Top 10 Story Books That Teach Kids Under 5 About Kindness

Aesop said, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Like any other parent, you too would want your child to have all the moral values that you have and learn the things that you learnt as a child from being honest and kind and responsible. After all, we all want to keep our children away from getting in any trouble or taking up any bad habits.

Unlike adults who decide if they should or shouldn’t do something or who know how their actions affect the world around them, kids lack this understanding. They don’t know what they should do or how their actions can affect the people around them. They only know what others tell them. What YOU tell them. While it is not easy to teach them alphabets or different animals and trees, it’s even more difficult to teach them certain values.

Books are the greatest teacher. After parents, of course! And we understand how teaching values like honesty and kindness are difficult for parents. That’s why we have gathered a list of interesting storybooks that teach your little ones about kindness.

1. “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?”

Carol McCloud

An engaging book about “bucket filling.” Teach kids to show kindness and respect to others, filling their invisible buckets along the way.

2.“Finding Kindness”

Deborah Underwood

Celebrate kindness in everyday life. It’s not always big; sometimes it’s the small acts that matter most.

3.“The Kindness Book”

Todd Parr

A colorful picture book that reminds us what kindness looks like. Be kind to others and to yourself—even when mistakes happen.

4.“Try a Little Kindness”

Henry Cole

A funny picture book that shows young kids how to be kind. Spot the characters who are doing their best (and those who need a little help).

5.“The Rainbow Fish”

Marcus Pfister

An international best-seller and modern classic. The Rainbow Fish learns the joy of sharing and kindness.

6.“Those Shoes”

Maribeth Boelts

A heartwarming story about empathy and the importance of giving.

7.“Most People”

Michael Leannah

A gentle reminder that most people are kind and good-hearted.

8.“Last Stop on Market Street”

Matt de la Peña

A beautiful tale of a boy and his grandmother, discovering kindness in unexpected places.

9.“Stick and Stone”

Beth Ferry

A sweet story about friendship, kindness, and standing up for each other.

10.“Wonder”

R.J. Palacio

While not a picture book, this middle-grade novel teaches empathy, kindness, and acceptance. A must-read for older kids.