Best Behavior(r) Series (Board Books) 14-Book Set by Multiple Authors

Parenting is a beautiful yet challenging journey, especially when teaching toddlers essential social and emotional skills. The Best Behavior® Series (Board Books) 14-Book Set by Multiple Authors is a treasure trove of engaging, developmentally appropriate books designed to help young children navigate manners, emotions, and daily routines. If you're a parent, caregiver, or educator looking for books that combine gentle guidance with vibrant illustrations, this set is a must-have.

But does it live up to the hype? After reading (and re-reading) these books with my toddler, I can confidently say—yes. This review will explore why this series stands out, from its relatable themes to its durable board book format.

---

The Best Behavior® Series doesn’t follow a single narrative but instead offers 14 standalone books, each addressing a different aspect of early childhood behavior. Some standout titles include:

• "Teeth Are Not for Biting" – Helps toddlers understand gentle ways to express frustration.
• "Words Are Not for Hurting" – Encourages kindness in communication.
• "Diapers Are Not Forever" – A supportive guide for potty training.
• "Hands Are Not for Hitting" – Teaches positive ways to use hands.

Each book follows a similar structure: a simple, repetitive narrative paired with bright, expressive illustrations. The stories are short (8-10 pages) but impactful, making them perfect for short attention spans.

---

Since these books are designed for very young children, the "characters" are often generic kids or animals demonstrating behaviors—both positive and negative. This simplicity is intentional, allowing toddlers to see themselves in the scenarios.

For example, in "Feet Are Not for Kicking," a frustrated child learns to use their feet for walking and dancing instead of lashing out. The lack of complex character arcs works in the series' favor—toddlers don’t need intricate backstories to understand the message.

---

The writing style is straightforward, using short sentences and rhythmic repetition—key for early language development. Phrases like "Teeth are not for biting. Ouch! Biting hurts." reinforce the lesson without being preachy.

---

While the series focuses on behavior, the deeper themes include:

• Emotional Regulation – Helping kids name and manage big feelings.
• Empathy & Social Skills – Encouraging kindness and sharing.
• Independence – Guiding kids through milestones like potty training.

These books don’t just tell kids what to do—they explain why certain behaviors matter, fostering emotional intelligence from an early age.

---

As a parent, I’ve seen firsthand how effective these books are. My two-year-old now says, "No biting, gentle hands!" unprompted—proof that the messages stick. The sturdy board pages have survived countless drops and chews, making them perfect for little hands.

One minor critique? Some books ("Screen Time Is Not Forever") feel slightly outdated in our digital-heavy world. Still, the core message—balance—is timeless.

---

Compared to similar series like "Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood" or "Llama Llama", the Best Behavior® Series is more direct and instructional. While Llama Llama uses storytelling to teach lessons, these books get straight to the point—ideal for parents who want clear, actionable guidance.

---

✅ Durable & Toddler-Friendly – Thick board pages withstand rough handling.
✅ Clear, Positive Messaging – Focuses on solutions, not just "no."
✅ Wide Range of Topics – Covers everything from sharing to screen time.

❌ Some Repetitiveness – The formula works, but a little variety would help.
❌ Limited Diversity – Illustrations could be more inclusive.

---

This set is ideal for:

• Parents of toddlers (1-4 years old)
• Preschool teachers
• Childcare providers
• Gift-givers (Baby showers, birthdays, etc.)

If you want to instill kindness, patience, and self-regulation early on, this series is a fantastic investment.

---

Some lines that stuck with me (and my toddler):

• "Words are for helping, not for hurting."
• "Diapers are not forever. Big kids use the potty!"
• "Take a deep breath and count to four. I can calm down and try once more."

---

While not historically rooted, these books reflect modern parenting trends—gentle discipline, emotional intelligence, and positive reinforcement. They align with Montessori and positive parenting philosophies, making them a favorite among millennial parents.

---

The Best Behavior® Series is more than just a set of books—it’s a toolkit for raising kind, confident kids. The lessons are simple but profound, and the engaging format ensures toddlers actually want to listen.

If you’re looking for a way to teach manners, emotional regulation, and daily routines without frustration, this series is a must-buy.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

---

• Which behavior do you struggle with most when parenting toddlers?
• Have you tried other behavior-focused books? How do they compare?
• What’s your favorite book in this series, and why?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments! Happy reading (and parenting)! 📚💛

Get this book on Amazon

For more great reviews and book recommendations, visit Books By Order.

For more great reviews, visit Book Book Owl.