Best Picture Books for Toddler Children
What are the Best Books for 2 Year Olds and 3 Year Olds?
My toddler LOVES story time. We read books before bedtime, but she just generally loves picking up a book, flipping through the pages and pointing at pictures she knows.
Now that this is my second time around with a toddler, I’ve realized that the best toddler books have simple and easy words and stories.
They’re educational and teach kids new words, values or lessons.
They’re board books or hardcover books because toddlers can be rough!
Here’s a list of books my toddler and I both love to read!
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Best Toddler Picture Books
1. Press Here
Author: Hervé Tullet
Book Reviews:
“An innovative, interactive work that’s almost impossible not to have fun with.” – Publishers Weekly
“This is one of the most engaging and interactive books available.” – School Library Journal
“Tullet’s brilliant creation begs to be read over and over and is endlessly entertaining.” – Kirkus Reviews
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Press Here is an interactive children’s book that invites young readers to engage and interact with its pages, offering a delightful and imaginative reading experience.
The story begins with a single yellow dot on the first page and a simple instruction to “Press Here”.
As readers follow the instructions, they turn the page to discover the dot has multiplied, changed colors, or moved around the page.
With each action, the book encourages children to participate by clapping, shaking, or blowing on the pages.
As the book progresses, the dots continue to transform and move in response to the reader’s actions.
The interactive nature of the book sparks curiosity and encourages children to use their imagination as they anticipate and explore the different outcomes.
It demonstrates cause and effect, introducing concepts of observation, sequencing, and visual perception in an entertaining and accessible way.
Press Here is BY FAR my toddler’s favorite book! We’ve read it easily over 100 times. It’s almost to the point now where I’m considering hiding it from her!
I love how it has sparked a love of reading in her. Through the book, she has learned about colors, numbers and actions.
It has become my go-to gift for 2 year old birthday parties!
Book Quotes:
”Ready?
Press here and turn the page.
Great! Now press the yellow dot again.”
2. From Head to Toe
Author: Eric Carle
Book Reviews:
“In signature Carle style, the animal characters in this book – chickens, giraffes, gorillas, and kangaroos among them – flex and bend in a colorful landscape that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the animal world… This is a boon for both the youngest audience and for parents and teachers looking to encourage motor skill development.” – Publishers Weekly
“This classic from the beloved children’s author uses colorful and charming illustrations of animals to encourage children to wiggle, shake, and stomp… The illustrations are eye-catching and sure to keep little ones engaged… An interactive and fun way to get kids moving.” – Kirkus Reviews
“With his classic collage illustrations, Carle introduces basic body movements through a series of playful animals… Toddlers will enjoy the animals’ movements and the book’s lively interactive text.” – School Library Journal
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
From Head to Toe by Eric Carle is an interactive children’s book that encourages young readers to move and mimic the actions of various animals.
Through colorful illustrations and simple text, the book invites children to actively engage with the story.
The book begins with the question, “Can you do it?” Each page introduces a different animal and asks readers if they can imitate the animal’s movement.
From bending their neck like a giraffe to wiggling their hips like a penguin, children are encouraged to use their bodies to participate in the animal actions.
As the book progresses, readers are introduced to a variety of animals, including seals, monkeys, cats, and more.
With each page turn, children are prompted to try a new movement, fostering physical activity, coordination, and body awareness.
Eric Carle’s signature collage-style illustrations bring the animals to life, capturing their unique characteristics and movements.
The book’s repetitive and rhythmic text makes it easy for young children to follow along and join in the fun.
From Head to Toe is the book I keep in the car for when my toddler gets bored or starts to misbehave. The book instantly engages her attention and she has fun imitating the actions and looking at the colorful pictures.
Book Quotes:
“I am a penguin and I turn my head, can you do it?
I can do it.
I am a giraffe and I bend my neck. Can you do it?
I can do it.”
3. Good Night, I Love You
Author: Caroline Jayne Church
Book Reviews:
“Church’s recognizable illustrations of round-faced children exude warmth, and the spreads are filled with soothing pastel hues that complement the gentle text. A tender ode to unconditional love.” – Publishers Weekly
“The soothing text provides reassurance, and Church’s signature illustrations featuring round-faced, sweet toddlers and preschoolers are always welcome. This one’s sure to inspire a few extra cuddles at bedtime.” – Booklist
“Church once again proves that she has an incredible knack for reaching very young children. Her bright, colorful illustrations have a soothing quality that lulls children into a peaceful mood. This is a perfect book to share just before turning out the light for bedtime.” – School Library Journal
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Good Night, I Love You by Caroline Jayne Church is a heartwarming children’s book that through gentle rhymes and charming illustrations, creates a soothing and comforting bedtime routine.
