100 books like Mind in the Making

By Ellen Galinsky,

Here are 100 books that Mind in the Making fans have personally recommended if you like Mind in the Making. Shepherd is a community of 9,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Touchpoints-Birth to Three

By T. Berry Brazelton, Joshua D. Sparrow,

Book cover of Touchpoints-Birth to Three

Joni Levine Author Of 365 Toddler Activities That Inspire Creativity: Games, Projects, and Pastimes That Encourage a Child's Learning and Imagination

From the list on toddler development and behavior.

Who am I?

My passion has always been caring for and educating young children. I spent over 20 years in the classroom as a child care professional and much of that time was with toddlers. I discovered that the stereotype of the terrible twos was truly misguided. I chose books that will shed new light on why toddlers behave the way that they do. These books will show the reader what an important time this is in a child’s growth and learning. I believe that these books will help convince you that toddlers are not terrible; they are terrific!

Joni's book list on toddler development and behavior

Why did Joni love this book?

T. Berry Brazelton has been recognized as an expert on parenting and child development. I used to eagerly wait to read his newspaper column that offered concise advice on child care. In this book, Brazelton covers the milestones of typical development and he discusses common concerns of this age range. Although this book focuses on emotional and behavioral development, his background in pediatrics allows him to write about physical development as well. You will learn, in detail, what to expect of young children up to age three in this comprehensive book.

By T. Berry Brazelton, Joshua D. Sparrow,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Touchpoints-Birth to Three as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

All over the U.S. and in over twenty countries around the world, Touchpoints has become required reading for anxious parents of babies and small children. T. Berry Brazelton's great empathy for the universal concerns of parenthood, and honesty about the complex feelings it engenders, as well as his uncanny insight into the predictable leaps and regressions of early childhood, have comforted and supported families since its publication in 1992. In this completely revised edition Dr. Brazelton introduces new information on physical, emotional, and behavioural development. He also addresses the new stresses on families and fears of children, with a fresh…


The Power of Play

By David Elkind,

Book cover of The Power of Play: How Spontaneous, Imaginative Activities Lead to Happier, Healthier Children

Joni Levine Author Of 365 Toddler Activities That Inspire Creativity: Games, Projects, and Pastimes That Encourage a Child's Learning and Imagination

From the list on toddler development and behavior.

Who am I?

My passion has always been caring for and educating young children. I spent over 20 years in the classroom as a child care professional and much of that time was with toddlers. I discovered that the stereotype of the terrible twos was truly misguided. I chose books that will shed new light on why toddlers behave the way that they do. These books will show the reader what an important time this is in a child’s growth and learning. I believe that these books will help convince you that toddlers are not terrible; they are terrific!

Joni's book list on toddler development and behavior

Why did Joni love this book?

I had a hard time choosing between this book and Elkind’s bestseller, The Hurried Child. David Elkind has a special gift for understanding both the importance and magic of early childhood. Current research reinforces the critical importance of play in young children’s growth and development. The author recognizes that young children are currently being raised in environments that are stressing academic achievement and technological advances. He makes a strong case that play is not a luxury but rather a necessity for the healthy development of toddlers and all young children.

By David Elkind,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Power of Play as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Best-selling author and distinguished childcare expert David Elkind takes on the "over-scheduled" child syndrome, providing parents with an understanding of, and appreciation for the powerful role of "play" in healthy emotional and academic development. In modern childhood, free, unstructured play time is being replaced more and more by academics, lessons, competitive sports and passive entertainment. While parents may worry that their children will be at a disadvantage if they are not engaged in constant learning, child development expert David Elkind reassures us that imaginative play goes far to prepare children for academic and social success, perhaps further than the panoply…


From Neurons to Neighborhoods

By Deborah A. Phillips (editor), Jack P. Shonkoff (editor),

Book cover of From Neurons to Neighborhoods: The Science of Early Childhood Development

Joni Levine Author Of 365 Toddler Activities That Inspire Creativity: Games, Projects, and Pastimes That Encourage a Child's Learning and Imagination

From the list on toddler development and behavior.

Who am I?

My passion has always been caring for and educating young children. I spent over 20 years in the classroom as a child care professional and much of that time was with toddlers. I discovered that the stereotype of the terrible twos was truly misguided. I chose books that will shed new light on why toddlers behave the way that they do. These books will show the reader what an important time this is in a child’s growth and learning. I believe that these books will help convince you that toddlers are not terrible; they are terrific!

Joni's book list on toddler development and behavior

Why did Joni love this book?

What are the biggest impacts on a child’s development? This book takes a close look at both nature (genetics) and nurture (the environment). I find that this book is an informative review of what we have learned about early brain development. The influence of experience and culture on the developing child is looked at through the development of the brain. After reading this book, you will have a renewed understanding of just how critical the early years of child development are. It is easy to see that this is a time of extraordinary growth and change and your role as a parent or educator takes significant meaning and implications.

By Deborah A. Phillips (editor), Jack P. Shonkoff (editor),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked From Neurons to Neighborhoods as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

How we raise young children is one of today's most highly personalized and sharply politicized issues, in part because each of us can claim some level of "expertise." The debate has intensified as discoveries about our development-in the womb and in the first months and years-have reached the popular media.

How can we use our burgeoning knowledge to assure the well-being of all young children, for their own sake as well as for the sake of our nation? Drawing from new findings, this book presents important conclusions about nature-versus-nurture, the impact of being born into a working family, the effect…


Book cover of Understanding Toddlers & Twos: Winning Ways for Early Childhood Professionals

Joni Levine Author Of 365 Toddler Activities That Inspire Creativity: Games, Projects, and Pastimes That Encourage a Child's Learning and Imagination

From the list on toddler development and behavior.

Who am I?

My passion has always been caring for and educating young children. I spent over 20 years in the classroom as a child care professional and much of that time was with toddlers. I discovered that the stereotype of the terrible twos was truly misguided. I chose books that will shed new light on why toddlers behave the way that they do. These books will show the reader what an important time this is in a child’s growth and learning. I believe that these books will help convince you that toddlers are not terrible; they are terrific!

Joni's book list on toddler development and behavior

Why did Joni love this book?

This book is part of a trilogy that offers valuable insights and strategies for caring for young children. Readers will gain an understanding of toddler development and behavior. The author also covers techniques for promoting positive connections with adults and responding to the child’s individual needs.

By Gigi Schweikert,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Understanding Toddlers & Twos as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Understand the complex yet amazing toddler years as you help children develop new skills One- and two-year-olds are in the midst of developing and exploring their skills to communicate, move purposely, and assert their independence and individuality. As their teacher, you have great patience, energy, and creativity as you work with their on the go approach to life. Use this professional development workbook to help navigate the complex toddler years and gain a better understanding of their growth and development. You will improve your interactions with them by responding to their individual needs, find out how to create a routine…


The Whole-Brain Child

By Daniel J. Siegel, Tina Payne Bryson,

Book cover of The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child's Developing Mind

Kim T.S. Author Of Feeling All My Feelings Book

From the list on kids with big feelings.

Who am I?

I’m just a normal parent who has gone through the ups and downs of helping her little boy with his exceptionally big feelings. Anger is the main emotion we continue to struggle with, but we’ve come such a long way! The smallest things used to set him off, and he could go from annoyance to rage in minutes. Sometimes it would take us up to an hour to completely calm down. I tried my best to stay patient, help him work through his feelings, and redirect his anger towards non-harmful modes of expression. When he was calm, then we would talk about what happened, and think of ways we can both do better next time.

Kim's book list on kids with big feelings

Why did Kim love this book?

Many of us tend to focus on the child— the child has tantrums, therefore the child has the problem. It‘s important for me to include this book on the list because adults play an unparalleled role in modeling emotional regulation for kids. We need to remind ourselves that how we respond can make the difference between resolving the situation OR making it worse. This book is an eye-opener and can help grown-ups relate to kids in better ways. It’s about connection before correction, because a dysregulated child (or adult, for that matter), cannot think straight and will not be able to act rationally. The teaching moments can come after we have calmed the storm, always coming from a place of love and understanding.

By Daniel J. Siegel, Tina Payne Bryson,

Why should I read it?

9 authors picked The Whole-Brain Child as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In this pioneering, practical book for parents, neuroscientist Daniel J. Siegel and parenting expert Tina Payne Bryson explain the new science of how a child's brain is wired and how it matures. Different parts of a child's brain develop at different speeds and understanding these differences can help you turn any outburst, argument, or fear into a chance to integrate your child's brain and raise calmer, happier children.

Featuring clear explanations, age-appropriate strategies and illustrations that will help you explain these concepts to your child, The Whole-Brain Child will help your children to lead balanced, meaningful, and connected lives using…


Book cover of My Thomas Potty Book (Thomas & Friends)

Christie Griffin Authier Author Of The Poopy Pants Dance

From the list on children’s stories about going potty.

