Best Behavior® – serie

“Crunch crunch crunch. Teeth are strong and sharp. Crunch crunch crunch. Teeth can help you chew. But teeth are not for biting. Ouch! Biting hurts.” Sooner or later, almost all young children will bite someone—a friend, a parent, a sibling. This upbeat, colorful, virtually indestructible book helps prevent biting and teaches positive alternatives.Teeth Are Not for Biting gives reasons why children might want to bite. Little mouths feel sore when new teeth come in; sometimes kids bite when they’re hungry, tired, cranky, frustrated, angry, bored, distressed, or seeking attention. Author Elizabeth Verdick suggests positive things children can do instead of biting: chew a chewy toy, drink a cold drink, get a hug, tell a grown-up. This book also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.Best Behavior® SeriesSimple words and lively full-color illustrations guide children to choose positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages 1–4 and an expanded paperback for ages 4–7. Bilingual board book and paperback editions of select titles also are available. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips for teachers, caregivers, and parents.

Some of your words are kind. But some of them are not. Words are not for hurting. What do hurtful words do?”Children are known for speaking their minds. We can’t expect them to watch every word, but we can help them to understand that their words affect other people. We can gently guide them to choose words that are helpful instead of hurtful, and to say two very important words—“I’m sorry”—when hurtful words come out before they can stop them.Like Free Spirit's earlier board books Hands Are Not for Hitting and Teeth Are Not for Biting, Words Are Not for Hurting helps little ones learn big ideas: that they are responsible for what they do and say; that their actions and words affect others; and that they can make positive choices. Simple words and delightful full-color illustrations make it perfect for reading aloud one-on-one or in small groups. The book also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.

Help kids choose helpful words, not hurtful words.Words Are Not for Hurting shows young children how words can be hurtful and what to do about it. For children ages 4–7, this engaging book explains that it’s not okay to insult, tease, name-call, or exclude others. Adults and children can read this book together to start conversations about topics like sticking up for yourself, apologizing when you say something hurtful, and choosing kind ways to express feelings or set boundaries.In kid-friendly terms and with engaging illustrations, this book helps children choose words that don’t harm others. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this title helps readers develop communication skills they can carry with them for life.Shows how to recognize and respond to insults, name-calling, and other hurtful wordsTeaches children what to do if they or someone else uses hurtful languagePairs simple text with bright, inclusive images of children in everyday situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleWords Are Not for Hurting is a great resource for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to teach kids to speak respectfully. The book can be read in response to situations that arise, or as part of daily routines. A special section for adults offers practical strategies for teaching children about kindness—including how our tone of voice and facial expressions lend meaning to our words. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

“Look at those feet! Aren’t they sweet?” Yes—when they’re walking, standing, leaping and landing. And when they’re kicking balls or leaves. But not when they’re kicking people!In simple words and charming full-color illustrations, this book helps little ones learn to use their feet for fun, not in anger or frustration. It also includes tips for parents and caregivers on how to help toddlers be sweet with their feet.

If pets could talk, what would they say? Maybe “Fur is for petting, backs are for scratching, noses are for nuzzling . . . and tails are not for pulling!” Toddlers and pets belong together—as long as toddlers don’t chase, grab, squeeze, yank, and tease. In simple words and delightful illustrations, this book teaches the basics of kindness to animals: careful handling, awareness, safety, and respect. It also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers.

Achoo! Cough! F-L-U-S-H! What to do? In childcare, in preschool, at home, and everywhere, toddlers need to learn that germs are not for sharing. Rather than focus on what germs are, this book teaches the basics of not spreading them: Cover up a sneeze or cough. Hug or blow kisses when you’re sick. And most of all, wash your hands! Child-friendly words and full-color illustrations help little ones stay clean and healthy. Includes tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

Teach children life skills to prevent the spread of germsGerms Are Not for Sharing helps young children develop good hygiene and hand-washing habits. It explains, in kid-friendly language and with engaging illustrations, what germs are and how they can spread and cause illness. Readers learn to cover their faces when they cough and sneeze and how to wash their hands thoroughly. Extended text in the back expands on the book’s themes, explaining how and why we work to prevent germs from spreading.Great for classrooms and to read at home, this informative book shows kids ages 4–7 to be germ aware. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this title helps children develop health and wellness skills they can carry with them for life.Shows why good hygiene helps prevent us from getting sickTeaches children to cough, sneeze, and wash hands hygienicallyFeatures relatable, inclusive illustrations to show kids in everyday situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleGerms Are Not for Sharing is a useful resource for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to encourage good hand-washing hygiene. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

