Stories That Celebrate Moms, Caregivers & Self-Love

May invites us to pause—to celebrate the people who nurture us and to care for the inner parts of ourselves that often get overlooked in the day-to-day rhythm of parenting. It’s a time for softening, for gratitude, and for emotional check-ins—both with our children and within ourselves.

Whether you're a mother, caregiver, teacher, or simply someone holding space for others, this month honors you. And one of the most powerful ways to explore love, connection, and well-being? Through stories.

This curated booklist celebrates caregivers, supports emotional growth, and gently encourages kids and adults to embrace empathy, resilience, and self-love.

Books That Celebrate Moms & Caregivers

These stories highlight love in many forms—between mothers and children, grandparents, fathers in nurturing roles, and community caregivers. Perfect for snuggling up and showing children what unconditional care looks and feels like.

• Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora (ages 3–6) Omu shares her delicious stew with neighbors, who return with gratitude and gifts. A celebration of generosity and community care.

• My Mommy Medicine by Edwidge Danticat (ages 3–6)  A cozy read about all the comforting things a mom does when you're not feeling your best—from warm tea to silly games.

  
  

Books That Support Mental Health & Emotional Resilience

Reading stories that reflect a wide range of feelings helps children build emotional intelligence and normalize big emotions like sadness, worry, and self-doubt.

• I Am Enough by Grace Byers (ages 3–7) Affirming and lyrical, this story helps children embrace their unique strengths and self-worth just as they are.

• When Sadness Is at Your Door by Eva Eland (ages 3–7) Sadness is personified as a visitor who just needs your company. A beautiful metaphor for sitting with, not avoiding, tough feelings.

  
  

Books for the Caregiver: You Matter Too

In all the love we give out, we often forget to refill our own cup. If you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver, this month is your gentle reminder to check in with yourself, too.

• The Self-Love Workbook for Women by Megan Logan Journaling prompts and affirmations to help caregivers reconnect with self-worth and compassion.

• You Are a F*cking Awesome Mom by Leslie Anne Bruce  Candid, empowering, and refreshingly honest—perfect for the mom who needs real talk and a reminder she’s not alone.

  
  

Final Thought

Let reading be both a source of joy and moment of care. Choose a story that fills your child’s heart, and maybe even one that speaks to your own. These quiet moments of connection—the laughter, the snuggles, the tears—are the stories your child will carry for life.

Because books don’t just build brains—they build hearts.

Find stories that celebrate dad and father figures in our Father's Day blog:

• Honoring Fathers Through Stories: A Father's Day Booklist for Children