The story follows young children as they go through their nighttime rituals.
From taking a bath to brushing your teeth, the book guides the child through a series of familiar actions that are normally part of a bedtime routine.
Caroline Jayne Church’s colorful and engaging illustrations bring the characters and their bedtime routine to life.
The soft rhymes and repetition create a soothing rhythm, perfect for winding down at the end of the day.
My toddler often fights brushing their teeth or just generally getting ready for bed. This book shows her that these are the common bedtime routine rules.
Since reading the Good Night, I Love You regularly before bedtime, she has been more willing to do all the steps in our bedtime routine.
Book Quotes:
“It’s time for bed so let’s get ready.
Bring your bunny.
Bring your teddy.
Bath fun at the end of the day!
Laugh, splash, giggle and play!”
4. Ten Tiny Toes
Author: Caroline Jayne Church
Book Reviews:
“Church has a knack for creating adorable picture books with a universal appeal, and this one is no exception. The simple, rhyming text focuses on a baby’s toes and the many things they can do, while Church’s signature art style, featuring rosy-cheeked characters with big, bright eyes, will captivate readers.” – Publishers Weekly
“Church’s spare rhyming text and colorful illustrations offer an easy read-aloud experience for caregivers and toddlers. The message of unconditional love will be reassuring for little ones, as the narrator celebrates each tiny toe with an affirming message. A sweet, simple board book that’s perfect for bedtime snuggles.” – Kirkus Reviews
“With her signature bold lines and bright colors, Church creates a visual celebration of baby toes. The rhyming text and simple phrases will keep babies engaged, while the illustrations will hold the attention of older siblings or caregivers.” – Booklist
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Ten Tiny Toes by Caroline Jayne Church is a delightful children’s book that introduces toddlers to their body parts.
With adorable illustrations and charming rhymes, the book informs toddlers about their basic body parts like your mouth and your ears.
My toddler is always curious to not only identify it in the book, but also on herself.
The text repeats and reinforces the names of body parts. It’s through this book that she learned these initial body parts.
Ten Tiny Toes is a perfect choice for cuddle time, bedtime, or anytime parents and children want to share a loving moment together.
Book Quotes:
“Mouth, ears, eyes, nose.
Arms, belly, legs….
and ten tiny toes.
Touch your ears and make them wiggle.
Touch your belly and laugh and giggle.”
5. Goodnight Moon
Author: Margaret Wise Brown
Book Reviews:
“A little rabbit bids goodnight to each familiar thing in his moonlit room. Rhythmic, gently lulling words combined with warm and equally lulling pictures make this beloved classic an ideal bedtime book.” – Christian Science Monitor
“Little children will love this going to sleep book – a really fresh idea by a talented and prolific author, illustrated by Clement Hurd. In a soft sing-song, here is a bunny saying goodnight room, goodnight moon, goodnight to all the familiar objects in the softly lighted room. Then as the room darkens, in successive pictures, the goodnight ceremony moves forward.” – Kirkus Reviews
“Just in time for gift-giving season, the two hardcover staples for every nursery Goodnight Moon and The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown, illus. by Clement Hurd are now available in a handsome fabric-covered shrink-wrapped cardboard sleeve as A Margaret Wise Brown Gift Set. In addition, an oversize board book edition of Goodnight Moon makes the great green room larger than ever, allowing readers to trace with ease the tiny mouse that appears in each spread. (Sept.)” – Publishers Weekly
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown is a beloved children’s book that has captivated generations with its soothing rhythm and gentle storytelling.
The book takes readers on a tranquil journey through the bedtime routine of a young bunny.
As the story begins, the little bunny is tucked in bed, ready to drift off to sleep.
From there, the book invites readers to say goodnight to various objects in the bunny’s room.
It introduces familiar items like a red balloon, a picture of a cow jumping over the moon, and three little bears with three little chairs, and many more.
Through simple and repetitive phrases, the book creates a calming and comforting atmosphere.