It’s never too soon for children to learn that violence is never okay, hands can do many good things, and everyone is capable of positive, loving actions.In this bright, inviting, durable board book, simple words and full-color illustrations teach these important concepts in ways even very young children can understand.Created in response to requests from parents, preschool teachers, and childcare providers, this book belongs everywhere young children are. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.Best Behavior® SeriesSimple words and lively full-color illustrations guide children to choose positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages 1–4 and an expanded paperback for ages 4–7. Bilingual board book and paperback editions of titles are also available. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips for teachers, caregivers, and parents.

Learning to use the potty takes patience and practice, and this charming, straightforward book helps pave the way. Young children learn how to use the potty and why it’s time to do so, while gaining the courage and confidence to face this important milestone in their lives. When little ones learn to “do what the big kids do” (go, wipe, flush, wash their hands), they won’t need a diaper anymore—they’ll have underwear under there! Includes tips for parents and caregivers from a children’s health specialist.

This paperback version of Hands Are Not for Hitting is an English social-emotional learning book aimed at children ages 4 to 7 (grades PK-2). Through simple, direct language and vibrant illustrations, this title teaches young readers that hands can be used for kindness, not harm. Children learn respectful behaviors like helping, sharing, and gentle touch, along with strategies to manage impulses and choose positive actions. It’s ideal for read-alouds, classroom behavior lessons, or family conversations.Paperback edition of *Hands Are Not for Hitting* for ages?4-7, grades PK-2Uses clear text and images to teach nonviolent, respectful behaviorShows hands used for positive actions, not hitting or harmingGives children strategies for impulse control and conflict resolutionGreat for SEL lessons, guided reading, or caregiver discussions

Little ones learn that hitting is never okay, hands can do many good things, and everyone is capable of positive, loving actions. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.

Teach kids proper hygiene, hand washing, and how to stop the spread of germs with this English-Spanish bilingual picture book.Sneezes, coughs, runny noses, and messy hands are part of everyday life—but kids need to learn how to stay healthy and keep germs from spreading. Germs Are Not for Sharing / Los gérmenes no son para compartir is an engaging English-Spanish bilingual picture book that helps children ages 4–7 understand what germs are, how they spread, and what they can do to prevent illness.Using simple, kid-friendly language and bright illustrations, this reassuring book teaches essential habits like washing hands thoroughly, covering coughs and sneezes, and making safe, healthy choices at home and school. It’s especially helpful for children who forget hygiene routines or are learning to take responsibility for their health.Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this book helps children build lifelong wellness habits and awareness.In this book, children will:Learn how to avoid spreading germs and getting sickPractice proper hand-washing and hygiene routinesUnderstand why covering coughs and sneezes mattersBuild healthy habits for school, home, and daycareMake responsible choices that protect othersPerfect for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors, this book is ideal for back-to-school, classrooms, and everyday routines.Includes a helpful adult section in both English and Spanish with tips for teaching hygiene, illness prevention, and healthy habits.

“Look at those feet! Aren’t they sweet?” Yes—when they’re walking, standing, leaping, and landing. And when they’re kicking balls or leaves. But not when they’re kicking people!In simple words and charming full-color illustrations, this bilingual English-Spanish book helps toddlers learn to use their feet for fun, not in anger or frustration. It also includes tips for parents and caregivers in both languages on how to help toddlers be sweet with their feet.

Potty training for kids takes patience and practice, and this charming, straightforward book helps pave the way. With Diapers Are Not Forever / Los pañales no son para siempre, young children learn how to use the potty and why it’s time to do so, while gaining the courage and confidence to face this important milestone in their lives. When little ones learn to do what the big kids do (go, wipe, flush, wash their hands), they won’t need a diaper anymore—they’ll have underwear under there! The book includes tips for parents and caregivers from a children’s health specialist.

We’ve all seen it—the nose-picking habit starts as early as the toddler years, and no child is the exception. Young children pick their noses for a variety of reasons, from colds to allergies to curiosity or boredom. This board book for toddlers and preschoolers is the answer to the age-old question “How can I get my child not to pick, especially not in public?”With gentle humor and kid-friendly support, this board book for toddlers and preschoolers helps guide little ones away from nose picking toward healthier habits, like using a tissue and washing their hands. Catchy words help children remember what to do; vibrant full-color illustrations bring the words to life. Throughout, the positive message shines through: noses are for breathing, sniffing, smelling . . . but not for picking!

