Kindness is a trait that we all value, and if we can teach our children to be kind, we can help build a better and more compassionate world. One of the best ways to cultivate kindness in children is by reading books that promote kindness, empathy, and ethics. In this blog, we'll share the best children's books about kindness that you can read with your kids to teach them the value of compassion and empathy.
Best Children’s Books About Kindness
1) How Kind! – Mary Murphy (Age 1-3)
In this cute board book, animals show kindness to each other in playful ways, such as retrieving a hat for a friend or sharing a snack. Through their interactions, the animals teach kids about compassion, generosity, and friendship.
2) The Rabbit Listened – Cori Doerrfeld (Age 3-5)
This powerful book demonstrates the value of listening in times of need. When a young boy feels sad, all the animals offer him different advice, but it's the quiet, attentive rabbit who listens and comforts him in his sorrow.
3) Each Kindness – Jacqueline Woodson (Age 5-8)
This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a girl who learns to appreciate the value of kindness and the importance of treating everyone with respect, compassion, and dignity. It's a great reminder that every small act of kindness can make a big difference.
4) The Invisible Boy – Trudy Ludwig (Age 5-8)
This book is about a boy named Brian, who feels invisible to his classmates. When a new student arrives, she notices Brian and befriends him, showing him that everyone has something valuable to offer, and we should never judge people by their appearance.
5) Wonder – R.J. Palacio (Age 8-12)
This beloved middle-grade novel is about a boy named August, who has facial differences and must navigate the challenges of attending school for the first time. Despite the cruelty and discrimination he faces, August learns to be kind and empathetic, inspiring his classmates to do the same.
6) What Do You Do With a Chance? – Kobi Yamada (Age 4-8)
This stunningly illustrated book tells the story of a young boy who learns to embrace opportunity and take chances, despite feeling apprehensive and uncertain. It's an excellent lesson in courage, risk-taking, and perseverance.
7) Have You Filled a Bucket Today? – Carol McCloud (Age 4-8)
This popular book teaches kids about the importance of filling other people's metaphorical buckets with kindness, love, and encouragement. The concept is simple yet profound, and it's a great way to teach children about empathy and compassion.
8) Last Stop on Market Street – Matt De La Pena (Age 3-5)
This award-winning book is about a young boy named CJ, who takes a bus ride across town with his grandmother. Along the way, they meet a variety of people and learn valuable lessons about community, gratitude, and kindness.
9) The Kindness Book – Todd Parr (Age 3-7)
This colorful book is filled with positive affirmations and encouraging words that promote kindness, empathy, and compassion. It's a great way to inspire children to be kind and caring to others.
10) The One and Only Ivan – Katherine Applegate (Age 8-12)
This beautiful novel is about a gorilla named Ivan, who lives in a cage in a shopping mall and dreams of a life in the wild. With courage, kindness, and empathy, Ivan must find a way to protect and care for his animal friends and help them escape to a better life.
11) I Am Peace – Susan Verde (Age 4-8)
This book is about a young girl who discovers the power of mindfulness and inner peace. With simple yet powerful language and illustrations, the book teaches kids about meditation, compassion, and self-awareness.
Teaching kindness to children is crucial, and reading books that promote kindness, empathy, and ethics is an effective way to instill these values. By fostering a love of reading and modeling compassion and empathy in our own lives, we can help our children become kind and caring individuals who make the world a better place. So, pick up one of these books, curl up with your kids, and embark on a journey of kindness, understanding, and compassion.