The text describes each object and bids it goodnight, inviting young readers to join in the ritual of saying goodnight to the world around them.
Goodnight Moon’s timeless charm and enchanting illustrations have made it a classic bedtime story for children around the world.
My toddler often requests this book to be part of our bedtime routine. She is a huge fan of bunnies!
Its gentle cadence and familiar images create a sense of security and relaxation, making it the perfect choice for winding down and settling into sleep.
Book Quotes:
“In the great green room, there was a telephone, and a red balloon and a picture of –
The cow jumping over the moon.
And there were three little bears sitting on chairs
And two little kittens and a pair of mittens
And a little toyhouse
And a young mouse.”
6. Are You My Mother?
Author: P.D Eastman
Book Reviews:
“This is an ideal book for sharing with preschoolers, one they will ask to hear again and again.” – Library Journal
“It’s a great concept book, one that’s perfect for teaching children about colors and shapes. It’s also a book that will endure repeated readings.” – The Christian Science Monitor
“The repetitions and contrasts in tone and mood make for easy reading and predictable anticipating, while the story offers a reassuringly realistic depiction of a young child’s life and pursuits.” – Kirkus Reviews
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman is a classic children’s book that follows the endearing journey of a baby bird in search of its mother.
The story begins with the mother bird leaving her nest to find food for her soon-to-hatch baby.
However, when the baby bird finally emerges from its egg and finds the nest empty, it becomes determined to find its mother.
The baby bird embarks on a series of encounters, approaching various animals and asking each one if they are its mother.
From a kitten to a dog, the baby bird explores different possibilities. However, none of them are its mother.
As the baby bird continues its quest, it starts to feel lost and alone.
But just when hope begins to fade, the baby bird spots a large and noisy machine – a steam shovel – and mistakenly believes it is its mother.
However, before the steam shovel can respond, the bird is whisked away back to its nest by the real mother bird.
In a heartwarming reunion, the baby bird is joyfully reunited with its mother, who explains that she went out to find food for her little one.
The story concludes with the baby bird snuggling up to its mother and falling asleep, knowing it has finally found its rightful place.
Are You My Mother? is a timeless tale of love, identity, and the bond between a parent and child.
My toddler loves the charming illustrations! The simple, repetitive text engages her and evokes a sense of adventure and anticipation.
The story teaches children about the importance of family, the power of love, and the reassurance that no matter how lost they may feel, they will always find their way back to the ones who care for them.
Book Quotes:
“A mother bird sat on her egg.
The egg jumped.
Oh, oh! Said the mother bird. My baby will be here. He will want to eat.”
7. The Napping House
Author: Audrey Wood
Book Reviews:
“In this cumulative tale, a wakeful flea atop a number of sleeping creatures causes a commotion, with just one bite. Wood’s catchy verse begs to be read aloud, and Don Wood’s sly illustrations will keep even toddlers guessing what’s next in the escalating wakefulness.” – Publishers Weekly
“The sleepy household at the center of this cumulative tale grows and grows until it too collapses and dozes. The languorous rhyme tells the story of a cozy bed piled high with a snoring granny, a dreaming child, a dozing dog, a snoozing cat, and a tiny flea, whose bite finally rouses everyone. The pacing of the story is dreamlike, and the repetition of the increasing number of dozers reinforces the lulling tone. Don Wood’s watercolor illustrations are big, bright, and filled with humor, depicting the bed crammed with personalities and activity.” – School Library Journal
“With its soothing, repetitive text and its grand, dreamlike illustrations, this book captures the essence of a comfortable nap. The words are like a soft blanket, and the pictures, filled with rounded shapes and gentle curves, seem to have been painted in warm milk. It’s an ideal book to share with small children, and it will be appreciated by any adult who likes to spend a lazy afternoon dozing with a good book.” – Booklist
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
The Napping House by Audrey Wood is a delightful and humorous children’s book that takes readers on a whimsical journey through a cozy house where everyone is fast asleep.
The story unfolds in a cumulative and rhythmic style, making it a joy to read aloud.
The tale begins with a cozy house where a snoring granny lies in a bed.
As the story progresses, a variety of characters join Granny in the bed, creating a comical and crowded scene.
A dozing dog, a slumbering cat, a snoozing mouse, and even a tiny flea all find their way onto the bed, piling up in a hilarious heap.