English-Spanish bilingual editions of titles in Free Spirit’s popular Best Behavior series.The toddler years are full of growth and smiles and sweetness—but also tantrums. With toddlers, yelling, screaming, wailing, and flailing are a normal part of life. Very young children don’t yet have the words to express strong feelings, and they’re still learning social skills. This board book helps little ones understand why it’s better to use an indoor voice—“so people hear the words and not the yelling”—and how to calm down and ask for help so they can get what they need. Also includes tips for parents and caregivers.The Best Behavior series uses simple words and delightful full-color illustrations to guide children to choose peaceful, positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages baby–preschool, and a longer, more in-depth paperback for ages 4–7. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

Help kids tune in to the volume of their voices and respond to feelings without yellingBig feelings like frustration and excitement can make us want to yell, but we can choose to use our indoor voices instead. In Voices Are Not for Yelling, children learn that it’s okay to feel frustrated, angry, or excited—and that they can express those feelings calmly. Great for classrooms and to read at home, this reassuring book shows kids ages 4–7 how to pause, take deep breaths, and use words to communicate clearly and respectfully. With simple text and bright, inclusive illustrations, this book empowers children to manage their voices and express themselves in positive ways.In kid-friendly terms, Voices Are Not for Yelling shows how strong emotions can be regulated with breathing, so we can use our words to get our needs met. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this title helps young children develop communication and behavior skills they can carry with them for life.Shows that using words and indoor voices can help us feel heardGives children ideas for calming themselves before they yellEncourages kids to save loud voices for appropriate outdoor settingsUses relatable, inclusive illustrations to show kids in everyday situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleVoices Are Not for Yelling is a helpful resource for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to encourage peaceful communication. The book can be read during emotional moments or as part of everyday routines, opening conversations and supporting children in building positive voice habits. A special section for adults offers practical strategies for guiding kids toward calm expression and setting healthy boundaries without resorting to yelling. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

New bilingual title from Free Spirit’s popular Best Behavior® board book series of English-Spanish books for kids.Many young children go through a biting phase. This upbeat, colorful, bilingual English-Spanish board book gives reasons why children might want to bite. Little mouths feel sore when new teeth come in; sometimes kids bite when they’re hungry, tired, cranky, frustrated, angry, bored, distressed, or seeking attention. This book helps prevent toddler biting and teaches positive alternatives: chew a chewy toy, drink a cold drink, get a hug, tell a grown-up. The book also includes helpful tips for parents and caregivers in both English and Spanish.

Help kids use calm voices, manage big emotions, and communicate respectfully with this English-Spanish bilingual picture book.Big feelings like frustration and excitement can make kids want to yell—but they can learn to express those feelings in positive ways. Voices Are Not for Yelling / La voz no es para gritar is an engaging English-Spanish bilingual picture book that helps children ages 4–7 understand when to use an indoor voice, when loud voices are okay, and how to communicate clearly and respectfully.Using simple, kid-friendly language and bright, relatable illustrations, this reassuring book teaches children how to pause, take deep breaths, and use words to express their needs instead of yelling. Kids learn that strong emotions are normal—and that they can choose calm, respectful ways to be heard.Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this book supports social-emotional learning by helping children build self-control, communication skills, and positive behavior habits they can use at home, in school, and in social settings.In this book, children will:Learn when to use an indoor voice and when loud voices are appropriatePractice calming strategies like breathing before reactingUse words to express feelings instead of yellingBuild respectful communication and listening skillsDevelop self-control and emotional awarenessPerfect for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors, this book is ideal for classrooms, home routines, and moments when children need help managing their voices and emotions.Includes a helpful adult section in both English and Spanish with tips and strategies for encouraging calm communication, setting boundaries, and supporting positive behavior.

The toddler years are full of growth and smiles—but also tantrums. Toddlers don’t yet have the words to express strong feelings, and they’re still learning social skills. This bilingual English-Spanish board book helps little ones understand why it’s better to use an indoor voice and how to calm down and ask for help. Includes tips for parents and caregivers.

Help children learn, in English and Spanish, to use their feet safely for fun and play.“Look at those feet! Aren’t they sweet?” Yes—when they’re walking, standing, leaping, and landing. And when they’re kicking balls or leaves. But not when they’re kicking people!In simple words and charming full-color illustrations, this bilingual English-Spanish book helps toddlers learn to use their feet for fun, not in anger or frustration. It also includes tips for parents and caregivers in both languages on how to help toddlers be sweet with their feet.

