Families who loved Deep Blue: Swimming in the Big Blue Sea by Dashka Slater often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is facing a developmental milestone that requires them to let go of a security object or a safety net. Whether it is a floatie at the pool, training wheels on a bike, or a comfort toy, this story speaks directly to the anxiety of feeling small in a big world. It beautifully illustrates how a child can transition from fear to confidence through the power of play and a supportive adult presence. Following Kayla as she loses her favorite dolphin floatie, the story explores the sensory overwhelm of the ocean, including the feeling of sand moving and water going up her nose. It is a perfect choice for children ages 3 to 7 who are working through physical fears. By showing how a father uses imagination to bridge the gap between 'scary' and 'safe,' the book provides a roadmap for parents to help their children build resilience and self-reliance in a gentle, lyrical way.
