Why Social-Emotional Learning Starts with Storytime: 10 Books That Build Empathy, Kindness & Confidence

C.M. Harris
Jul 13
2 min read

When I wrote my first children’s book, What If We Were All The Same!, I had no idea it would spark a movement. I simply wanted to help children feel seen. To know that who they are—and how they treat others—matters.

award-winning children's author and disability advocate CM Harris

Fast forward to today, and the What If We Were® series has grown into a 10-book journey through the heart of social-emotional learning (SEL). These stories don’t just rhyme or entertain—they empower. They invite children to be curious, kind, generous, honest, and above all… human.

🌱 What Is SEL, and Why Does It Matter?

Social-emotional learning helps children develop the skills they need to navigate relationships, manage emotions, and make informed decisions. In classrooms, it’s been shown to reduce bullying, improve academic performance, and foster inclusive environments. At home, it strengthens bonds, boosts confidence, and sparks meaningful conversations.

But here’s the magic: when SEL is taught through stories, it sticks.

📖 The

What If We Were®

Series: Stories with Purpose

Each of the ten books in the series focuses on a key SEL value:

Diversity & Self-Love: What If We Were All The Same!
Empathy & Friendship: What If We Were All Friends!
Kindness & Compassion: What If We Were All Kind!
Generosity & Gratitude: What If We Were All Generous!
Honesty & Integrity: What If We Were All Honest!
Mindfulness & Calm: What If We Were All Mindful!
Cultural Celebration: What If We Were All Festive!
Holiday Inclusion: What If We Were All Merry!
Love & Emotional Intelligence: What If We Were All Loving!
Curiosity & Growth Mindset: What If We Were All Curious!

These books feature diverse characters, colorful illustrations, and rhythmic, read-aloud text that makes SEL feel accessible for even the youngest learners.

🎁 Classroom Ready + Parent Approved

Every book includes a free downloadable discussion guide for teachers and parents, making it easy to integrate each story into lesson plans or bedtime routines. Whether you’re an educator building a kinder classroom or a parent raising a compassionate child, these books are tools for transformation.

💬 What Educators Are Saying

“This series belongs in every classroom library. Kids connect with the messages, and the rhymes make it fun to read aloud.”

— Teacher, Long Beach Unified

🏫 Real Impact: School Visits That Spark Change

Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of visiting schools across California and beyond—reading my stories, answering students’ questions, and talking about what it means to be kind, honest, and brave. These school visits are more than just a reading—they’re interactive, inspiring, and unforgettable. Whether I’m visiting in person or virtually, I help students connect the stories to real-life actions they can take every day. And the best part? Watching their faces light up when they realize they are already capable of making a difference.

Interested in a visit for your school?

👉 Book a School Visit

📦 Get the Complete SEL Series Today

The full What If We Were® 10-book bundle is now available with bonus printables and classroom discounts. Perfect for school counselors, teachers, homeschoolers, and parents who want to raise good humans.

👉 Shop the Series Now

👉 Download Free Teacher Guides (coming soon)