Who am I?

It doesn’t matter that I’m a former journalist who has also most recently worked at Sesame Workshop (yes, that Elmo!) and Mattel (Fisher-Price, Barbie, Thomas & Friends, etc). When my kiddo shouts, “Mommy! I need a bum bum wipe!” my duty is to get to that doodie ASAP. Ah, parenthood...is there anything more humbling? Someday, my kids might think it’s cool that I wrote for old-school magazines (!) and interviewed celebrities (!!) and lived in NYC for 15 years (!!!). But for now, I’m proud I get to read my silly little children’s book to them any time they ask. Or any book for that matter because books are magic!

Christie's book list on children’s stories about going potty

Why did Christie love this book?

I used to write social-first content for the parent audience of Thomas & Friends, which meant I had to find ways to connect with parents on a relatable level while also using Thomas media. This book squarely hits that mark, and “train moms” will undoubtedly appreciate a little help from Thomas when it’s time to start potty training. In this book, kids are asked to make decisions like which color undies they would like, and they will love the 30 reward stickers that are included. Thanks to this book, “Peep! Peep!” can lead to “Poop! Poop!” 

By Random House,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked My Thomas Potty Book (Thomas & Friends) as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Illustrated with photos of toddlers as they practice potty training, this sturdy board book with reward stickers features Thomas the Tank Engine and friends offering encouragement as toddlers work toward the moment when they can say, "Bye-bye diapers!"


P Is for Potty!

By Naomi Kleinberg, Christopher Moroney (illustrator),

Book cover of P Is for Potty!

Christie Griffin Authier Author Of The Poopy Pants Dance

From the list on children’s stories about going potty.

Who am I?

It doesn’t matter that I’m a former journalist who has also most recently worked at Sesame Workshop (yes, that Elmo!) and Mattel (Fisher-Price, Barbie, Thomas & Friends, etc). When my kiddo shouts, “Mommy! I need a bum bum wipe!” my duty is to get to that doodie ASAP. Ah, parenthood...is there anything more humbling? Someday, my kids might think it’s cool that I wrote for old-school magazines (!) and interviewed celebrities (!!) and lived in NYC for 15 years (!!!). But for now, I’m proud I get to read my silly little children’s book to them any time they ask. Or any book for that matter because books are magic!

Christie's book list on children’s stories about going potty

Why did Christie love this book?

There’s a lot going on in P! is for Potty!—and I like it! In this book, Elmo is having a playdate with his cousin (who is potty training) and there are also lift-the-flaps all over each page. Bonus: Something many people don’t realize is that Sesame Street is run by a non-profit called Sesame Workshop—and the programs and resources they provide for kids and families around the globe are capital I Incredible. So, not to be dramatic about it, but you’re not just making Elmo part of your potty journey if you get this book—you’re basically helping make the world a better place, too.  

By Naomi Kleinberg, Christopher Moroney (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked P Is for Potty! as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Sesame Street's Elmo tells little girls and boys ages 1 to 3 all about how to use the potty in this sturdy lift-the-flap board book with more than 30 flaps to find and open!

P is for Potty is the perfect mix of fun and learning for potty-training toddlers—especially while they practice sitting on the potty! Sturdy flaps will hold up to hours of repeat lifting and peeking, and toddlers will delight in the surprises they find under the flaps.


Potty

By Leslie Patricelli,

Book cover of Potty

Christie Griffin Authier Author Of The Poopy Pants Dance

From the list on children’s stories about going potty.

Who am I?

It doesn’t matter that I’m a former journalist who has also most recently worked at Sesame Workshop (yes, that Elmo!) and Mattel (Fisher-Price, Barbie, Thomas & Friends, etc). When my kiddo shouts, “Mommy! I need a bum bum wipe!” my duty is to get to that doodie ASAP. Ah, parenthood...is there anything more humbling? Someday, my kids might think it’s cool that I wrote for old-school magazines (!) and interviewed celebrities (!!) and lived in NYC for 15 years (!!!). But for now, I’m proud I get to read my silly little children’s book to them any time they ask. Or any book for that matter because books are magic!

Christie's book list on children’s stories about going potty

Why did Christie love this book?

If you’ve never picked up a Leslie Patricelli book, you are in for a treat! Simple yet endearing, Potty is an adorable depiction of a child needing to go potty and wondering what to do. The storyline and expressive phrases really stick with your child, making it all that much easier for a child to connect a beloved book to something daunting like going potty. Seriously, this is probably the only time you’ll see the words “beloved” and “potty” so close together. 

