Kindergarten boy books: 16 Best Books to Get Kindergartners Reading
The 50 Best Kindergarten Books
By Emma Singer
Published Jun 29, 2020
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Wrangling your energetic kindergartener for quiet reading time at home every day can be…rough. But it’s worth doing. Why? “Reading to your kindergartener as much as possible will increase the probability of your child’s school success,” says Denise Daniels, RN, MS, child development expert and creator of the Moodsters. “It helps children’s brain development and builds key language and social skills. It also fosters curiosity and communication skills,” she adds. Yep, reading boasts an impressive list of benefits, and this is especially true if you choose the right material. Daniels says kindergartners profit most from books with themes that “help children develop morals, empathy, social and emotional learning, and resiliency skills. ..and expose children to diversity.” But don’t worry if you don’t have time to vet every book in the children’s section yourself—we’ve rounded up 50 books for kindergarteners that they’re guaranteed to love.
Hyperion Books for Children
1.
waiting Is Not Easy By Mo Willems
High drama, big print and plenty of humor combine in this story about navigating friendship and practicing patience. Little kids will want to hear it again and again…and that’s OK by us, because it’s truly a pleasure to read.
$5 at Amazon
Grow Grit Press LLC
2.
anxious Ninja By Mary Ninh
An anxious ninja finds his big feelings to be debilitating until a friend offers up some advice on how to manage emotions and find courage. This read delivers social-emotional learning with a side of laughter—and a powerful message about peer connections that every kid should hear.
$11 at Amazon
Dial Books
3.
dragons Love Tacos By Adam Rubin
A big dose of humor in a short book about friendship.
Opt for this kid-favorite about, well, dragons who love tacos, and story time will be anything but boring.
$10 at Amazon
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
4.
alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day By Judith Viorst
This classic story about resilience and learning how to cope when nothing seems to work out right is highly relatable for readers of all ages, but especially for kindergarteners who are just learning how to keep their cool in the face of disappointment.
$7 at Amazon
G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
5.
firebird By Misty Copeland
Penned by the first African American female principal dancer in the prestigious American Ballet Theater, this gripping read tells the story of a young girl who doubts her own ability to reach the same heights that Misty has done. Throughout the book, Misty encourages her to work hard so that she can succeed—and become Firebird.
$14 at Amazon
Greenwillow Books; 50th Anniversary ed.
edition
6.
amelia Bedelia By Peggy Parish
Amelia Bedelia has a hard time with figures of speech (like using a pen and paper to “draw” the drapes), but kids who read the book certainly will not. The simple words make this one a good candidate for early phonics instruction and the story will make your little one double over with laughter…literally.
$12 at Amazon
Dial Books
7.
my Heart By Corinna Luyken
Beautiful illustrations take center stage in this poignant story about emotional autonomy. The hidden heart motif on every page promises to keep kids engaged in the soothing narrative, which covers the entire spectrum of feelings.
$12 at Amazon
Dial Books
8.
the Book With No Pictures By B.j. Novak
Get ready to be goofy, parents, because The Book With No Pictures will make you appear ridiculous whether you like it or not. Wildly funny and incredibly clever, this book does a bang-up job of conveying the power of the written word—and we promise your kid will never tire of reading it (or making you read it out loud).
$9 at Amazon
Balzer + Bray
9.
i Am Enough By Grace Byers
Striking art and melodic verses deliver an empowering message on inclusivity, self-love and respect for others in this New York Times’ bestseller that brings the beauty of diversity to the forefront for young children.
$13 at Amazon
Sourcebooks Wonderland
10.
how To Catch A Mermaid By Adam Wallace
Upbeat, cheerful rhyming makes this catchy adventure story fun and fast to read, although children will likely want to linger on each page to take in the vibrant, intricate illustrations.
$6 at Amazon
Viking Books for Young Readers
11.
meet Me At The Moon By Gianna Marino
When a mama elephant has to leave her baby to “ask the skies for rain,” she reassures her little one by telling him to feel the warmth of her love in the sun and listen for it in the wind. This touching book boasts beautiful depictions of the African plains and the story, which ends with a moving mother-child reunion, is sure to soothe any child suffering from back-to-school separation blues.
$18 at Amazon
Philomel Books
12.
the Day The Crayons Quit By Oliver Jeffers
School supplies come to life in the pages of this witty story about disgruntled crayons. This crowd-pleaser will develop your own kid’s sense of humor while nourishing the young imagination—and it’s sure to provoke laughter from parent and child alike.
$9 at Amazon
G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
13.
last Stop On Market Street By Matt De La Peña
The list of awards and accolades earned by this book about giving back may well be longer than the book itself. The powerful message about the common good that comes through the pages of this soulful story is enhanced by vibrant illustrations of an urban setting. This library staple is a celebration of diversity that will teach your child the importance of doing a good deed every day.
$11 at Amazon
Candlewick
14.
alma And How She Got Her Name By Juana Martinez-neal
Alma has a lot of names—too many if you ask her.
