Families who loved The Jitter Bag by Erin Mengeu 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 struggling with the physical sensations of anxiety, such as butterflies in their stomach, sweaty palms, or restlessness, and needs a concrete way to ground themselves. It follows a young child who, with the help of a supportive mother, creates a Jitter Bag filled with sensory items to help manage big feelings during a busy day. This story is particularly effective because it validates that everyone gets the jitters while offering a proactive, creative solution. It is ideal for children ages 4 to 8 who are navigating new environments or who benefit from sensory-based coping mechanisms. By focusing on a tangible toolkit, the book empowers children to take an active role in their own emotional regulation through art and tactile play.