Boo! How to pick scary books for kids that thrill but won’t haunt for life
A children’s literature author explains how some of her favorite Halloween-themed children’s books can help children prepare for the holiday ahead.
Halloween provides a unique opportunity for children to experience a balance of excitement and fear. As one of the few holidays centered around children, it's common for them to come to school dressed as astronauts, monsters, or witches, and even ring doorbells for candy. However, there is a darker side to the holiday, as horror's images can be frightening, whether they're invited or not. Parents may wonder what the right amount of scary content is for their child.
To guide parents, Maurice Sendak, a renowned author and illustrator, suggests that children should not be exposed to the same book repeatedly if it causes fear. Instead, it's better to offer a variety of books that can provide both enjoyment and a sense of overcoming challenges. Some Halloween picture-book classics that are suitable for all ages include Felicia Bond's "The Halloween Performance" (also known as "The Halloween Play").
In this story, a nervous mouse named Roger overcomes his stage fright to shine in the school performance, inspiring other children to face their fears and create memorable experiences.
Other books that are suitable for young readers include Arnold Lobel's "Frog and Toad" series, which showcases the duo's enjoyment of facing their fears through storytelling and imaginative play. In "Shivers," Frog and Toad tell a spooky tale about an old dark frog who seeks out children, but they laugh at each other's terror. In "Dragons and Giants," the friends test their bravery by looking into a mirror, questioning whether they are truly brave.
These stories demonstrate that fear is a natural part of childhood, and it's essential for children to learn to cope with it in a healthy way.
Like "Scary Stories," which features powerful, dreamlike illustrations by Stephen Gammell, these books can provide a thrilling experience that is both enjoyable and educational. By recognizing the difference between fantasy and reality, children can practice fear management and develop resilience. Ultimately, scary books can be a natural and beneficial part of childhood, helping children to grow and face the world with courage.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