Or at least that’s what she thinks when we first meet her. But by the end of the book and after a journey into the past, Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela loves knowing where all of her beautiful names came from.
$13 at Amazon
Hyperion Books for Children
15.
because By Mo Willems
The lyrical prose Willems pens in this moving read is a departure from the sparse yet delightfully funny writing that characterizes many of his other children’s books, but the final product is just as exciting. This ode to the transformative power of music is accompanied by stunning illustrations—a combination that will mesmerize and inspire young readers (and pull on the heartstrings of parents).
$12 at Amazon
Nancy Paulsen Books
16.
the King Of Kindergarten By derrick Barnes
Got a kid with first-day jitters? This cheerful story will get her ready—and excited—for going to school. And sure, there are plenty of books that you could read to your reluctant kindergartener to let her know that it’s all going to be OK, but this one takes the message one step further by saying, ”You’ve totally got this”
Gecko Press
17.
detective Gordon: The First Case By Ulf Nilsson
A great introduction to chapter books, Detective Gordon is an age-appropriate and gripping whodunit adventure that kindergarteners will be excited to dive back into every day. Plus, this book also benefits from colorful illustrations from cover to cover, ensuring that even easily-distracted kids don’t lose the plot.
$17 at Amazon
Random House Books for Young Readers
18.
junie B. Jones And The Stupid Smelly Bus By Barbara Park
A chapter book for young readers told from the perspective of a sassy, uproariously funny, and charmingly relatable peer. This New York Times bestseller has been turning out bookworms for a quarter of a century, because no one can resist the big personality of kindergarten kid Junie B. Jones.
$5 at Amazon
New Paige Press
19.
the Bear And The Fern By Jay Miletsky
Banish first day butterflies with this heartwarming tale of an offbeat friendship formed between a stuffed bear and his houseplant roommate—companions who empower one another to explore their surroundings and confront their fears.
The wholesome message plays out to a beautiful, rhyming tune, and the lyrics include a few prized vocabulary words for good measure.
$14 at Amazon
Bloomsbury USA Childrens
20.
i Got The Rhythm By Connie Schofield-morrison
Young kids will be thrilled by this upbeat book about a little girl who, inspired by the sounds of the city, boogies her way to the center of town. With her passion, energy and cool moves, the little girl starts a spontaneous dance party, inspiring all the kids in the city to join the fun. Chances are your little one will want to bop to the beat, too, after this charming read.
$12 at Amazon
Peachtree Publishing Company
21.
kalinka And Grakkle By Julie Paschkis
With a subdued and artful dose of humor, Paschkis tells the story of a bird and a beast who just can’t understand each other’s habits and needs. Mutual acceptance is finally reached once both parties have made a tough emotional journey full of frustration and learned to listen rather than control.
This light-hearted book invites laughter, while simultaneously familiarizing kindergarteners with the social-emotional learning that lies ahead.
$18 at Amazon
Henry Holt and Co.
22.
pablo Neruda: Poet Of The People By Monica Brown
Young children are introduced to poetry and culture in this book that sings the praises of Pablo Neruda, while shining a spotlight on the empathic spirit behind his work. Magical and touching, Brown’s storytelling will spark creativity, and may well inspire a new generation of poets.
$18 at Amazon
Puffin Books
23.
the Knight And The Dragon By Tomie De Paola
A tongue-in-cheek narrative about a knight and dragon that have to prepare for a duel by going to the library, because neither knows the first thing about fighting. Fortunately, there’s no stand-off at the end of this fairytale—instead the knight and dragon snub tradition and decide to collaborate on a new, exciting project, which they pull off with the aid of more books and a princess librarian to guide their research.
$7 at Amazon
Candlewick Press (MA)
24.
jabari Jumps By Gaia Cornwall
A patient, supportive father stands by his son and helps gently guide him in this story of a young boy who has all the skills to jump off a diving board, but can’t summon the courage to walk the plank. Kids of all ages will relate to and feel validated by this book that revolves around the main character’s inner struggle and ultimate victory over his own fears.
Buy It ($11)
Random House Books for Young Readers
25.
go, Dog. Go! By P.d. Eastman
Seuss-like in style and aesthetic, this classic book will help pre-K graduates master prepositional phrases, and the antics performed by the group of pups is basically a guarantee that the education is full of entertainment to boot.
$5 at Amazon
Roaring Brook Press
26.
do Not Lick This Book By Idan Ben-barak
Kindergarteners are known for questionable instincts when it comes to hygiene, but this book might just spare you a school year of endless illness.
Written by a microbiologist with a good sense of humor, this book teaches kids all about germs (and how not to spread them) with an interactive format that makes for an undeniably fun read.
$11 at Amazon
Chronicle Books
27.
i Wrote You A Note By Lizi Boyd
Middle school teachers might report note passing as a problem but in kindergarten, literacy is the name of the game so no one will be upset when this book inspires your kid to practice writing letters with a classroom pen pal.
