Tom and Pippo make a friend

A parent might reach for this book when preparing a toddler or preschooler for a new social situation, like starting daycare, or after observing their child's hesitation to join in at the playground. It addresses the common shyness young children feel around new peers. The story follows Tom and his toy monkey Pippo as they go to the park. Another child, Zoë, arrives, and after a realistic period of quiet, parallel play, they connect over a shared toy truck and become friends. It beautifully illustrates themes of friendship and building confidence in a low-pressure way. Helen Oxenbury's gentle narrative and expressive illustrations make it perfect for ages 2 to 4, normalizing the slow, observational approach many children take to making new friends.