AGES — 3-7 years

THE SCOOP — A good reminder about the magic of ones’ community? The spirited and heartwarming story, Good People Everywhere. Vibrant illustrations shed light on the mryiad of kind and helpful acts carried out by people of all shapes and sizes from all walks of life. As mindfulness and appreciation of such caring individuals is emphasized, the tiniest community members (your kiddo!) can begin thinking about their own unique contribution.

STORYTIME EXTENSION: The end of this book asks, “Today, millions of people will do very good things. And so will you. I wonder what you will do?” Ask your child, what kinds of good things do you want to do today? How about this week? Or this coming year? As you encounter some of the simple, lovely examples illustrated in this book, point them out!

AGES — 4 to 8 years

THE SCOOP — While enjoying a camping trip with her classmates, Kiko realizes the many things in her life she’s grateful for. Hint: family, friendships, and her blessings thus far. This brand new book (released last month!) is sure to be a delightful read about perspective with a fun dose of adventure!

STORYTIME EXTENSION- This is a perfect time to reflect on all the things you are grateful for! Pull out a piece of paper (and stickers and markers!) and help your kiddo make a list of all the things they are grateful for! When you’re done helping them write it, let them decorate it!

AGES — 3 to 7 years

THE SCOOP — A retelling of the classic folktale, Androcles and the Lion, shares the story of a young boy and an unlikely new friend — a mighty lion! As the pair selflessly help one another out, a delightful story about the importance of kindness, generosity, and gratitude unfolds for little one’s to absorb.

STORYTIME EXTENSION- This book shows what happens when we assume the WORST out of others – (the lion looks angry and the townspeople are scared!). What happens when we do this?

Book pairing pro tip! Read: The Kindness Quilt by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace which uses the same Aesop fable as the backdrop for a class kindness project. See if younger kiddos can pick up on the similarities and differences in the two stories.

AGES — 1-3 years

THE SCOOP — What’s Bear to do? He wants to throw a big feast for his friends as a sign of thanks and gratitude. But his cupboards are bare! One by one as Bear’s friends show up (each with food in tow to share), he realizes just how lucky he is to have his squad of friends.

STORYTIME EXTENSION- See if kiddos can complete the rhyme with you! Each phrase ends with “and the bear says thanks!” This book has so many animal friends, there are lots of opportunities for animal noises and to ask extended questions: “The bird is brewing tea, have you ever had tea? Was it hot or cold? Sweet or spicy?”