$15 at Amazon
Running Press Kids
28.
pink Is For Boys By Robb Pearlman
Gender stereotypes are among the unwritten, outdated rules that can start stifling children’s self-expression as soon as kindergarten begins (if not earlier). Blow the lid off all that crap with a book that encourages boys who want to wear pink and girls who like to play basketball. Bottom line: Both sexes will walk away from story time feeling empowered to explore their interests and expand their minds.
$12 at Amazon
Little, Brown and Company
29.
go Away, Big Green Monster By Ed Emberley
By kindergarten, many little ones have stopped napping and most schools don’t carve out a space in the schedule for children that want a midday snooze, so a good night’s sleep is a must. Nip bedtime drama in the bud and ease the transition to a nap-free school day with a sweet and silly book that will help your child put his nighttime fears to bed.
$11 at Amazon
Magination Press
30.
this Day In June By Gayle E. Pitman
Looking for an age-appropriate way to address questions on sexual orientation and gender identity? This inclusive book tells the tale of a fun pride celebration and also includes helpful information for parents plus a reading guide full of LGBTQ+ history and culture.
$9 at Amazon
Viking Books for Young Readers
31.
aberdeen By Stacey Previn
A series of unexpected events occur when a lovable mouse unwittingly embarks on an adventure and ends up charting new territory.
But it’s Aberdeen’s efforts to find his way back home that imbue the story with a requisite degree of intrigue to keep restless kindergarteners glued to their seats.
$20 at Amazon
Dial Books
32.
my Friend Maggie By Hannah E. Harrison
Kids can be mean, which is why every kindergartener needs a primer from Paula, who has to learn some tough lessons about friendship and integrity before she figures out how to stand up to a bully in defense of her bestie Maggie. This heartwarming story is a must-read that teaches schoolyard newbies how to do the right thing as they form and navigate new relationships with peers.
$14 at Amazon
Dial Books
33.
bernice Gets Carried Away By Hannah E. Harrison
Lively animal portraits bring the characters to life in this book that helps kids comprehend the indispensable life skill of being able to recover from a bad mood. Bernice starts off with a me-first attitude that spoils her own fun at a friend’s birthday bash, so much so that she gets carried away.
..literally, by balloons. With a bit of effort, she finds her way back to the party at last—and becomes the life of it.
$17 at Amazon
Dial
34.
the Little Red Fish By Tae-eun Yoo
Take your child on a trip to the realm of magical realism with this Murakami-esque story of a boy who, after falling asleep in the library, sets out to explore the stacks in search of his lost little red fish. Whimsical and refreshing, this book will enthrall readers of all ages.
$9 at Amazon
Dial Books
35.
three Bears In A Boat By David Soman
Three bears break mama bear’s precious seashell keepsake and embark on an epic adventure to make things right by finding her a new special shell. The rough seas leave the siblings wondering if they can make it back home safely…and if they should have, perhaps, just come clean about the accident instead. The lesson in accountability is effective without being heavy-handed, and the ending is happy, of course.
$14 at Amazon
Roaring Brook Press
36.
after The Fall (how Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again) By Dan Santat
Get back on the horse that bucked you—that’s the theme of this uplifting follow-up story that details the aftermath (and emotional fallout) of Humpty Dumpty’s famously tragic fall. Spoiler alert: Despite his morbid nursery rhyme fate, the once pitifully fragile character does indeed face his fear of heights and gets a taste of triumph in this kid-friendly page-turner.
$10 at Amazon
HarperCollins
37.
mae Among The Stars By Roda Ahmed
A tale about real-life astronaut Mae Jemison, this book shines a light on women in STEM and the moral of the story couldn’t be better: “If you believe it, and work hard for it, anything is possible.”
$12 at Amazon
Compendium Inc
38.
what Do You Do With An Idea? By Kobi Yamada
This book revolves around a seemingly simple question, explored with an extended metaphor that sparks creativity and big thinking in small people.
The answer is not so straightforward, though, and the narrative skillfully covers all the obstacles children face when taking a chance (fear of the unknown, aversion to failure, and embarrassment, to name a few). The message is spot-on and the illustrations are stripped-down in the most striking way.
Buy It ($11)
Harper Collins
39.
dear Girl By Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Take a page out of this book and then read it to your daughter as a confidence-building reminder of her inherent worth. Every little girl should hear and relish this ode to the unbreachable beauty, strength and potential she has within—and this winner deserves its place on the bookshelves of boys, too, so they can grow up to be respectful men.
Buy It ($9)
Chronicle Books
40.
rude Cakes By Rowboat Watkins
Give your kid a leg up on classroom (and real world) etiquette with this playful story about a slice of cake that seemingly misplaced its manners. An amusing read that reminds children that no mistake is so grievous, it can’t be corrected with a little attitude adjustment.
Buy It ($11)
Houghton Mifflin
41.
stick And Stone By Beth Ferry
Anti-bullying themes are an understated but important component in this story of Stick and Stone and the the heroic choices they make to develop and maintain their friendship. A heartwarming message about loyalty and virtue—related with catchy, rhyming prose—this book is a major asset when it comes to encouraging the social-emotional learning that goes into any enduring childhood bond.
Buy It ($8)
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
42.
sulwe By Lupita Nyong’o
As soon as Sulwe realizes her skin is darker than that of her classmates, and even her own family, she struggles with self-acceptance…until she takes an eye-opening, magical journey into the midnight-black night sky. Her whimsical travels conclude with an invaluable realization: What made her feel uncomfortably different is, in fact, what makes her uniquely beautiful. The best antidote to racism comes from honest, early childhood education—consider this breathtaking book a starter course that every kindergartener needs.
$16 at Amazon
Boundless Movement LLC
43.
my Magical Choices By Becky Cummings
Emotional autonomy is the solution to nearly every bout of angst (at any age) as it delivers one from boredom, frustration and the general feeling of powerlessness that so often plagues childhood. Cummings gets to the heart of the matter in her engaging book, which reads like self-help for pint-sized people, replete with alluring illustrations and a positive message to kids: You can control your own happiness.
$14 at Amazon
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
44.
that Neighbor Kid By Daniel Miyares
Shy kiddos might be inclined to hide in their shells, especially in the context of a noisy classroom with more boisterous, extroverted peers—but with a little extra nudge during reading time, even a shrinking violet can find the courage to tap a classmate on the shoulder and strike up a friendship. That Neighbor Kid throws timidity out the window in favor of a brave desire to connect and build something new.
$12 at Amazon
Disney-Hyperion
45.
we Don’t Eat Our Classmates By Ryan T. Higgins
Antisocial tendencies are kind of the norm in a kindergarten classroom, which is why kids and parents alike will appreciate this cheeky story about a student struggling with competing desires. Should Penelope Rex eat or befriend her classmates? The answer is fairly obvious (and she gets there in the end) but young readers will delight in a moral conundrum that pokes fun at their own worst instincts as they learn the dos and don’ts of classroom conduct.
$11 at Amazon
Kokila
46.
hair Love By Matthew A. Cherry
This beautiful story explores a dynamic that you don’t often see in children’s books: a father in charge of his daughter’s care (which includes doing her hair). Read this celebration of fatherly love and natural hair with your kid first, then check out the Academy Award-winning short film here.
$10 at Amazon
Monsters In My Head LLC
47.
don’t Feed The Worrybug By Andi Green
The first day of big kid school is a big deal, so if your child is feeling nervous, help her find solace in a book. In this frank and relatable story, Wince’s “worry bug” starts off as a small thing that grows into a beast the more he frets. We’ve all been there, and it’s never too soon to give your child a head start on self-care with a story that places a premium on open communication about emotions.
$6 at Amazon
Philomel Books
48.
here We Are: Notes For Living On Planet Earth By Oliver Jeffers
A guide to help small people find their place in a larger-than-life world, Jeffers’ celebration of humanity is chock full of valuable lessons. The awe-inspiring backdrop against which the wisdom unfolds makes for a captivating read that is certain to inspire a sense of wonder in any child.
$12 at Amazon
Northsouth Books
49.
frida Kahlo And Her Animalitos By Monica Brown
The celebrated and supremely talented Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo, is the subject of this cultural inquiry and she is examined through a decidedly kid-friendly lens, focusing on a love of living things.
Pair this easy and engaging read with a trip to an art museum and your little one will feel the creative juices flowing.
Buy It ($14)
Nancy Paulsen Books
50.
the Day You Begin By Jacqueline Woodson
National Book Award winning author Jacqueline Woodson and Pura Belpré Illustrator Award winner Rafael López collaborated to craft this stunning children’s book that touches on the topics of inclusivity, self-esteem and the importance of human connection. Time to turn off the screens and engage in a conversation about what really matters—and as luck would have it, the script has already been beautifully written.
$11 at Amazon
Emma Singer
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Emma Singer is a freelance contributing editor and writer at PureWow who has over 7 years of professional proofreading, copyediting and writing experience. At PureWow, she covers…
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25 Best Kindergarten Books To Read: Complete List For Teachers
The best kindergarten books to read aloud and by oneself can range widely from fictional tales to books with interesting facts.
While students may have preferences in terms of what genre they love, you can encourage them to expand their reading horizons by introducing them to a diverse range of books.
To start with, you can reference a reading framework to measure your student’s reading level, such as the Lexile score, and add books from those levels to your class library or reading list. Books that meet your students’ reading level can help foster a love for reading as they gain confidence in their reading ability.
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite books that are perfect for kindergarten readers. You can open a chapter from any of these books and let your kindergarteners immerse themselves in these new worlds. While many of these have unique stories, they are all designed to teach students valuable lessons such as courage, determination, hard work, and leadership.
Here are kindergarten reading games to educate and engage your kids!
The 25 Best Kindergarten Books To Read
Reading can bring immense joy to young readers as they explore new worlds and discover new ways of thinking.
You can introduce a wide range of books that can be relevant to their experiences and give them a sense of direction in their reading journeys. The books to read to kindergarten students are the ones that they can remember for years.
SplashLearn inspires lifelong curiosity with its game-based PreK-5 learning program loved by over 40 million children. With over 4,000 fun games and activities, it’s the perfect balance of learning and play for your little one.
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1. Waiting Is Not Easy by Mo Willems
This storybook for kindergarten children revolves around the dynamics of Gerald and Piggie, and their approach to asking for things. While one is patient, the other is demanding, making their friendship unique and full of twists and turns.
Category – Humor, Fiction
Takeaways – The simplicity of waiting rather than throwing a tantrum
Special Note – You can role play as the characters and speak aloud sentences for maximum engagement.
2. If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Joffe Numeroff
This engaging tale of the mouse talks about what happens if you take a mouse to school. It teaches cause and effect while exploring everything that waits for the boy and the mouse at school. It is one of the best books to read in kindergarten to instill equal parts confidence and empathy.
Category – Fiction
Takeaways – Courage and kindness go a long way
Special Note – This book is perfect for kids that may feel anxious on their first day of school
3. Firebird by Misty Copeland
Misty Copeland, the distinguished ballet performer for the American Ballet Theater, takes young readers on a journey to reaching the stars. She describes a blueprint for young girls to strengthen their faith in themselves while becoming as fearless as the Firebird.
Category – Fiction
Takeaways – The rewards of hard work shine through
Special Note – The book can be used as a guide on achieving long-term goals for kids
Related Reading: Popular Nonfiction Books for Kids to Read & Cherish
4.
I Am Enough by Grace Byers
It is a great book to read in kindergarten and practice reading aloud in class, as it empowers young women around the world to strengthen their self-esteem. “Like the trees, I’m here to grow. Like the mountains, here to stand”.
Category – Fiction
Takeaways – Kindness and self-esteem will take you everywhere
Special Note – The book is excellent for young girls to explore their inner gifts
5. The Maggie B by Irene Haas
One of the best books for kindergarten readers, The Maggie B is a tale of a young girl who goes on a magical adventure. It focuses on the power of courage and adventure-seeking when you face the unknown.
Category – Classic
Takeaways – Leadership in times of adventure is essential.
Special Note – You can use the illustrations in the book as a guide to the text.
6. May I Bring a Friend? By Beatrice Schenk de Regniers
This classic kindergartener book revolves around a child who is invited by royalty to tea. It is a visual masterpiece in its design and has lessons that children can use for years. You can start by exploring the underlying themes within the book.
Category – Classics
Takeaways – Humility, compassion, and kindness are traits all kids should imbibe
Special Note – You can sing aloud the rhyming sentences in the class
7. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
Another classic tale for kindergarten children, the book focuses on how anger can impact our own sense of wellness and affects those around us. Max wears a wolf suit and causes chaos within his home and his surroundings, eventually going outwards to seek the wild.
Category – Picture book, Classics
Takeaways – The role of anger in the lives of young kids
Special Note – You can focus on teaching the importance of empathy and compassion
8.
Yo! Yes? by Chris Raschka
The book focuses on how easy it is to make friendships that can last a lifetime. Cultural differences can be overcome through friendship, showcasing the power of understanding, compassion, and kindness.
Category – Picture book
Takeaways – Similarities and differences between cultures are explored in a simple way
Special Note – You can role-play the characters in the book for maximum impact
9. Cleversticks by Bernard Ashley
This book for kindergarten readers explores how each child can do something special in their field of interest and become better at it. It talks about how school can be a place of magical adventures, where each child can find something unique to focus on.
Category – Picture book
Takeaways – It focuses on how struggles can be overcome to achieve success
Special Note – Groups can be given different tasks to help them grow
10.
David Goes to School by David Shannon
Young David causes havoc in this tale, disobeying instructions, being noisy, and writing on desks. David then realizes the importance of being a part of a community and starts to change his behavior to fit in with everyone else.
Category – Fiction
Takeaways – David’s transformation can be an example for all kids
Special Note – You can introduce this book when kids are being unruly and rude in class
11. How Do Dinosaurs Go to School? by Jane Yolen
The storybook for kindergarten children describes the journeys of dinosaurs as they enter their first year of school. It reflects many of the emotions that kids feel when they start school and leaves children with a sense of courage, hope, and perseverance.
Category – Picture book
Takeaways – The book’s humorous takes on everyday school activities can help kids adjust to school
Special Note – You can read aloud certain sections with dinosaur sounds
12.
Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry
Captain Swashby’s journey to opening up and being friends with his new neighbors is a relatable theme that all kids can enjoy reading. The role of friendship, family, and compassion are explored in this classic tale.
Category – Classic
Takeaways – By focusing on compassion, the tale connects generations with a common theme
Special Note – The book is great to explore phonics, sight words, etc.
13. Out the Door by Christy Hale
Out the Door focuses on a child’s journey from their home to school. It helps kids become more independent, courageous, and resilient as they traverse busy streets, crowded places, and confusing intersections.
Category – Classic, Picture book
Takeaways – The book’s empowerment theme resonates with young readers
Special Note – You can be descriptive about the visuals in the book when exploring themes
14.
T. Rexes Can’t Tie Their Shoes by Anna Lazowski
The book revolves around the challenges that different animals face when doing everyday things. It shows strength, perseverance, and grit when animals continue to try things that they are not good at. It’s a light and casual read that will have children hooked, and kindergarten books to read can be for fun and pastime, too.
Category – Funny
Takeaways – Kids should always try their best and focus on improving their skills
Special Note – You can emphasize how different characters in the book refuse to give up
Related Reading: How Phonological Awareness Helps Kids Develop Early Reading & Writing Skills
15. Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora
One of the best books for kindergarten students – Thank you Omu! focuses on how generosity is reciprocated multiple times.
The gifts given by the lady were impactful to her community, leading the community to give her gifts in return.
Category – Picture book
Takeaways – The gift of giving is a key theme underlying the narrative
Special Note – You can talk about similar themes in kids’ everyday lives and how giving feels good
16. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
This New York Times bestseller talks about how everyone is welcome in school and how everyone can explore their interests equally. It goes into more detail on how large-scale communities are built through diverse ideas, cultures, and backgrounds.
Category – Fiction, Picture book
Takeaways – Diversity is a key theme in the book, which is a great lesson for kids
Special Note – You can give real-life examples of how diversity benefits different jobs, industries, countries, etc.
17. Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Wemberly is always worried about getting hurt, falling ill, and other hypothetical situations. You can unpack the demerits of constantly worrying and how the world can be a joyful place to meet new people and do new things.
Category – Fiction
Takeaways – The role of fear and courage are expressed in this book
Special Note – You can alleviate the fear of school by reading snippets from this book
18. Kindergarten Rocks! by Katie Davis
The book Kindergarten Rocks! is a timeless classic that covers ground on how kids may feel when starting kindergarten. The feelings of anxiousness, fear of the unknown, and social nervousness, are described through illustrations and rich narratives.
Category – Classic, Picture book
Takeaways – The book focuses on early anxiousness when starting kindergarten
Special Note – You can make your students feel at ease with this one
19.
The Three Little Fish and the Big Bad Shark by Ken Geist
This feel-good adventure of fish and sharks takes students through the deeply engaging journey of young adults and how they face multiple challenges as they grow older. The shark follows the little fish everywhere and eventually gives up, with the fish living happily ever after.
Category – Picture book
Takeaways – This book focuses on the value of trying to find a way
Special Note – Kids can learn about how helping each other out is important for all animals
20. What Does It Mean to be Kind? by Rana DiOrio
The book captures what it takes to be kind and how one can transform an entire community through kindness. The impact of kindness and how it can spread to other people is also a key theme explored in the book.
Category – Picture book
Takeaways – The value of kindness and how it can evolve thought is a critical theme
Special Note – You can leverage the book to introduce empathy as a concept in class
21.
I Don’t Want to Be a Frog by Dev Petty
The immersive and illustrative book features a young frog who wants to change who he is because he doesn’t like himself any longer. The book focuses on the dynamics of nature, self-acceptance, and appreciation for differences in people.
Category – Picture book
Takeaways – A fun adventure narrative that empowers kids to be themselves
Special Note – You can use toys and props when reading along
22. What Color Is Night? by Grant Snider
If you’re looking for metaphor-rich and adventurous kindergarten books to read, this book takes readers on a journey into the night. The vivid descriptions of how the world changes at night captivate even the youngest readers, making this a must-read for students.
Category – Picture book
Takeaways – The night evolves into darkness, with a bright cloud always around the corner
Special Note – You can use this book as a reference guide to art class as well
23.
Locomotive by Brian Floca
The book takes children on an adventure across the country, through the fascinating means of transportation at the time – trains! Many of the intricacies of locomotives are explored through a fictional tale that captures the attention immediately.
Category – Historical Fiction, Picture book
Takeaways – The advancement of technology and culture are a key area of exploration in the book.
Special Note – This is a great book for kindergarten students when introducing American history.
24. Bach to the Rescue by Tom Angleberger
An interesting tale of how Bach could have invented some of the most brilliant pieces of music, the book extracts from the composer’s journey and simplifies it for younger audiences. You can read this book aloud and introduce concepts such as confidence, perseverance, hard work, etc.
Category – Historical Fiction, Picture book
Takeaways – The challenges that a young Bach faced can be inspirational for younger generations.
Special Note – You can introduce this book as a precursor to the evolution of music worldwide.
25. A Picture Book of Harriet Tubman by David A. Adler
Harriet Tubman’s inspiring journey is captured visually through the book, sharing accounts of her heroic deeds in a manner that is readable by younger children. Her courage, determination, and grit are expressed throughout the passages, serving as a great example for kids.
Category – History
Takeaways – The book focuses on her journey and highlights her courage when facing challenges.
Special Note – The book can serve as a guide on building inner strength among younger children.
Explore more online educational resources and printable worksheets for kids that will help with their learning experience and make them smarter.
Related Reading: How to Teach Reading to Kids: Best Strategies for Parents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if a book is right for my kindergarten students?
A key factor in knowing if a book is suitable for your students, apart from reading levels, is to gauge engagement. If your class is drifting away or showing a lack of concentration, it is ideal to try another book.
What is the reading level of a 5-year-old kindergartner?
Level-A reading and basic Lexile-Band reading are generally regarded as the appropriate categories of leveled reading books for kindergarten students. At this level, illustrations are present at regular intervals to help the reader figure out where the story is heading. Sentences in leveld books are usually repetitive. using only one or two syllable words, making them the best books to read for kindergarten.
What genre of books is ideal for kindergarten kids?
There is no single genre that is right for kids.
However, it is essential to diversify when it comes to reading. Historical novels, comedic books, classic tales, and picture books should be used throughout the year. You can also get them kindergarten books to read online so they can access multiple genres.
The kid goes to the garden. Books for the adaptation of the child and his parents
Adaptation to kindergarten is now necessarily told at parent-teacher meetings before the first of September. Everyone is included in the process: psychologists, educators and parents.
A small child experiences real great stress, because he has to change his usual home environment for a new environment. But parents, whose experiences are passed on to children, are no less worried.
Experts advise adults to “breathe in and out” and let go of the situation a little to begin with. In most cases, fears are dictated by the unknown, which is quite realistic to overcome with the help of books that explain, encourage and support.
All about kindergarten for parents
What does a child need in kindergarten, what is his daily routine, how is interaction with teachers built? All these questions are asked by parents who first encounter an educational institution. The books “The child goes to kindergarten” by the publishing house “Sphere” and “It’s time to go to kindergarten. Self-instruction manual for parents” published by “Phoenix” will help to dispel fears and doubts, and at the same time will give detailed answers to the questions: how to choose a kindergarten? what professionals work in the garden? what will the child be taught?
It would seem that the documents for the garden have been submitted, organizational issues have been resolved, but the excitement remains. What if the child in the garden does not like it? Your own negative experiences in childhood can also increase anxiety. Then you should turn to books written by experienced psychologists, especially for parents. The book “Adaptation to kindergarten without problems.
A Practical Guide for Parents” contains a step-by-step plan of action and an analysis of the mistakes that parents often make during the adaptation period.
About the book “I don’t want to go to kindergarten”
It is believed that adaptation to the kindergarten lasts from two weeks to one and a half months. But sometimes it takes even longer to get used to, and the family is faced with the “bad” behavior of the baby. What to do if picking up a child from kindergarten is not possible? The book “I don’t want to go to kindergarten” is just for such parents. The publication comes with a set of five psychological fairy tales, a walking game and an amulet toy that you can take with you to kindergarten.
Stories and tales about the kindergarten for children
When a child is read a book, he identifies himself with a hero, whether it is a shy bunny or the same kid who loves mom and dad. Fiction for children has a therapeutic effect, because they describe feelings exactly like him and situations that are so similar to those that happen to him!
So, a boy named Vovka, the hero of the book by Tatyana Rabtseva, is very afraid to go to kindergarten.
How will he be alone without his mother? And it also seems to Vovka that the garden is “grandfather’s”, which means that he will have to sit with his grandfathers all day. But everything turns out differently. At first, Vovka is really a little embarrassed and scared, but curiosity is stronger, and soon Vovka finds friends, and the kindergarten becomes a place of real adventure!
“Fox Masya goes to kindergarten” – another help book for preparing a child was written by a practicing fairy tale therapist Irina Terentyeva. Here are collected fascinating tales about the fox Masya and his friends, as well as interesting tasks that the baby can complete on his own or with the help of his parents.
Illustrations for the books “Vovka Goes to Kindergarten” and “Masya the Fox Goes to Kindergarten”
By the way, books with tasks and stickers, coloring pages dedicated to the theme of kindergarten, interaction with friends, rules of conduct and daily routine are a great addition to fairy tales.
One of these “Let’s go to kindergarten!” about Teddy bear with stickers and dominoes.
When to read kindergarten books to your child? The earlier the better. After all, the main task of such books is the gradual preparation of the baby for a new regime, new friends and new activities. But the most important thing, which psychologists and teachers tirelessly repeat, is the calmness and goodwill of parents.
Books about kindergarten that will help the baby to adapt
Contents of the article
- Why read books about kindergarten with a baby?
- Lama in kindergarten without mother | Anna Dewdney
- Matyusha goes to kindergarten | Irina Zartaiskaya
- Everyone in the garden! | Masha Rupasova
- Connie goes to kindergarten | Liana Schneider
- Stop – Kindergarten | Natalia Karpova
- Green Street | Esfir Tsyurupa
- Ushastik Bear in kindergarten | Cheslav Yancharsky
Why read books about kindergarten with a baby?
Kindergarten is the first big and important stage in a child’s life, going out into the world, the first society.
Unfortunately, getting to know an unfamiliar environment doesn’t always go smoothly, and that’s okay. After all, every baby is a separate person! Someone from the first day runs with pleasure to the teacher, and someone is worried and wants to stay with their parents. Books about kindergarten will help you adapt. We have collected the most interesting of them. Reading together and preparing for a new life stage will help the child to more easily survive the changes.
Lama in kindergarten without mother | Anna Dewdney
Anna Dewdney is an American writer and illustrator of children’s books. Her series about baby Lama, published by Career Press, helps young readers cope with many fears and problems. One of the books in the series is called “Lama in the kindergarten without a mother.” It is useful to read the book to the child before the first visit to kindergarten. Together with Lama, the kid learns a lot of interesting things about life in kindergarten. Funny poems will calm the child: he will understand that he will have many activities, new friends, and his mother will definitely take her beloved baby home in the evening.
The book helps to overcome the main fear of the child – “mom will not come for me.” Will definitely come!
Matyusha goes to kindergarten | Irina Zartaiskaya
This book also describes the first day of a child in kindergarten. His hero Matyusha is worried, he is in a new place without mom and dad, alone for the first time … Or not alone, but with good friends? The book published by “Clouds” focuses on the main anxieties of a small person in a big world. Separately, it is worth noting the work of illustrator Anastasia Arushanova. Her drawings made the story of Matyusha even more colorful and vibrant. Every child at first can miss his parents, home and the usual daily routine. But getting used to the new is easier if the baby knows what awaits him in kindergarten.
Everyone to the garden! | Masha Rupasova
The AST Publishing House presented children with a book by everyone’s favorite network poet Masha Rupasova with illustrations by the artist Agata Harutyunyan.
These kind and funny poems about kindergarten and the end of summer will be loved by readers of any age. The heroes of the book in kindergarten indulge, eat snow, have fun and sometimes feel sad. A kindergarten from the world of Masha Rupasova is an amazing place full of adventures. This book will help to interest the child in kindergarten. The kid will go with pleasure to where he will find many new experiences, acquaintances and the opportunity to fool around moderately sometimes.
Connie goes to kindergarten | Liana Schneider
Connie is a favorite of children. A series of books about this cute girl from the Alpina.Children publishing house is incredibly popular all over the world. In this book, three-year-old Connie goes to kindergarten, where a lot of interesting things await her. The heroine of this book infects with her inexhaustible optimism. Despite a little excitement, she is ready for her first day of kindergarten. It turns out that playing with the guys is very exciting.
Connie is looking forward to going back to kindergarten. Some of the realities of this book may seem unusual to kids. For example, Connie takes a snack from home with her, but this is forgivable, because she lives in another country. But Connie also loves her mother, dreams of making new friends and knows how to play fun.
Stop – Kindergarten | Natalia Karpova
The Enas-kniga publishing house gave readers a collection of merry and touching poems by Natalia Karpova with illustrations by Irina Avgustinovich. The stories of the characters in this book are close and understandable to kids. Their author understands the problems of the “small people”, does not turn a blind eye to them, but makes them big and important. At the same time, every trouble has a solution. The rain will end, you can make peace with a friend, and cold prickly snow is a harbinger of a joyful new year with Santa Claus and gifts. Folding and easy-to-remember verses can be tried to learn by heart.
Green Street | Esfir Tsyurupa
The hero of this book published by “Children’s Literature” really wants to go to kindergarten and tries to convince his great-grandmother and great-grandfather that he needs new friends.
Excited in this story – adults. Matvey lives next to the kindergarten, is friends with the guys, together they go through many interesting adventures. The book can be called a modern children’s classic, but for many years it was not reprinted. The boy Matvey, his dog Gambrinus, the rooster Beelzebub and other characters will surely appeal to readers of any age.
Ushastik bear in kindergarten | Cheslav Yancharsky
The book published by “Eksmo” about the Ushastik bear is familiar to more than one generation of children. A cute kind bear with a twisted ear became the hero of the animated series, a series of TV shows. The illustrations were prepared by Zbigniew Rychlicki. Ushastik helps children the first day in the garden, teaches the rules of behavior in a team, although he sometimes indulges himself. Associating toys in their kindergarten with a bear, children will look forward to meeting the heroes of their favorite book. After all, their adventures are so similar to what children will actually face.