and gives kids a safe space to practice decision-making.
Parents and educators praise the book for being an excellent teaching tool, especially for discussing concepts like accountability and natural consequences. Its dynamic design keeps children engaged, as they eagerly explore various outcomes, while the bright illustrations further enhance the reading experience.
The book also sparks rich discussions, encouraging adults to guide children through the decision-making process and talk about real-life applications. Despite its focus on positive reinforcement, some readers note that the clear-cut “right” and “wrong” choices may oversimplify complex situations. Still, the overall message remains impactful: choices matter, and with each decision, we shape the course of our lives.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers of What Should Danny Do? consistently highlight its interactive approach and educational value. Children enjoy making choices for Danny, often revisiting the book to explore all nine storylines. This engagement fosters a strong understanding of how decisions lead to different outcomes. Parents and teachers appreciate how it supports critical life skills like impulse control, empathy, and problem-solving.
However, some reviewers feel the book’s binary “good vs. bad” choices oversimplify real-life dilemmas, potentially reducing its nuance for more introspective children. Others mention that younger readers might struggle with the navigation between pages, requiring adult guidance. Additionally, a minority critique the book’s focus on “behavioral control,” arguing that it doesn’t always account for children’s developmental needs, such as emotional regulation challenges.
Despite these critiques, the book remains a favorite for families and classrooms alike, opening the door to valuable discussions and empowering kids with “the power to choose.” Its interactive nature keeps young readers engaged, making it a standout addition to any bookshelf.
Summary: This interactive sequel to What Should Danny Do? brings Danny to school, where kids guide his decisions and shape the course of his day. With eight possible storylines, readers make choices for Danny as he encounters relatable school situations—like handling disagreements, sharing, or asking for help. The book engages young readers by showing how choices lead to different outcomes, teaching personal responsibility and social-emotional skills through immersive storytelling.
Description: In What Should Danny Do? School Day, children navigate the highs and lows of Danny’s day at school, deciding how he reacts to challenges. From persevering through tough tasks to handling peer interactions, the book covers a wide array of school-based scenarios. Its “Choose Your Own Adventure” style encourages children to think critically about their decisions and explore how different choices can lead to positive or negative outcomes.
The story’s format fosters meaningful conversations between adults and kids about decision-making, empathy, and resilience. Teachers and parents appreciate its practical lessons, while kids enjoy the vibrant illustrations and the opportunity to revisit the book for different endings. The relatable school settings and situations make it an effective tool for teaching social-emotional learning (SEL).
Some readers note that the extensive page-flipping required to navigate choices may be confusing for younger children. Additionally, while the scenarios effectively illustrate consequences, the book’s binary “right vs. wrong” framework might feel overly simplified for older or more introspective readers. Nevertheless, the engaging approach and valuable lessons make this book a staple in homes and classrooms.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers praise What Should Danny Do? School Day for its engaging and empowering approach to teaching decision-making and consequences. Children are captivated by the interactive format, often exploring multiple storylines to see how Danny’s choices impact his day. Parents and educators find the book to be an excellent conversation starter, particularly for discussing topics like kindness, perseverance, and accountability.
Some reviewers highlight the book’s utility for children who struggle with impulse control or decision-making, noting its ability to model behavior and natural consequences. However, a few readers feel the page navigation is cumbersome, especially for younger kids. Others mention that the scenarios could include more nuanced or less obvious choices to challenge readers further.
Despite these minor critiques, the book is widely celebrated as an effective and enjoyable tool for SEL, helping kids practice the “power to choose” in a relatable and fun way. Its popularity in classrooms and homes underscores its lasting value.
Summary: In What Should Darla Do?, young readers guide Darla, an astronaut-in-training, through her daily challenges, making choices that shape her outcomes. This engaging “Choose Your Own Story” format lets kids explore eight different endings, teaching them the “Power to Choose.” Darla’s relatable adventures—like sharing, managing frustration, and handling sibling dynamics—help children understand how their decisions can positively or negatively impact their day.
Description: Darla’s challenges—sharing, managing frustration, and sibling dynamics—mirror common experiences for kids, providing a fun yet meaningful way to learn about the “Power to Choose.” The vibrant illustrations and engaging format encourage kids to revisit the story repeatedly, exploring various outcomes.
Parents and educators praise the book for fostering discussions on empathy, accountability, and decision-making. While most scenarios are relatable, some reviewers note that Darla is occasionally held accountable for others’ actions, prompting nuanced conversations about personal responsibility. Despite this, the book’s interactive nature and SEL lessons make it a valuable teaching tool and an engaging read.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers love What Should Darla Do? for its empowering, interactive approach to teaching decision-making and natural consequences. Parents and teachers report that children are eager to see how different choices affect the outcomes, which fosters self-reflection and emotional growth. The vibrant artwork and Darla’s relatable challenges make the book especially engaging for young girls, although its lessons apply universally.
Some readers appreciate how the book portrays realistic sibling dynamics, but a few expressed concerns about Darla being overly responsible for situations beyond her control. Despite this, many note that these moments spark valuable discussions about empathy and navigating complex relationships. Overall, What Should Darla Do? is celebrated as a versatile, educational, and enjoyable read that empowers children to take ownership of their actions and choices.
For fans of Darla, there’s also the Super Girl Mindset Coloring and Sticker Book: What Should Darla Do? (The Power to Choose), an engaging companion that reinforces the book’s empowering themes with fun, creative activities.
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Anger
Anxiety / Worry
Apologizing
Autism
Bad Day
Be Yourself
Body Safety & Personal Boundaries
Bravery & Trying New Things
Choices & Consequences
Cleaning Up/ Doing Chores
Conflict Resolution
Compromise / Cooperating
Coping with Change
Creativity & Imagination
Deployment
Differences & Diversity
Dreams & Aspirations
Dyslexia
Empathy & Compassion
Feelings & Behavior
Follow Rules & Directions
Foster Care & Adoption
Friendship Skills
Gratitude
Grief & Loss
Growth Mindset
Healthy Habits
Helping Others
Honesty & Integrity
Including Others
Kindness & Generosity
Managing Physical Actions
Manners & Social Expectations
Mindfulness
Mistakes
Organization & Planning
Patience
Peer Influence
Perseverance
Personal Space & Boundaries
Perspective & Point of View
Physical/Medical Disabilities
Positive Attitude
Resilience
Responsibility
Sadness & Finding Hope
School Success
Sensory Processing
Separation Anxiety
Sharing
Speaking Politely
Tattling vs. Telling
Teasing & Bullying
Technology
Trauma Recovery
Understanding Feelings
Winning & Losing