By Glenn A. Johnson
Introducing children to storybooks has long been celebrated as a cornerstone of early development. Stories entertain, ignite imagination, and lay the foundation for literacy. But books are more than just tales of adventure or whimsy. They are vital tools for teaching empathy, problem-solving, and social-emotional learning (SEL). SEL books, in particular, address developmental challenges, help children understand their emotions, and guide them in navigating the complex world around them.
As a journalist, my news stories reached millions around the world, delivering facts and leaving interpretation to readers. The role of a journalist is critical in presenting truth, but it is often distant and impartial. Now, as I write stories I hope to be published as children’s picture books, my writing takes a different, deeply personal path. Some stories I wrote for my children contained no pictures as I wanted my sons to develop their imagination.
Now that they are grown, writing for children allows me to create narratives that entertain and, just as importantly, teach. These stories are not just about letters on a page—they are tools to foster understanding, acceptance, and growth. Writing a 1,000-word news story is relatively easy as you have so many opportunities to pass on the information you want to share. However, writing for children means the text is limited, so each word is critical.
SEL books hold a unique power. They can address vital topics like bullying, inclusion, and coping with emotions in ways children can grasp. For example, a story about a misunderstood character can help children empathize with peers who may act differently because of developmental challenges. One of my stories is deeply personal as my youngest son is autistic. It will be a book that explores kindness and acceptance and hopefully will inspire children to treat others with respect and compassion. Through storytelling, complex issues are made accessible, creating a safe space for children to explore feelings and relationships.
Traditional storybooks also play a significant role in developing cognitive and social skills. They improve vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking, but their impact goes beyond academics. A well-crafted story introduces moral lessons, cultural awareness, and ethical dilemmas, offering children a framework for understanding the world. The advent of the internet has given children access to endless information, but it lacks the nurturing touch of a thoughtfully written book. The curated experience of a story helps children process their emotions and learn how to relate to others.
This is some of the most important writing I can imagine, as it helps children learn not only to read but also to interact with others. It teaches them how to deal with bullies, accept differences, and understand children with developmental issues. While the internet offers raw materials, only books can truly reach a child’s heart and mind to help them grow.
See DC Canada’s growing collection of SEL books here: https://www.dc-canada.ca/books-by-theme/#sel
Glenn A. Johnson is an accomplished writer, newspaper editor-in-chief, and journalist with a career spanning 40 years. His work with The Canadian Press has appeared in every Canadian daily newspaper. He also wrote for The Wall Street Journal and The Sunday Telegraph in London and spent time in Abu Dhabi as an editor for The National.
Glenn has transitioned his storytelling skills into writing for children’s books. He creates engaging stories that entertain young readers while addressing essential themes like social-emotional learning (SEL), inclusion, and acceptance. As a proud member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the Canadian Society of Children’s Authors, Illustrators and Performers, Glenn is dedicated to crafting stories that help children learn, grow, and connect.
Glenn is also an international voiceover artist, musician, and radio host (QCCRFM.COM).
Glenn and his partner Pamela live in Ottawa.
