This year we’re getting our Halloween on a little early as learn about bats, the skeletal system, candy chemistry, and all things fear and phobia. Books are are FANTASTIC way to bring these concepts to life, so naturally I had to find some great ones to go along with the first part ouf our unit.

As we learned about fear, we found that these books not only explore the concept of fear in a child-friendly way but also offer valuable life lessons while keeping the spooky spirit alive.

1. “Me and My Fear” by Francesca Sanna This beautifully illustrated book delves into the world of fear through the eyes of a young girl. It introduces the idea of fear as a companion, something that we all experience at times, and how understanding and embracing it can help us grow. It’s a heartwarming story that teaches children that fear is a natural part of life.

2. “What Was I Scared Of?” by Dr. Seuss Leave it to Dr. Seuss to make fear entertaining and whimsical. This book follows the misadventures of a character who is afraid of an empty pair of pants! It’s a delightful story that teaches kids that sometimes our fears are based on misunderstandings and that confronting them can lead to unexpected friendships. Oh, and did I mention it glows in the dark?! My girls got a kick out of that one.

3. “The Dark” by Lemony Snicket This book takes a unique approach to fear by personifying it as “the dark.” It follows a boy named Laszlo as he confronts his fear of the dark and learns that it’s not as terrifying as he imagines. It’s a reassuring tale that helps children understand and conquer their own fears.

4. “Scaredy Squirrel” by Melanie Watt Scaredy Squirrel is a lovable character who is scared of just about everything. This book is a delightful journey as Scaredy Squirrel faces his fears one by one, discovering that sometimes stepping out of our comfort zone can lead to wonderful adventures.

5. “Creepy Carrots!” by Aaron Reynolds This humorous and slightly spooky book tells the story of a rabbit who becomes convinced that creepy carrots are stalking him. It’s a fun way to explore how our imagination can sometimes get the better of us and make us afraid of harmless things. This was a favorite around our household with my toddler asking if she could read it to me EVERY night.

These five books have become a valuable supplement to our Halloween unit, helping us children understand that fear is a natural emotion and that it can be managed and even turned into something positive! The stories not only entertain, but also impart important life lessons about courage, understanding, and the power of confronting our fears.

As we read these books alongside our Halloween activities, we create a safe space for our kids to explore the theme of fear without overwhelming them. And who knows… they might even start eating their carrots after a day with Jasper Rabbit.