By Leslie Patricelli,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Potty as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A new toddler title charts a crucial achievement. There comes a point in a toddler’s life when going in one’s diaper is only one possible option, and the question must be raised: "Should I go in my potty?"

With pitch-perfect humor and pacing, Leslie Patricelli follows the inner dialogue (sure to have little ones shouting responses) and hilarious actions of everyone’s favorite Baby, winding up with an over-the-top look of surprise and delight that will have both parents and offspring laughing out loud--"I did it!"


Daniel's Potty Time

By Alexandra Cassel Schwartz, Jason Fruchter (illustrator),

Book cover of Daniel's Potty Time

Christie Griffin Authier Author Of The Poopy Pants Dance

From the list on children’s stories about going potty.

Who am I?

It doesn’t matter that I’m a former journalist who has also most recently worked at Sesame Workshop (yes, that Elmo!) and Mattel (Fisher-Price, Barbie, Thomas & Friends, etc). When my kiddo shouts, “Mommy! I need a bum bum wipe!” my duty is to get to that doodie ASAP. Ah, parenthood...is there anything more humbling? Someday, my kids might think it’s cool that I wrote for old-school magazines (!) and interviewed celebrities (!!) and lived in NYC for 15 years (!!!). But for now, I’m proud I get to read my silly little children’s book to them any time they ask. Or any book for that matter because books are magic!

Christie's book list on children’s stories about going potty

Why did Christie love this book?

Getting your child to go potty before leaving the house will be an ongoing battle long after the potty training days are over. I used to say things like, “If you don’t try to go potty, then I’ll have to take away your unicorn stuffie!” Now I say, “Let’s try to go potty like Daniel Tiger does before he goes anywhere.” The book is based on an episode, complete with sing-songy lyrics—and it just works. Ugga mugga!

By Alexandra Cassel Schwartz, Jason Fruchter (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Daniel's Potty Time as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A new generation of children love Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, inspired by the classic series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood!

Daniel Tiger goes to the potty in this relatable 8x8 storybook based on an episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. This book comes with a double-sided poster that little ones can hang up in the bathroom!

Do you have to go potty? Maybe yes? Maybe no? Why don’t you sit and try to go?

Daniel is so excited to go to the market that he insists he doesn’t need to go potty. But then he learns that it’s important to try to go before…


Everyone Poops

By Taro Gomi,

Book cover of Everyone Poops

Karen Deerwester Author Of The Potty Training Answer Book: Practical Answers to the Top 200 Questions Parents Ask

From the list on to survive potty training with humor and understanding.

Who am I?

I love supporting families through the challenges of potty training because I love deciphering the developmental puzzle of potty skill building – the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social pieces all coming together at the perfect time. As a “family time” teacher for over three decades, I know the stories and the setbacks. I want to be the voice for children learning to manage their bodies, their choices and their world. With a Masters and Specialist degree in Early Childhood, I have also conducted national webinars for Early Childhood teachers on collaborating with families on in-school potty training. I hope these books add some fun and sanity to your potty training experience!

Karen's book list on to survive potty training with humor and understanding

Why did Karen love this book?

Everyone Poops is the first book to introduce potty training to toddlers, regardless of where they are on the readiness continuum. It is a must-have in the library of every 18-24 month old. Watch children’s eyes as you read it and you will immediately know something valuable about their potty curiosity! Most importantly, it is the best example of a potty training book that does not push a potty training agenda. Everyone Poops is a biology book, no hidden messages encouraging children to give up diapers before they are ready. 

But, Everyone Poops introduces very important vocabulary. And, yes, it’s fun to say “poop” a hundred times a day while you’re learning something new about how your body works. And, Everyone Poops also reminds children that one day they will choose where to poop – some animals poop in the water. (Note to readers: good place to insert jokes about…

By Taro Gomi,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Everyone Poops as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The beloved, bestselling potty-training classic, now re-released for a new generation!

An elephant makes a big poop. A mouse makes a tiny poop. Everyone eats, so of course: everyone poops!

Taro Gomi's classic, go-to picture book for straight-talk on all things "number 2" is back, as fresh and funny as ever.

• Both a matter-of-fact, educational guide and a hilarious romp through poop territory
• Filled with timeless OMG moments for both kids and adults
• Colorful and content-rich picture book

The concept of going to the bathroom is made concrete through this illustrated narrative that is both verbally and…


5 book lists we think you will like!

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