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Photography by Seana Williamson
12 Books About Kindness for
Kids Ages 3 – 5
by Melissa Taylor
Melissa Taylor, MA, is a teacher, mama, and writer from Colorado. Her goal in childhood was to read every book in the children's section of the library. She loves (in no particular order) children's books, her Kindle, Pinterest, and knitting rectangles. An education expert, she’s written for many publications, including Parenting.com, USA Today Health, and Scholastic Parent and Child. Connect with Melissa on her learning blog, Imagination Soup, or on Pinterest.
For parents who value kindness over other things, we start at home. But in addition to being positive role models there, it’s also valuable to provide intentional opportunities to teach and practice kindness so children are even better prepared to exercise this virtue in the real world. One way is to read thought-provoking picture books that prioritize the value of kindness.
by Sophie Beer
Children who love bright colors and quick reads will appreciate this board book from the creator of Love Makes a Family. Each page offers simple suggestions for children to show kindness, whether it’s saying hello, being patient, or cheering on a friend. The bold illustrations and easy-to-understand text make it an excellent choice for younger readers.
by R.A. Strong, illustrated by Ekaterina Trukhan
From one to 10, notice all the ways that kids can be kind to others. Maybe it's reading five books to siblings or giving six cans of food to the food pantry. Charming, colorful illustrations show happy, diverse children modeling 10 doable acts of kindness.
by Jessica Hische
Hische, the author and illustrator of Tomorrow I'll Be Brave, continues to inspire children with a new book that encourages readers to be intentionally kind. In addition to the book's positive message, beautiful hand-lettering and charming illustrations make this a visual feast for the eyes.
RELATED: Tomorrow I’ll Be Kind Inspires Little Readers to Make the World a Better Place
by Britta Teckentrup
While anger and cruelty can destroy a friendship, kindness can make it blossom. This gorgeously illustrated picture book shows both situations side by side. Die-cut pages and metaphors — a growing crack for a ruined friendship and a growing tree for a strengthened one — show young readers how their words and actions affect their relationships.
by Cori Doerrfeld
Taylor's animal friends try to help her feel less sad with a variety of helpful suggestions. However, it's not until Rabbit arrives and sits quietly with Taylor that Taylor can finally feel her feelings, starting with the sadness. The message is simple yet powerful — being present with a friend is better than trying to fix their problems.
I Am Kind: A Little Book About Abraham Lincoln
by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
At first glance, it seems that this board book is about one of the most famous presidents of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. But it's actually a book more about kindness. Read how Lincoln's voice is soft, loud, and most of all kind. Then, see if you can be kind like President Lincoln.
by Patricia Hegarty, illustrated by Summer Macon
You and your preschooler will adore this collection of bestselling board books about kindness. The simple text and gentle illustrations have made them storytime favorites for young readers everywhere. They come in a giftable boxed set perfect for baby showers, birthdays, holidays, and special occasions.
by Sonia Sotomayor, illustrated by Rafael Lopez
Lavishly illustrated, this sensitive book celebrates children with physical and neurological differences, showing that each child has special gifts. The book includes open-ended questions directed towards readers, which promote thinking and build empathy. As the book progresses, readers will notice that the children are working together to build a community garden.
I Walk with Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness
by Kerascoet
This beautifully-nuanced wordless picture book shows a lonely, new classmate being bullied and left out. When another girl notices this unfair treatment, she shows the new girl kindness by walking home with her. This small act of kindness leads to more inclusion and friendships in their whole community.
RELATED: What To Do When Your Child Is Not Kind
How to Be Kind in Kindergarten
by D.J. Steinberg, illustrated by Ruth Hammond
If you loved Kindergarten, Here I Come!, you’ll also enjoy this book about kindness from the same author. This sweet picture book takes readers through the school year with short poems that describe how children can show kindness to each other, their teachers, and themselves. It’s a must-read for any kindergartner or pre-kindergartener.
by Alexandra Penfold, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman
This welcoming classroom is filled with children who learn and play together. Colorful, engaging illustrations convey cultural and ethnic diversity and a strong sense of safety. The phrase "All are welcome here," repeats throughout the story, reinforcing that each child belongs and is part of the community of learners.
by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson
After church, CJ and Nana ride the bus to a soup kitchen. As they ride, CJ peppers Nana with questions that reveal Nana's insightful perspective about life, economic and cultural differences, and the beauty found even in unexpected places. This Caldecott-winning story is packed with diversity, a warm, multi-generational relationship, and the truth that we can choose the lens through which we see the world.
*** Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2020 and updated in 2023.
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