Families who loved The Berenstain Bears and the Bad Habit by Jan Berenstain 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 you notice your child has developed a nervous habit, like nail-biting, thumb-sucking, or hair-twirling, especially during times of transition or stress. It is a comforting tool for addressing the physical manifestations of anxiety without making the child feel shamed or singled out. In this story, Sister Bear begins biting her nails, leading to a family-wide exploration of how stress affects us all. The book emphasizes that habits are often subconscious reactions to 'the jitters' and offers a supportive, multi-pronged approach to breaking them. By showing that even Mama and Papa have their own struggles, it creates a safe space for elementary-aged children to discuss their feelings and build self-awareness.
