Teaching Kids to Be Kind: Picture Books That Make a Difference

Kindness is a crucial quality for children to develop. Teaching kindness to our students is essential for nurturing well-rounded, emotionally intelligent children who can build strong relationships and contribute positively to their communities. By instilling these values early on, parents and educators can help shape a more compassionate future generation.

Here are some excellent books to share with children that focus on the theme of kindness. These stories not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and the importance of helping and including others.

Picture Books for Younger Children

• Room on Our Rock by Kate and Jol Temple, illustrated by Terri Rose Baynton
  This clever picture book tells two sides of a story about seals on a rock, illustrating themes of inclusion and the importance of welcoming others

• The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig, illustrated by Patrice Barton
  This story follows Brian, a boy who feels unnoticed until a new classmate helps him find his place, promoting messages of friendship and acceptance

• Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud
  It uses the metaphor of an invisible bucket to teach children about kindness and emotional well-being

• Pig the Pug by Aaron Blabey
  A humorous tale about Pig, who learns that sharing and kindness are more rewarding than being selfish

• A Hat for Mrs. Goldman: A Story about Knitting and Love by Michelle Edwards
  This warm tale illustrates the joy of creating a special gift for someone deserving of kindness.

• Buddy the Bucket Filler by Maria Dismondy and Carol McCloud
  A story about how everyone has an invisible bucket that can be filled or dipped from through acts of kindness

• Kindness Is Cooler, Mrs. Ruler by Margery Cuyler
  This book challenges a classroom to perform good deeds, showcasing creative ways to give back

• The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
  A gentle story that teaches children how to support friends in times of sadness

• Tomorrow I’ll Be Kind by Jessica Hische
  A beautiful book that inspires readers to treat others with compassion every day

Books for Early READERS

• What Does It Mean to be Kind? by Rana DiOrio
  This book captures the essence of kind acts and encourages children to practice kindness in their communities

• The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig
  A story about a boy who feels unnoticed until a new friend helps him shine, emphasizing inclusion and friendship

• Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller
  This book follows a girl who thinks of ways to show kindness after a classmate spills juice on her dress

• How Full Is Your Bucket? by Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer
  Using the metaphor of a bucket, this story explains how acts of kindness can uplift both the giver and receiver

• The Kindness Elves by Anna Ranson
  This interactive story features small elves that inspire children to engage in acts of kindness, making it a fun resource for teaching empathy.

• The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade by Justin Roberts
  This story follows Sally McCabe, who speaks out against unkindness at her school, encouraging her peers to embrace kindness

Engaging Stories for Older Kids

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  A novel about a boy with facial differences who navigates school life, teaching lessons on acceptance and kindness

• The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
  A classic story about selflessness and the joy of giving, illustrating deep emotional connections

• Ordinary Mary’s Extraordinary Deed by Emily Pearson
  A delightful tale about how one small act of kindness can create a ripple effect of goodwill in the community.

• Enemy Pie by Derek Munson
  A relatable story that teaches children how understanding and kindness can turn enemies into friends

These books can serve as wonderful tools for parents and educators to foster discussions about kindness and empathy among children. Sharing these stories can inspire young readers to practice kindness in their everyday lives.

What are some stories that you like to share with your class to teach and foster the skill of kindness? We would love it if you joined the conversation and left a comment below.