Inside: Raise kind kids with these engaging children’s books about kindness. Grab one (or five) to enjoy with your family or classroom.
“Who does this belong to?” I said as I pulled a stuffed owl from the back of a cubby. Most of the kids had gone home. Someone would miss their special friend tonight.
“That’s Bianca’s!” My son snatched the owl from my hand and dashed out the classroom door.
He ran across the courtyard, the owl in front of him. Bianca turned and saw him hurtling towards her. The corners of her mouth turned up into a smile as my son placed the owl in her outstretched arms.
“Thank you!” she called as my son raced back to me.
“That was kind wasn’t it, Mama? To bring her owl to her?” My son said, his cheeks red and eyes shining.
“Sure was!” I couldn’t help but smile back.
Moments like this warm my heart. Plus, they inspire me to continue teaching my kids about kindness.
Favorite Children’s Books About Kindness
I often use children’s books about kindness to keep our conversation going. When I read with my kids we talk about the characters, what they do, how they feel – and how their actions affect others. I notice these stories coming out in play – and in our daily lives.
Below, I’ve made a list of our favorite picture books about kindness to share with you. I hope they spark some kindness in your home.
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Kindness Makes Us Strong
by Sophie Beer
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
This vibrant book shows children how to be kind in common situations. My kids ask to read it over and over again.
Should I Share My Ice Cream
by Mo Willems
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
Gerald grapples with a moral dilemma in this hilarious book about friendship. Should he share his ice cream with his best friend? Or enjoy it on his own?
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates
by Ryan T. Higgins
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
Follow Penelope Rex as she makes friends with her new classmates – even though they are all children. This hilarious and unique book is sure to bring on the giggles.
Goodnight, Dragons
by Judith Roth
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
What can you do when faced with grumpy dragons? Make them cozy of course! Hot chocolate helps, too. This whimsical story is perfect for bedtime!
Related: 5 Beautiful Children’s Books about Death
A Sick Day for Amos McGee
by Philip C. Stead
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
Amos visits the animals at the zoo every day. But when he gets a cold and has to stay home, it’s the animal’s turn to visit him.
Good People Everywhere
by Lynea Gillen
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
This book explores some of the many ways people contribute to their communities. It leaves kids with an invitation to be helpers too.
Samson in the Snow
by Philip C. Stead
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
Samson the woolly mammoth unexpectedly finds friendship while caught in a snow storm.
Get Up Stand Up
by Cedella Marley
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
Based on the Bob Marley song, this picture book encourages kids to be courageous and kind.
Related: 30 Inspirational Quotes to Raise Kind and Determined Kids
Thank You, Omu
by Oge Mora
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
Omu’s neighbors follow their noses to her door. She graciously shares her amazing stew with all who come – but what happens when the pot is empty? Will Omu go hungry tonight?
The Digger and the Flower
by Joseph Kuefler
Find it: Bookshop | Amazon
One day the digger makes a miraculous discovery: flowers in the construction yard! The flowers can’t keep growing where they are – but the digger will make sure they live on.
These pictures books teach kindness in a fun and gentle way. Curl up with one – or five – and enjoy them with your kids.
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