Help kids recognize feelings of worry and develop healthy ways to copeWorries and what ifs pop up all the time—and then they go away again. In Worries Are Not Forever, children learn that worrying thoughts are safe and fleeting. Whether their worries are big or small, this reassuring book shows kids ages 4–7 how to shrink worried thoughts by talking about them, asking for a hug, going outside, moving around, and replacing anxious thoughts with happier ones. With simple text and bright, inclusive illustrations, this book encourages children to stay optimistic and calm, even when worries seem scary.In kid-friendly terms, this book explains worry, encourages children to find reasons to feel grateful, and shows how simple actions can bring the nervous system back into balance. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this title gives children strategies they can use to navigate the ups and downs of childhood.Normalizes worrying and the uncomfortable feelings that can come with itTeaches ways of coping with worry and disrupting anxious thoughtsEncourages talking about worries and replacing them with gratitudeUses relatable, inclusive illustrations to show kids in everyday situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleWorries Are Not Forever is a helpful tool for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to support children in understanding and managing their worry. It can be read during anxious moments—before a big event, during stressful transitions—or any time to open conversations and provide support. A special back matter section for adults offers tips and simple activities to help children recognize, talk about, and calm their worries with confidence. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

Give toddlers tools to ease anxieties and worries and feel better again.It’s normal for toddlers to worry and feel anxious—they have enough experience with the world to know that things may go wrong. With warmth and empathy, this board book helps little ones understand what it means to worry and that “Everybody worries, even grown-ups. But worries are not forever. You can help your worries go away.” Through colorful illustrations and simple ideas, toddlers learn to talk to someone, get a hug, keep hands and bodies busy, think good thoughts, and more. Also includes tips for parents and caregivers.Best Behavior® SeriesThe Best Behavior series uses simple words and delightful full-color illustrations to guide children to choose peaceful, positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages baby–preschool, and a longer, more in-depth paperback for ages 4–7. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

Toddlers learn skills for being patient that make waiting easier for everyone.Toddlers live in the moment. When they want something, they want it now. But learning self-control and delayed gratification will set up young children for success in school and in social settings. Practicing patience is the key. With her trademark mix of empathy and encouragement, author Elizabeth Verdick acknowledges that waiting can be frustrating and offers toddlers simple ideas to make waiting easier. Little ones can use waiting time to watch the world around them, listen to music, tell stories, sing songs, whisper, play games, build with Legos, draw pictures, move or stretch, and more. Children learn, “I can wait a while. I can do it with a smile.”In this twelfth addition to the best-selling Best Behavior board book series, Marieka Heinlen’s vivid illustrations of young children interacting with their caregivers and families bring warmth and fun to every spread. The book closes with tips to help parents and care providers foster patience in young children.Best Behavior® SeriesThe Best Behavior series uses simple words and delightful full-color illustrations to guide children to choose peaceful, positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages baby–preschool, and a longer, more in-depth paperback for ages 4–7. Children, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

Help kids learn that patience takes practice, and waiting isn’t wasted timeWaiting is part of life—but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. In Waiting Is Not Forever, children learn that waiting doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Whether they're waiting for a turn, for dinner, or for something bigger, this reassuring book helps kids ages 4–7 understand that waiting time can be filled with noticing, imagining, creating, and playing. With simple text and bright, inclusive illustrations, this book encourages children to stay optimistic and calm, even when things seem to take forever.In kid-friendly language, this book gives children tools for managing the feelings that often come with waiting, like frustration, restlessness, and boredom. It encourages positive self-talk (“I’m calm and patient!”) and shows how everyday waiting moments can become opportunities for creativity and fun. Part of the award-winning Best Behavior® series, this title supports young children to learn a valuable life skill.Normalizes waiting and the uncomfortable feelings that can come with itTeaches ways to stay engaged during wait times—without relying on screensEncourages positive self-talk and calm behaviors during moments of anticipationUses relatable, inclusive illustrations to show kids waiting in everyday situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleWaiting Is Not Forever is a helpful tool for parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to support children in building patience and resilience. It can be read before or during waiting situations—like car rides, long lines, or transitions—to spark discussion and set expectations. A special back matter section for adults offers tips and simple activities to help children stay busy, regulate their emotions, and practice waiting with calm and confidence. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

