We all know that books provide an excellent platform for learning in our children. They can inspire discussions with your child around kindness, empathy, and gratitude. Here are some of our favorite children’s books for nurturing these values in young children:

The Mitten Tree by Candace Christiansen

One snowy day an elderly woman, Sarah, watches children gathering at the bus stop. While they never seem to notice her, she notices them, especially one little boy who has no mittens. That night, Sarah knits the boy a pair of cozy mittens and places them on the blue spruce tree for him to discover. It soon becomes a game, with the children looking for new mittens on the mysterious tree every morning, and Sarah joyfully knitting new ones each night. The Mitten Tree teaches about opening our eyes to those around us, and giving from the heart.

Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson

This sweet story follows our favorite Bear as he discovers the true meaning of gratitude. Through rhythmic text, colorful illustrations and an engaging story, Bear Says Thanks, encourages children to experience with Bear, his reflections on the significance of expressing appreciation for others.

Maddi’s Fridge by Lois Brandt

Through humor and warmth, Maddi’s Fridge raises awareness about poverty and hunger. Best friend Sofia and Maddi live in the same neighborhood, go to the same school, and play together daily - nbut while Sofia's fridge at home is full of nutritious food, the fridge at Maddi's house is empty. Sofia learns that Maddi's family doesn't have enough money to fill their fridge and promises Maddi she'll keep this discovery a secret. But because Sofia wants to help her friend, she's faced with a difficult decision: to keep her promise or tell her parents about Maddi's empty fridge. Filled with colorful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others.

The Thankful Book by Todd Parr

The Thankful Book celebrates all the little things children can give thanks for. From everyday activities like reading and bathtime to big family meals together and special alone time between parent and child. It’s a timeless reminder to appreciate the little blessings that make life extraordinary.

The Sandwich Swap by Kelly DiPucchio and Queen Rania Al Abdullah

Lily and Salma are best friends. They like doing all the same things, and they always eat lunch together. Lily eats peanut butter and Salma eats hummus—but what's that between friends? It turns out, a lot. Before they know it, a food fight breaks out. Can Lily and Salma put aside their differences? Or will a sandwich come between them? The Sandwich Swap highlights the positive impact of sharing our experiences with each other and valuing what makes us different.

If Everybody Did by Jo Ann Stover

What would happen if everyone picked the flowers, or squeezed the cat, or neglected to wipe his feet? The hilarious and terrible consequences of everyone doing his own thing are portrayed in the 1960 book, If Everybody Did. Children and adults alike will enjoy this precautionary tale with its concise rhyming text, and amusing illustrations that provide humorous examples of the importance of obeying rules and being courteous.

Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan

Based on the actual volunteer experience of the author, Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen provides a look into the soup kitchen without an overly sentimental view of the hungry or a dose of pessimism for the reader. It provides a gentle and age appropriate introduction to hunger and homelessness from a kid’s point of view and builds empathy through the character and listener.

Should I Share My Ice Cream? by Mo Willems

Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In Should I Share My Ice Cream? Gerald has a big decision to make. But will he make it in time? Using vocabulary that is perfect for beginning readers, Mo Willems has crafted a funny story about the challenges of doing the right thing.

Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora

Everyone in the neighborhood dreams of a taste of Omu's delicious stew! One by one, they follow their noses toward the scrumptious scent. And one by one, Omu offers a portion of her meal. Soon the pot is empty. Has she been so generous that she has nothing left for herself? Thank You, Omu! is a heartwarming story of sharing and community, beautifully illustrated by the author through cut-paper designs