3 Thanksgiving Books for Toddlers and Preschoolers

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Choosing books about Thanksgiving for young children can be tricky. Lots of Thanksgiving books aren't kid-friendly, given the historical events associated with this holiday. Add in the picture Montessori perspective on books, and you don't have much left. Luckily, I found 3 books that you can read to your children during this holiday without causing any harm. These books celebrate togetherness, happiness, giving, and sharing and help your child understand what thankfulness means.

My heart fills with happiness by MONIQUE GRAY SMITH

This short board book helps your child to reflect on small, seemingly ordinary things that bring them happiness. It starts by saying, "My heart fills with happiness when.." This sentence prompts your child to think about his examples and is a great conversation starter about the topic. Short text and beautiful illustrations depicting Indigenous children and their families will catch even your young toddler's attention. You can read this book the whole year-round, not just during Thanksgiving week.

Thanksgiving Treat by CATHERINE STOCK

This story is about a little boy and his family who are getting everything ready for Thanksgiving dinner. Grandma and mom are stuffing the turkey. His sister and cousins are peeling potatoes. His auntie is making a pumpkin pie. Everyone is busy getting the dinner and house ready except for the little boy. And anytime he asks to help, his help is turned down. Luckily, grandpa notices his disappointment and asks him to help him pick up some chestnuts to roast in the oven. This story is not just about Thanksgiving. It shows us the desire of a young child to contribute to his family with meaningful activity. What a great reminder for us adults to include our little ones not only during Thanksgiving preparations but during other activities all year round.

I Am Thankful BY SHERI WALL

This book shows us how different families celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with their relatives and loved ones. The story stresses the importance of family time, giving, sharing, and feeling thankful for all the things related to this holiday. For example, shopping for Thanksgiving dinner, cleaning the house, going to the pumpkin patch, helping to make a pie, or spending time with cousins. At the end of the book, you can find a few ideas that will help you foster gratitude in your children, such as writing thank-you cards or making a family thankfulness tree.


What are your favorite books about Thanksgiving? Please share them in the comments below.

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