New English-Spanish bilingual edition gives young children strategies to ease anxieties and worries and feel better again.It’s normal for toddlers to worry and feel anxious—they have enough experience with the world to know that things may go wrong. With warmth and empathy, this bilingual English-Spanish board book helps little ones understand what it means to worry and that “Everybody worries, even grown-ups. But worries are not forever. You can help your worries go away.” Through colorful illustrations and simple ideas, toddlers learn how to calm worries by talking to someone, getting a hug, keeping hands and bodies busy, thinking good thoughts, and more. Also includes a special section with tips for adults in both languages.Best Behavior® Bilingual SeriesThe Best Behavior® bilingual series uses simple words in English and Spanish and delightful full-color illustrations to guide children to choose peaceful, positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages baby to preschool and a longer, more in-depth paperback for ages four to seven. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

Help kids unplug from their devices and establish good habits that will keep them safe onlineScreens can help us learn, play, and stay connected. But kids also need plenty of time away from screens to grow, sleep well, play freely, and connect with others in real life. Screen Time Is Not Forever helps children and families understand the importance of moderating their tech use. Using simple language and relatable examples, this encouraging book teaches that screens are just one part of a full and healthy life. Kids learn what to do when it’s time to turn off the tablet or TV—and how to make smart choices when they’re online.The award-winning Best Behavior® series supports children in learning everyday social-emotional skills, like managing impulses, choosing respectful behavior, and navigating daily boundaries with confidence. Whether the challenge is ending a favorite show or staying screen-safe online, this book helps kids build lifelong habits rooted in self-awareness, balance, and care.Demonstrates the importance of device-free time with friends, family, and aloneTeaches simple safety rules for using screens responsibly and staying safe onlineEncourages positive choices instead of defaulting to screen time out of boredom or habitPairs bright illustrations with clear language to help kids connect to real-life situationsExpands on the themes in the board book with the same titleScreen Time Is Not Forever helps parents, caregivers, educators, and counselors who want to set screen-time limits without power struggles. Ideal for reading at home or in classrooms, it opens up positive conversations about digital balance and online safety. The book also includes back matter with practical tips and activities to help adults create healthy screen-time routines and guide children in developing tech habits that support their well-being. Great for children who read the board book edition and need an expanded reminder when behaviors resurface.

Help young children learn screen-time boundaries and fun ways to spend “screens-off” time.As important as screens are in our lives, we all need to unplug, especially children. This active, encouraging board book offers young children and families an easy way to set boundaries and limits for screen time, and to find enjoyable ways to spend time without screens. “Together, we say, ‘All done.’ Now follow up with something fun.” Screen time can be helpful and fun, but it’s important for toddlers to learn that screen time can’t be all the time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends consistent limits on screen time for young children. With her trademark mix of empathy and encouragement, author Elizabeth Verdick offers appealing and healthy alternatives to using screens, like singing, swinging, or playing pretend!The book ends with additional ideas and activities to help adults navigate screen time with toddlers and preschoolers.Best Behavior® SeriesThe Best Behavior® series uses simple words and delightful full-color illustrations to guide children to choose peaceful, positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages baby to preschool, and a longer, more in-depth paperback for ages four to seven. Bilingual board books and paperback editions are available for select titles. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.

English-Spanish board book helps toddlers learn skills for being patient that make waiting easier for everyone.Toddlers live in the moment. When they want something, they want it now. But learning self-control and delayed gratification will set up young children for success in school and in social settings. Practicing patience is the key. With her trademark mix of empathy and encouragement, author Elizabeth Verdick acknowledges that waiting can be frustrating and offers toddlers simple ideas in English and Spanish to make waiting easier. Little ones can use waiting time to watch the world around them, listen to music, tell stories, sing songs, whisper, play games, build with Legos, draw pictures, move or stretch, and more. Children learn, “I can wait a while. I can do it with a smile.”In this ninth addition to the Best Behavior® English-Spanish bilingual board book series, Marieka Heinlen’s vivid illustrations of young children interacting with their caregivers and families bring warmth and fun to every page. The book closes with tips in both languages to help adults foster patience in young children.Best Behavior® SeriesSimple words and lively full-color illustrations guide children to choose positive behaviors. Select titles are available in two versions: a durable board book for ages 1–4 and an expanded paperback for ages 4–7. Bilingual board book and paperback editions of select titles also are available. Kids, parents, and teachers love these award-winning books. All include helpful tips for teachers, caregivers, and parents.