The pile-up of sleepers creates a visual spectacle as the bed becomes more and more crowded.
However, the precarious stack of slumbering characters reaches its tipping point when a wakeful flea bites the mouse.
The sudden awakening triggers a chain reaction, causing everyone to wake up in a frenzied flurry.
Audrey Wood’s whimsical and vivid illustrations beautifully capture the drowsy and exaggerated expressions of each character.
The illustrations, combined with the rhythmic and repetitive text, add to the book’s charm and engage toddlers.
My toddler daughter loves reading The Napping House and identifying the different characters involved. She especially loves it when everyone wakes up. She finds it funny and playful.
Book Quotes:
“There is a house. A napping house.
And in that house there is a bed, a cozy bed in a napping house,
Where everyone is sleeping.”
8. Steam Train, Dream Train
Author: Sherri Duskey Rinker
Book Reviews:
“Rinker and Lichtenheld, the creators of Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site, team up again for another rhythmic bedtime story, this one set aboard a train. In dreamlike spreads, the train – ‘puffing, chuffing,/ never yawning’ – makes its way through a darkened landscape, with each car serving as a refuge for different animals preparing for bed.” – Publishers Weekly
“The combination of rhyming couplets and an ever-changing cast of characters makes for an entertaining bedtime read. The illustrations are filled with details and offer plenty of surprises. Fans of the previous book will want to pick this one up.” – School Library Journal
“As in the previous book, the verse is clever, and the art is charming and imaginative. This is sure to be popular with both train and animal fans, as well as with kids who like to let their imaginations lead them to unexpected places.” – Booklist
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Steam Train, Dream Train by Sherri Duskey Rinker is a captivating and imaginative children’s book that takes readers on a magical nighttime adventure aboard a steam train.
Filled with colorful illustrations and engaging text, the story unfolds with a sense of wonder and excitement.
As the sun sets, the steam train arrives at the station, ready to transport its animal crew.
Each page introduces different animals who have unique roles and responsibilities on the train.
From the polar bears loading ice cream to the monkeys delivering toys, the animals work together to load the train.
As the train is loaded and starts moving, the animals begin to unwind and settle into their sleeping cars.
The colorful spreads and attention to detail create a sense of enchantment and capture the imagination of young toddlers.
Steam Train, Dream Train combines the excitement of trains with the tranquility of bedtime, providing a delightful and calming reading experience for my toddler’s bedtime routine.
Book Quotes:
“Through the darkness, clickety clock…
coming closer down the track..
hold your breath so you can hear
huffing, chuffing, drawing near.”
9. First Words and Numbers
Author: Sarah Parkin
Book Reviews:
“First Words and Numbers is a fun and interactive book that introduces young children to the world of words and numbers. The bright, colorful illustrations and simple text make it easy for children to learn and retain new information, and the interactive elements make it an engaging and enjoyable read.” – Booklist
“With its colorful illustrations and engaging activities, First Words and Numbers is a great way for young children to learn about letters, numbers, and basic concepts. The interactive elements, including lift-the-flap pages and touch-and-feel elements, make it a fun and educational experience for kids and parents alike.” – School Library Journal
“This is an excellent first book for young children, as it introduces them to important concepts in a fun and interactive way. The illustrations are bright and engaging, and the activities are designed to help children learn and retain information. Overall, a great addition to any child’s library.” – Publishers Weekly
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
First Words and Numbers by Sarah Parkin is an engaging and educational children’s book that introduces young readers to essential vocabulary and counting concepts.
With its vibrant illustrations and simple text, the book provides a fun and interactive learning experience for children as they explore words and numbers.
The book is divided into two sections, each focusing on a different learning aspect.
The first section introduces children to a variety of everyday objects, animals, and actions.
The second section of the book focuses on numbers and counting objects, laying the foundation for early numeracy skills.
My toddler loves the bright colors and friendly characters.
I love how First Words and Numbers expands her vocabulary, introduces her to early numeracy skills, and promotes a love for learning.
Book Quotes:
“Red
A wolf is lurking in a wood,
He meets a girl in a red hood.
How many red apples can you count?”
10. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Author: Bill Martin Jr.
