Children’s Books with a Meaningful Message

Children’s books have an extraordinary ability to transport young minds to magical worlds, teach essential life lessons, and ignite the fires of imagination. At the heart of children’s literature lies its power to nurture empathy, curiosity, and creativity. Books can serve as a conduit for children to make sense of the world around them, navigating complex emotions and understanding diverse perspectives. Through colorful illustrations and engaging narratives, children’s books instill values, impart knowledge, and spark a lifelong love for reading.

There are so many wonderful children’s books to choose from, and these stories ignite the spark of imagination and sow the seeds of wisdom in young hearts and minds. They stand as testaments to the enduring power of storytelling, guiding children through dreams, fears, and the boundless landscapes of their imagination.

As we approach the holiday season, there’s a timeless magic in giving the gift of books. Books are not merely pages bound together; they are pathways to discovery, empathy, and the boundless wonders of the imagination, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas and the holiday season lingers long after the decorations are put away.

Children’s Books with a Meaningful Message

Hope Beneath The Tree by Kristen Vincent

For a story about the true spirit of the holiday season– Hope Beneath The Tree is a beautiful tale of two children searching for the true meaning of giving. Caroline and Henry find themselves lost in the woods while searching for greenery for their mother’s holiday wreaths. Along the way they meet some forest animals and discover the joy of giving. Kristen Vincent is a local Vermont author too!

Hey, Little Ant by Phillip and Hannah Hoose

Kelley used Hey, Little Ant as a mentor text when teaching about opinion writing to her 3rd and 4th graders. It is a thought-provoking story that asks the reader to consider the perspective of a small ant about to be stepped on by a careless little boy. It weaves in much larger themes of understanding how even our smallest actions affect others.

Thelma the Unicorn by Aaron Blabey

If you have a little one that loves unicorns, Thelma the Unicorn is a wonderful story with a touching message about embracing one’s uniqueness and the true meaning of happiness. Thelma’s journey is a celebration of self-acceptance and the power of staying true to who you are.

The Crown On Your Head by Nancy Tillman

The Crown On Your Head by Nancy Tillman is a classic. Tillman writes about the special crown we all possess from the time we are born. Each one unique, yet beautiful in its own way. The crown follows us through our lifetime and is a reminder of the special gifts and individuality each of us embody. Such a beautiful story to teach your little one about embracing who they are and the love that surrounds them. Check out more of Nancy Tillman’s stories— they are the absolute best!

In My Heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek

Kelley suggested In My Heart, a book she kept in her “mindfullness nook” in her classroom. When students were having a big emotion they could take a break in the nook and choose to color, read or play with a fidget toy for a few minutes. What I love about this story is it celebrates all feelings and the lessons and importance of each one. This is a great story for helping your little ones learn about their feelings in a positive light.

Corduroy by Don Freeman

Corduroy is a classic that we all know and love. Corduroy is the story of a department store stuffed bear and his new friend Lisa, who he is determined to convince his worthiness. In the story, Corduroy adventures around the department store in search of a new button and a friend to call his own. This is such a sweet story about adventure, love, acceptance and friendship.

Your Fantastic Elastic Brain by JoAnn Deak

Another great story for teaching mindfulness, Your Fantastic Elastic Brain shares all about the human brain and it’s connection to our emotions and body. This story has beautiful models and examples to show children how their brain effects what they say and do. For kids that are fascinated with the body and curious to learn more, this is such a fun one to read and learn together!

Ish by Peter H. Reynolds

For little ones that are much too hard on themselves and need a little help seeing their own creativity, Ish is your book! The story about Ramon’s journey with perfectionism and his big sister’s encouragement to see the beauty in the imperfect is wonderful.

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse tells the story of Lilly and her confrontation with her favorite teacher. Lilly doesn’t like being scolded and she must learn to forgive her teacher and see her own fault in the matter. This is a fun story for those overly zealous kiddos who have trouble knowing when it’s time to listen and be considerate of others.

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

The Day You Begin is a beautiful, inspiring and heart-wrenching tale about a little girl at a new school. She must learn to overcome her fear of being different and alone. This book celebrates uniqueness and staying true to who you are. In the end, simply being yourself will attract the people who will love you unconditionally.

Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty

Ada Twist, Scientist is another inspiring tale about a young scientist full of questions, curiosity and wonder. When Ada discovers a scientific mystery at school, she uses the scientific method to solve it. An inspiring and poignant tale for children with dreams of delving into science, technology, engineering and math.

More Favorites:

• Pecan Pie Baby by Jacqueline Woodson
• It Starts with a Seed by Laura Knowles
• The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
• My Mouth is a Volcano by Julia Cook
• What Do You Do With An Idea? by Kobi Yamada
• Stellaluna by Janelle Cannon
• The World Needs Who You Were Made To Be by Joanna Gaines
• The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
• I Am Enough by Grace Byers
• Owl Moon by Jane Yolen