I Can Do It Myself! Picture Books for Strong-Willed Children
Any parent knows the mix of pride and patience attached to the statement, “I can do it myself!” Being a little kid means grabbing independence wherever you can … and learning from your successes and failures along the way. These delightful picture books celebrate the spirit of that messy growth.
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Add to BookshelfAll by Myself (Little Critter)
by Mercer Mayer
This classic series has defined independence for generations of children. Little Critter loves to show off his growing skills, whether playing with toys, riding a bike, gardening, or preparing food. Children love how the funny illustrations reveal how “helpful” Little Critter actually is. This title begins a series that includes dozens of other books about common childhood experiences and milestones.
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Owl by Myself
illustrated by Pete Oswald
It’s a big day when Owl decides he’ll do everything “owl by myself,” like brushing his teeth, getting packed for school, and cleaning his room. While he meets his goal in many ways, he also learns an important lesson: Sometimes, doing things with others is more fun!
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$18.99Preorder from:
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All By Myself
by Stephanie Shaw
This barnyard story is a spin on familiar folk tales about chickens who like to do everything themselves. Pig, Horse, and Cow know how independent Hen is, but when a sly fox starts hanging around, they wonder whether they should step in to keep her safe. This is the perfect tale to share with a child and ask them what they think.
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No! Said Rabbit
by Marjoke Henrichs
Oftentimes, little ones don’t just want to do things by themselves; they also want to do them on their own schedule. Rabbit has no patience for listening to Mom’s directions until they include an irresistible offer.
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$8.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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5
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The Baby Who Only Said No!
by Sandra Salsbury
When a strong-willed child first learns the word “No!,” they use it! Baby wants to run the family show and uses her one word with gusto. This hilarious story is perfect for any family in the throes of the “No!” stage.
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I Am Smart, I Am Blessed, I Can Do Anything!
by Alissa Holder and Zulekha Holder-Young
Sometimes kids’ drive to be independent gets zapped by grouchiness. This sweet story shares the relatable experience of a boy named Ayaan and offers young readers an empowering message for those tougher days.
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Little Red Henry
by Linda Urban
Henry’s family treats him like a little baby — but he isn’t one anymore! He’s determined to do everything himself in this creative retelling of The Little Red Hen. His family learns to adjust to his newfound confidence, but they also find that everyone needs a little help sometimes.
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$16.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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Sometimes, All I Need Is Me
by Juliana Perdomo
Young children try to do many things themselves, but learning to self-soothe is difficult. This young protagonist shows readers how to do it with a gentle ease. When she’s out in the world, and things feel uncomfortable or different, she simply finds “home” within herself. We could all learn from her! This book is also available in Spanish.
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Be Careful, Xiao Xin!
by Alice Pung
Little Xiao Xin thinks he is a brave Red Fire Warrior, and resents his parents’ and grandparents’ constant reminders to be careful so much that he runs away. How will he and his family reconcile their hopes and fears? Told in both English and Chinese, this story can spark thoughtful discussion.
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$19.99Buy from Other Retailers:
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10
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Little Troublemaker Makes a Mess
by Luvvie Ajayi Jones
Luvvie is staying home alone with her big sister for the first time. Their ambitions to cook by themselves get the better of them, and they break the rules about using the stove. When their mom returns home to find a disastrous mess, she lovingly teaches them an important lesson about limits.
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11
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I Can Do That!
by DK
To actually do things themselves, children need to learn how! This guide shows kids how to do everything from brushing teeth to doing laundry with straightforward language and step-by-step pictures.
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$21.99Buy from Other Retailers:
