Reading books is a great way to teach children about love, empathy, and kindness. Children's books are full of stories that can inspire little ones to be kind and compassionate towards others. Some of our favorite books include "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein, "Love You Forever" by Robert Munsch, and "I am Perfectly Designed" by Karamo Brown. These books can spark meaningful discussions about love, relationships, and the importance of treating others with kindness. So, this Valentine's Day, cuddle up with your child and a good book and let the love and kindness flow!
- Love From the Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Synopsis: Love From the Very Hungry Caterpillar is a heartwarming children's book that tells the story of the beloved character, the Very Hungry Caterpillar, as he celebrates all the things he loves in life. From the sun to the moon, from the flowers to the animals, the book explores the beauty of the world around us and the joy we can find in simple things. With Eric Carle's signature colorful illustrations and charming storytelling, Love From the Very Hungry Caterpillar is a delightful read for children and adults alike. - Happy Valentine's Day Mouse by Laura Numeroff
Synopsis: This book tells the story of Mouse, who is excited to celebrate Valentine's Day with his friends and give them each a special homemade card. As Mouse goes around delivering his cards, he discovers that his friends have also made him cards, making his day even more special. The book is filled with colorful illustrations and teaches children the value of friendship and kindness. - Little Blue Truck's Valentine by Alice Schertle
Synopsis: This is a charming children's book about friendship and love. Little Blue Truck delivers Valentines to all of his animal friends, but when he gets stuck in a snowdrift, his friend Toad comes to the rescue. Through their teamwork and kindness, Little Blue Truck and his friends learn the true meaning of Valentine's Day. With beautiful illustrations and a heartwarming message, this book is perfect for young readers. - How to Catch a Loveosaurus by Alice Walstead
Synopsis: The story follows a young boy named Max as he attempts to catch a "Loveosaurus," a mythical creature that he hopes will help him find love. With the help of his friends and some clever tactics, Max learns that love can't be caught like a wild animal, but instead must be nurtured and grown. The book is beautifully illustrated and delivers a heartwarming message about the importance of friendship and love. - Pete the Cat: Valentine's Day is Cool by James Dean
Synopsis: The heartwarming story follows Pete as he navigates the ups and downs of Valentine's Day, from decorating a special box to receiving unexpected gifts from his friends. Along the way, Pete learns the true meaning of friendship and love. With its catchy rhymes and colorful illustrations, this book is sure to delight young readers and adults alike. - Tiny T. Rex and The Perfect Valentine by Jonathan Stutzman
Synopsis: This sweet book tells the story of a small but determined T. Rex who wants to make the perfect Valentine's Day gift for his friend, Pointy. Despite his small arms, Tiny works hard to create a heartfelt present that will show how much he cares. Along the way, Tiny learns that the best gifts come from the heart and that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big impact on those we love. With adorable illustrations and a sweet message, this book is a perfect read for Valentine's Day or any day of the year. - Bananas for You by Sabrina Moyle
Synopsis: This charming picture book tells the story of a monkey who tries to find the perfect gift for his friend. The monkey goes on a journey, exploring different types of fruit, but ultimately decides that bananas are the best gift for his friend. The book features colorful illustrations and a heartwarming message about the importance of friendship and thoughtful gestures. - Biscuit's Valentine's Day by Alyssa Satin Capucilli
Synopsis: This book is about a cute little yellow puppy named Biscuit who celebrates Valentine's Day with his family and friends. Biscuit makes a special valentine for his best friend, a little girl named Daisy, and helps his owner prepare a surprise for his mom. Along the way, Biscuit learns about the importance of love, kindness, and friendship, making this book a perfect read for children of all ages. The book is beautifully illustrated, capturing the essence of the holiday and the spirit of the lovable Biscuit. - I Love You Like No Otter by Rose Rossner
Synopsis: This book is about the love shared between a parent and child. The story follows a mama otter and her baby as they spend a day together, playing and expressing their love for one another. With delightful illustrations and charming rhymes, this book is the perfect way to show your little ones how much you care. - I Love You All Ways by Marianne Richmond
Synopsis: This book celebrates the unconditional love between parents and their children. Through colorful illustrations and simple yet powerful language, the book explores the many ways in which parents express their love for their children, from everyday moments to special occasions and milestones. It is a beautiful reminder that no matter what, a parent's love for their child is always unwavering and limitless.
- Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
Synopsis: This book tells a story of two hares, Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare, and follows the two as they try to express their love for each other. Little Nutbrown Hare keeps trying to show Big Nutbrown Hare how much he loves him, but Big Nutbrown Hare always manages to outdo him. The book is a beautiful celebration of the love between a parent and a child, and it is sure to bring a smile to anyone's face. - Roses are Red, Your Feet Really Stink by Diane de Groat
Synopsis: Gilbert, a young skunk, prepares for his Valentine's Day party at school and in the process, receives a mean Valentine's Day card from his classmate Lewis. Gilbert decides to get revenge by writing a mean card back to Lewis, however, things don't go as planned. Through this, Gilbert learns an important lesson about forgiveness and kindness, and teaches children the importance of treating others with respect and compassion. - Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli
Synopsis: Mr. Hatch receives a mysterious package on Valentine's Day, and the gift changes his outlook on life as he begins to see the world in a new way. As he becomes more kind and friendly, the people in his community start to notice and embrace him. But when the package turns out to be a mistake, Mr. Hatch must decide whether to return to his old ways or continue spreading joy and love. - Snowy Valentine by David Petersen
Synopsis: This book is about a little mouse named Jasper who wants to give a special Valentine's Day gift to his significant other, Lily. However, a heavy snowstorm impedes his progress, and he must use his wits and resourcefulness to overcome the obstacles and make it to Lily's house. Along the way, he encounters various woodland creatures who help him on his journey. This book aides in teaching children about perseverance and the importance of love and friendship. - Love, Splat (Splat the Cat) by Rob Scotton
Synopsis: Despite Splat the Cat's best efforts to impress a beautiful cat, named Kitten, Splat feels discouraged when he sees her spending time with Spike, the tough cat in the neighborhood. But with the help of his friend Seymour, Splat learns that being true to himself is the best way to win Kitten's heart. - Love is My Favorite Thing by Emma Chichester Clark
Synopsis: This delightful children's book follows the adventures of a dog named Plum, who loves nothing more than spreading love everywhere she goes. Despite her occasional misadventures, Plum ultimately learns that love is the most important thing of all. With charming illustrations and a heartwarming message, "Love is My Favorite Thing" is a must-read for children and adults alike. - Olive, My Love by Vivian Walsh
Synopsis: Olive is a little dog who goes on an adventure to find her lost beloved owner, Lenny. Along the way, Olive meets new friends and overcomes obstacles with her determination and courage. This charming tale teaches young readers about the power of love and the importance of never giving up on those we care about. - Harvey The Heart Had Too Many Farts by Jane Bexley
Synopsis: This lighthearted book is about a heart named Harvey, who has a flatulence problem. Despite feeling embarrassed and ashamed, Harvey eventually learns to accept his condition with the help of his friends and learns to laugh at himself. The book aims to teach children about self-acceptance and embracing their differences. - Love Is by Diane Adams
Synopsis: This is a heartwarming story about a little girl and a young duckling who form an unlikely friendship. As the duckling grows, the girl learns to let go and allow nature to take its course. The story teaches the valuable lesson that love is about caring for someone enough to let them go and allowing them to grow in their own way. - Crocodiles Need Kisses Too by Rebecca Colby
Synopsis: Readers follow the story of a young crocodile named William who just wants a little affection from his family. Despite their tough exterior, William and his crocodile family all have a soft side that is explored in this heartwarming tale. Through colorful illustrations and playful prose, this book shows that even the scariest creatures can benefit from a little love and affection. - A Little SPOT of Love by Diane Alber
Synopsis: As an elementary school social worker, I cannot recommend Diane Alber's books enough! This children's book that teaches young readers about the power of love and kindness. The book follows the adventures of a little SPOT, who goes on a journey of self-discovery and learns that the most important thing in life is to love and be loved. It is perfect for teaching kids about empathy, compassion, and the joy of spreading love to those around them. - A Little SPOT of Love on Valentine's Day by Diane Alber
Synopsis: A Little SPOT of Love wants to spread love on Valentine's Day. With the help of his friends, the little spot learns that love comes in all shapes and sizes and that it's important to show love to everyone, not just those who are close to us. This heartwarming story is perfect for children learning about the importance of kindness, empathy, and inclusivity. - Amelia Bedelia's First Valentine by Herman Parish
Synopsis: Amelia Bedelia is excited about making valentines for her classmates. She misunderstands her teacher's instructions, resulting in some comical situations. However, she eventually figures out the right way to make valentines and delivers them to her friends, making it a memorable day for all. - Nate the Great and the Mushy Valentine by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat
Synopsis: In this book, detective Nate the Great receives a valentine from an anonymous sender and sets out to solve the mystery of who sent it. Along the way, he encounters various suspects, including his dog Sludge and his friends. With his sleuthing skills, Nate ultimately uncovers the identity of the valentine sender and delivers a sweet surprise. - Junie B. Jones and the Mushy Gushy Valentine by Barbara Park
Synopsis: Junie B. Jones is excited for the Valentine's Day party at school and making cards for everyone in her class. However, things get complicated when Junie receives an unexpected Valentine from a secret admirer. Junie tries to figure out who the admirer is and deals with the ups and downs of elementary school crushes.
You can purchase these titles and other great books at your local bookstore, online at Amazon or Barnes and Noble, or check them out at your local library!
