10 Best Children's Books About Self-Control (2025)

Self-control books are a valuable tool for teaching children essential skills for emotional regulation, problem-solving, and resilience.

A study published in 2022 examined how childhood self-control, as rated by first-grade teachers, influenced outcomes like education, criminal justice, and substance disorder involvement in adulthood [*].

High self-control was linked to better educational outcomes, such as on-time high school graduation and college attendance. Additionally, a classroom-based intervention was effective in reducing substance use disorders and criminal justice involvement.

Another study followed children from birth to age 45 to explore how self-control in early childhood impacts aging [*]. The findings indicated that better childhood self-control was linked to slower aging and better management of health, social, and financial challenges in midlife.

These findings emphasize the importance of nurturing self-control in young children.

Children's Books About Self-Control

These books about self-control provide kids with valuable lessons on managing impulses, understanding emotions, and making thoughtful decisions.

1. What Should Danny Do? — Adir Levy and Ganit Levy

A unique and interactive “Choose Your Own Adventure” book, this story follows Danny, a boy learning to make decisions that affect his day.

With nine storylines to explore, children can see how their choices impact outcomes. This promotes the idea of self-control in a fun, engaging way.

Price: $12.52 on Amazon, $21.99 on Barnes and Noble

2. My Mouth Is a Volcano! — Julia Cook

This humorous yet insightful story addresses the challenges of interrupting others. Louis, the protagonist, learns strategies to control his outbursts.

This book is a great resource for children struggling with self-regulation in social settings. It offers strategies to help kids think before they speak and practice better self-control during conversations.

Price: $9.86 on Amazon, $10.95 on Barnes and Noble

3. Clark the Shark — Bruce Hale

Clark is an energetic shark who learns the importance of controlling his excitement to maintain friendships. This delightful book uses relatable scenarios and engaging illustrations to teach kids about emotional regulation.

In this book, children will enjoy the rhythmic, fun text that reinforces positive social behavior. It helps young readers connect emotional control to the idea of building strong, lasting friendships.

Price: $14.00 on Amazon, $19.99 on Barnes and Noble

4. Decibella and Her 6-Inch Voice — Julia Cook

Through the story of Decibella, kids discover how to adjust their volume in different situations.

This entertaining book helps children understand self-control in communication. It’s particularly helpful for children learning to explore social settings like classrooms or group activities. The story empowers kids to realize that controlling their voices can lead to more positive interactions with others.

Price: $10.54 on Amazon, $11.95 on Barnes and Noble

5. Waiting Is Not Easy! — Mo Willems

Part of the “Elephant and Piggie” series, this book hilariously captures the struggle of waiting.

With simple language and expressive illustrations, children learn patience and impulse control. The lovable characters make the lesson enjoyable and relatable for young readers. It’s a perfect tool for parents and teachers to discuss the value of patience and waiting.

Price: $7.98 on Amazon, $10.99 on Barnes and Noble

6. Lacey Walker, Nonstop Talker — Christianne Jones

Lacey loves to talk, but when she loses her voice, she discovers the value of listening and self-control.  This story is perfect for teaching kids how to balance speaking and listening in conversations. It also emphasizes the importance of respecting others' thoughts and feelings.

The book encourages children to recognize the power of listening, which is just as important as speaking.

Price: $11.63 on Amazon, $18.99 on Barnes and Noble

7. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day — Judith Viorst

This timeless classic portrays Alexander’s challenging day and how he feels his emotions. It’s a wonderful resource for teaching resilience and self-management during tough times.

Children learn that difficult days are a normal part of life and can be overcome. It helps young readers understand that their emotions are valid, and with self-control, they can overcome frustration and setbacks.

Price: $7.42 on Amazon, $8.99 on Barnes and Noble

8. Interrupting Chicken — David Ezra Stein

Little Chicken loves stories but can’t resist interrupting her father while he reads. This award-winning book is an engaging way to help kids understand the importance of waiting their turn.

Its whimsical illustrations add charm and depth to the meaningful message. The playful tone encourages children to reflect on the value of patience and taking turns in conversations.

Price: $7.35 on Amazon, $8.99 on Barnes and Noble

9. Cookies: Bite-Size Life Lessons — Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Through the metaphor of cookies, this book explores concepts like patience, respect, and self-control. It’s a charming read for young children learning about emotional intelligence.

Each lesson is paired with delightful illustrations that keep readers engaged. The fun, simple approach makes it easy for kids to understand complex emotional concepts.

Price: $8.49 on Amazon, $18.99 on Barnes and Noble

10. Hands Are Not for Hitting — Martine Agassi

This straightforward and impactful book helps children understand that hands are for kind and constructive actions, not hitting. It’s an excellent resource for managing aggressive behavior.

The easy-to-follow language makes it accessible for young readers and adults to discuss together.  It emphasizes the importance of kindness and the impact of self-control on relationships.

Price: $10.29 on Amazon, $11.99 on Barnes and Noble

The Bottom Line

Help children develop the vital skill of restraint by exploring these 10 books on self-control.

These provide kids with valuable lessons on managing impulses, understanding emotions, and making thoughtful decisions. They encourage children to practice patience, resilience, and problem-solving in everyday situations.

Many of these books also highlight the importance of self-awareness, and help kids recognize their feelings and take control of their actions. By integrating engaging stories and relatable characters, these books make learning self-control both fun and educational for young readers.

For additional support, check out our social skills worksheets. These worksheets complement the lessons from the books by offering interactive and visual exercises to help children practice self-regulation, understand emotions, and build stronger interpersonal skills.

References:

1. Johnson SB, Voegtline KM, Ialongo N, Hill KG, Musci RJ. Self-control in first grade predicts success in the transition to adulthood. Dev Psychopathol. 2023 Aug;35(3):1358-1370. doi: 10.1017/S0954579421001255. Epub 2022 Jan 24. PMID: 35068406; PMCID: PMC9308826.
2. L.S. Richmond-Rakerd, A. Caspi, A. Ambler, T. d’Arbeloff, M. de Bruine, M. Elliott, H. Harrington, S. Hogan, R.M. Houts, D. Ireland, R. Keenan, A.R. Knodt, T.R. Melzer, S. Park, R. Poulton, S. Ramrakha, L.J.H. Rasmussen, E. Sack, A.T. Schmidt, M.L. Sison, J. Wertz, A.R. Hariri, T.E. Moffitt, Childhood self-control forecasts the pace of midlife aging and preparedness for old age, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 118 (3) e2010211118, https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2010211118 (2021).