Book Reviews:
“To celebrate this beloved book’s 25th birthday, Eric Carle has energized his original artwork, providing bold, fresh colors and his now familiar menagerie.” – Publishers Weekly
“The contemporary classic . . . perfect for sharing with a group of preschoolers.” – The Horn Book Guide
“A picture book full of rhyme and repetition that will appeal to preschoolers. Carle’s large collages bursting with color are perfect for the text.” – Booklist
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and illustrated by Eric Carle is a beloved children’s book that introduces young readers to a variety of animals and colors.
The book follows a simple and repetitive structure that engages and captivates children.
The story begins with the question, “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, what do you see?”
Each page introduces a new animal with a different color, prompting the same question.
As the book progresses, readers encounter a range of animals, including a red bird, a yellow duck, a blue horse, and more.
Eric Carle’s iconic illustrations bring the animals to life with vibrant colors and distinct textures.
The images on Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? are bold and eye-catching, captivating the attention of toddlers.
It’s easy for my toddler to follow along and participate given the repetitive nature of the text and the predictable structure of the story.
Book Quotes:
“Brown bear, brown bear, what do you see?
I see a red bird looking at me.”
11. The Bedtime Book by Todd Parr
Author: Todd Parr
Book Reviews:
“Todd Parr brings his trademark bright colors and bold lines to his newest book about a young boy’s bedtime routine…The story is simple and sweet, and is perfect for little ones who need a bedtime story that is not too long, but will still lull them to sleep with a sense of comfort and love.” – BookPage
“The illustrations are colorful, bright, and fun…The reassuring tone and colorful pictures make this a great bedtime story for young readers.” – School Library Journal
“Parr’s signature illustrations and text are on display in this comforting bedtime story that will become a family favorite…A great addition to any bedtime routine.” – Kirkus Reviews
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
The Bedtime Book by Todd Parr is a delightful and comforting children’s book that gently guides young readers through the bedtime routine with warmth and positivity.
Each page features Parr’s signature bold and vibrant illustrations, showcasing diverse characters and their bedtime activities.
The book begins by highlighting various nighttime activities that happen before the animals are ready for bed, such as brushing teeth, putting on pajamas, and taking a bath.
It also shares the animals various excuses before bed like how the pig found a giant spider in her room or the elephant heard a noise in the closet.
As a parent of a toddler, I can relate to hearing these excuses before bedtime.
Reading The Bedtime Book to my toddler reassures her that it’s okay to have fears or worries about going to sleep and that they are not alone in experiencing these emotions, but they have to go to bed because sleeping is important and if you don’t get enough sleep, you will be cranky.
Book Quotes:
“It’s time for bed!
Good night!
Quiet!
Do not disturb!!
But, no one is ready for bed.
The puppy has to brush his teeth.
The narwhal needs to take her bath.”
12. The Velveteen Rabbit
Author: Margery William
Book Reviews:
“An enduring classic.” – The New York Times Book Review
“One of the great children’s books of the century.” – The New Yorker
“As full of pathos and power as the day it was written.” – The Chicago Tribune
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams is a beloved children’s book that tells a heartwarming tale about the transformative power of love and the magic of becoming real.
The story begins with the introduction of a brand new velveteen rabbit. He is given to a young boy as a Christmas gift and quickly becomes his favorite toy.
The rabbit becomes deeply devoted to the boy, seeking to make him happy and accompanying him on imaginative adventures.
Throughout the book, the velveteen rabbit faces challenges, including being forgotten outside.
However, his unwavering loyalty and the love he receives from the boy eventually transform him into a real rabbit.
The book beautifully explores themes of love, friendship, and the power of imagination.
The Velveteen Rabbit is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers of all ages and not just toddlers, celebrating the power of love and the journey of becoming real.
I love reading this book to my toddler. There are some complex emotions in this book that she doesn’t understand yet.
Over time, the more we read it, I think she’ll appreciate the book’s message about the profound impact that love and affection can have on our lives.
Book Quotes:
”There was once a velveteen rabbit.
He was fat and bunchy, his coat was spotted brown and white, and his ears were lined with pink sateen.
On Christmas morning, when he sat wedged in the top of the Boy’s stocking, with a sprig of holly between his paws, the effect was charming.”
13. We’re Going On A Bear Hunt
Author: Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury
Book Reviews:
“It’s the perfect tale for reading aloud.” – Daily Mail
“This classic story is perfect for reading with young children and ideal for early readers too.” – Manchester Evening News
“The combination of bravado, repetitive text and perfectly-paced drama make this a classic picture book and a perfect story-time read.” – Guardian
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
We’re Going On A Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury is a delightful and adventurous children’s book that takes readers on a thrilling journey through various natural elements in search of a bear.
With its repetitive and rhythmic text, the book captures the excitement and suspense of a family’s bear hunt.
The story follows a family consisting of a father, mother, and their children as they embark on a bear hunt.
They encounter different obstacles along the way, including long swishy grass, a deep cold river, thick oozy mud, a big dark forest, and a swirling whirling snowstorm.
As they venture deeper into the wilderness, the family’s excitement grows, and the anticipation of encountering a bear builds.
Finally, they stumble upon a dark cave, and with courage, they enter. Inside, they indeed find a bear, and a hasty retreat follows as they rush back through all the obstacles they encountered on their way.
I first heard about this book from a read-aloud, circle time session for toddlers.
What I love about We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is that you can incorporate hand gestures.
Now this book is in our regular bedtime routine rotation with my toddler. She loves imitating the hand gestures and turning the pages of the book.
Book Quotes:
”We’re going on a bear hunt.
We’re going to catch a big one.
What a beautiful day!
We’re not scared.”
14. Everyone Poops
Author: Taro Gami
Book Reviews:
“The popular children’s book returns to print in a small format with the same bright orange cover and the same naive illustrations. The text has been shortened somewhat and a few creatures have been added to the original cast, but the most notable difference is the less vibrant color reproduction.” – Publishers Weekly
“This is an important title for those who are not yet toilet trained, and the concept of everyone pooping is presented in a matter-of-fact manner. While the original cover and illustrations have been retained, the text has been edited somewhat.” – School Library Journal
“While some may quibble with the assertion that ‘everyone’ poops, the book’s humor, candor, and matter-of-fact tone make it a favorite among youngsters.” – Booklist
“The message that everyone poops is important and valuable, but it’s not exactly conveyed in a particularly engaging or interesting way.” – Kirkus Reviews
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Everyone Poops by Taro Gomi is a humorous and educational children’s book that introduces young readers to the natural and universal process of pooping.
With its simple yet candid approach, the book aims to help children understand and accept pooping as a normal part of life.
The story begins with the assertion that everyone, from animals to humans, poops.
It then goes on to explore various examples of animals and their different types of poop, ranging from small droppings to large piles.
Taro Gomi’s whimsical and expressive illustrations capture the humor and playfulness of the subject matter.
The vibrant and engaging visuals depict animals in their natural habitats, engaging in various activities related to pooping.
I like this book because it teaches my toddler that pooping is a natural and necessary function for everyday life.
It encourages my toddler to feel comfortable and at ease with her pooping.
Everyone Poops promotes a healthy understanding of our bodies and fosters a sense of acceptance and normalcy surrounding a topic that is sometimes treated as taboo.
Book Quotes:
“An elephant makes a big poop.
A mouse makes a tiny poop.
A one-hump camel makes a one-hump poop.
A two-hump camel makes a two-hump poop.”
15. Hands Are Not For Hitting
Author: Martine Agassi
Book Reviews:
“This book provides the foundation for teaching children positive behaviors and responses to conflicts.” – School Library Journal
“With clear language and charming illustrations, this is a practical and empowering guide for both children and adults.” – Publishers Weekly
“A book that belongs in homes, schools and offices everywhere. With its engaging message, positive tone, and lovable illustrations, “Hands Are Not for Hitting” is a book that both children and adults will enjoy reading together.” – Midwest Book Review
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Hands Are Not for Hitting by Martine Agassi is a valuable children’s book that teaches young readers about using their hands in positive and non-violent ways.
Through simple and relatable examples, the book encourages children to understand and respect the power of their hands and to treat others with kindness and empathy.
The story begins by emphasizing that hands have many important and helpful purposes, such as saying hello, creating, building, and expressing love.
It then explores situations where hands should not be used for hitting, such as when feeling angry, frustrated, or upset. Instead, the book suggests alternative actions to express emotions and resolve conflict peacefully.
Hands Are Not for Hitting teaches children that using physical aggression is not an appropriate or effective way to communicate or solve problems.
I like how Hands Are Not for Hitting delivers the message about the power and responsibility of our hands.
It helps my toddler develop better social-emotional skills, understand the impact of her actions, and cultivates a foundation of empathy.
Book Quotes:
“Hands come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
There are lots of things your hands are meant to do.
Hands are for saying hello.
Glad to see you
Como estas
Gruten Tag
Ni Hao
Bonjour”
16. Teeth Are Not For Biting
Author: Elizabeth Verdick
Book Reviews:
“The artwork is colorful and child-friendly, and the message is very clear without being preachy. Highly recommended for any library or children’s book collection.” – School Library Journal
“This board book is a great introduction to biting and how to use teeth appropriately. It’s perfect for toddlers who are learning to navigate their social world.” – Foreword Reviews
“Parents, teachers, and caregivers will appreciate this gentle, yet effective, tool for preventing biting behavior.” – Midwest Book Review
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
Teeth Are Not for Biting by Elizabeth Verdick is a helpful and instructive children’s book that teaches young readers about appropriate behavior and the importance of using their teeth for positive purposes.
Through relatable examples and simple language, the book encourages children to understand the consequences of biting and to develop alternative ways to express themselves.
The story begins by emphasizing that teeth have important functions, such as eating, smiling, and talking.
It then explores situations where biting might occur, such as when feeling frustrated, angry, or overwhelmed.
Teeth Are Not for Biting highlights that biting hurts others and can lead to negative consequences, both for the person who bites and the person who is bitten.
The book presents scenarios where biting might be a temptation, such as during playtime, sharing toys, or when feeling provoked, and provides constructive alternatives like using words, seeking help, or finding other ways to express feelings.
My daughter went through a phase of biting other toddlers at daycare. This book was suggested to me by the daycare.
I was surprised that through repeated reading, it did help to eventually stop her behavior of biting other kids.
Book Quotes:
“Crunch! Crunch! Crunch!
Teeth are strong and sharp.
Crunch! Crunch! Crunch!
Teeth can help you chew.
But teeth are not for biting.
Ouch! Biting hurts.”
17. The Spooky Old Tree
Author: Stan Berenstain (Author), Jan Berenstain (Author)
Book Review:
“In this perfect-for-small-hands, sturdy board book version of a deliciously shivery, easy-to-read Berenstain Bears Bright and Early Book, three brave little bears explore the inside of a mysterious old tree and go into, up, through, over, down, and out. Simple rhyming text teaches the concept of directions as beginning readers enjoy a story and illustrations filled with thrills and chills of the gentlest kind.” – Chapters Indigo
Summary of this Toddler Children’s Book:
The Berenstain Bears and the Spooky Old Tree by Stan and Jan Berenstain is a beloved children’s book that takes toddlers on an exciting adventure with the lovable bear children.
In this story, the three bears explore a mysterious, spooky old tree.
With each turn of the page, the bears face various challenges including a windy staircase with crocodiles underneath, a spooky hall and a great big bear.
Working together, and using their tools (a light, stick and rope), they get through these challenges, get out of the tree and run safely home.
My toddler loves seeing these brave little bears go through the obstacles in this tree.
I love how The Spooky Old Tree encourages children to face their fears head-on.
Book Quotes:
“Three little bears.
One with a light. One with a stick. One with a rope.
A spooky old tree.
Do they dare go into that spooky old tree?
Yes. They dare.”
Overview of the Best Books for 1 Year Olds, 2 Year Olds and 3 Year Olds
Whether you have a 1 year old or a 3 year old, I hope this list of books for toddlers will ignite their imagination and foster language development for your little one.
Bursting with captivating illustrations, playful stories, and interactive elements, these books have created many treasured reading moments with our family.
They’ve been a delightful collection to read with my toddler.
If you’re interested in books for the Kindergarten stage, here are the best picture books for Kindergarten children.
Recap of Best Picture Books for Toddlers
- Press Here
- From Head to Toe
- Good Night, I Love You
- Ten Tiny Toes
- Goodnight Moon
- Are You My Mother?
- The Napping House
- Steam Train, Dream Train
- First Words and Numbers by Miles Kelly
- Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
- The Bedtime Book by Todd Parr
- The Velveteen Rabbit
- We’re Going On A Bear Hunt
- Everybody Poos
- Hands Are Not For Hitting
- Teeth Are Not For Biting
- The Berenstain Bears and the Spooky Old Tree
Related Articles for Best Picture Books for Toddlers:
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- How to do Montessori on a Budget
- Best Playroom Ideas on a Budget
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