Who doesn't love the holidays? I've created a list of heart-warming holiday-themed children's books you can read with your children, grandchildren, or students. Spend some screen-free time reading these fantastic Christmas stories. They also make great stocking stuffers. These are fantastic books for teachers to read to their classes during the month of December. As always, I only recommend books that are top-rated and have been enjoyed by my own family.
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Christmas Picture Books for Kids:
by Stacy C. Bauer
Cami and Wyatt Share the Christmas Spirit is a heartwarming story about spreading joy and kindness. Cami and Wyatt love all things Christmas. They love Santa, the decorations, and the cookies. This year, Cami and Wyatt notice that their neighbors seem sad. Can this lovable duo figure out how to share the true meaning of Christmas?
This brand-new book for the holidays was just released last fall and is already one of the top Christmas books for kids this year. Readers love Cami and Wyatt Share the Christmas Spirit. Parents, grandparents, and teachers will enjoy reading this book about friendship that will inspire kids to spread joy and kindness.
by Sherri Duskey Rinker
This adorably illustrated story follows Excavator and his friends as they build a new home for the fire engines. While they work hard to make the home for the fire engines, they each receive a Christmas surprise of their own. Children and parents enjoy reading this Christmas night story full of rhyme and magic.
by Rose Rossner
A sweet rhyming story that celebrates the special bond between a Grandmother and her grandchild. Grandma's Sugar Cookie board book includes a bonus cookie recipe in the back.
by Phyllis Alsdurf
A story that encourages children and families to focus on simple pleasures, such as connection, community, care, and generosity. In this heartwarming story, a little girl is unsure about Christmas when she finds out that her family is planning a simple Christmas. Throughout the story, she gets into the spirit of simplicity and generosity by doing things for others and making things with her family. As a bonus, the book includes step-by-step directions for creating handmade Christmas gifts.
by Chris Van Allsburg
A young boy is welcomed aboard a magical train headed to the North Pole where he will make his Christmas wish. The Polar Express is a must-read award-winning classic holiday story.
by Ben Clanton
Dive into the spirit of the holidays with Narwhal as he celebrates his favorite season of all. Much like a child is excited about the arrival of Santa Claus, Narwhal is excited about the arrival of the Merry Mermicorn (part mermaid, part unicorn, and totally awesome). As usual, Ben Clanton does a fantastic job at delivering funny and engaging stories for children.
by Matt Tavares
Who knew Dasher used to be part of a traveling circus? She spends her days in the hot sun longing for a different life. She longed for a life filled with snow and magic. One day, Dasher seizes the opportunity to make her dreams come true, and after that, nothing will ever be the same.
by Karma Wilson
Bear has a hard time staying awake during the winter, but his friends are determined to keep him awake for Christmas. Wait and see who ultimately stays awake and gives his friends a wonderful Christmas. Bear Stays Up for Christmas is a beautiful book filled with many conversation starters, such as the power of gift-giving, friendship, why Bear was having trouble staying awake, and more.
by Mo Willems
Kids' favorite pigeon is back! If you're looking for a holiday book that will bring giggles and laughs to your young child, then look no further than Don't Let the Pigeon drive the Sleigh! by Mo Willems. It's a holiday twist to Mo Willems' Don't Let the Pigeon Ride the Bus.
by Erin Guendelsberger
The Little Red Sleigh is a combination of the Little Engine that Could and The Polar Express. A heart-warming story about a sleigh who's been told all her life that she was too small, too young, can't fly, and would definitely not meet Santa. This Christmas, with the help of her friends, she is determined to triumph.
by Mac Barnett
Will Santa Stop Here? is a contemporary rendition of a Christmas story. An uplifting story that is sure to alleviate some fears children may have with all the craziness of the world today.
by Ryan Higgins
Bruce may be a lot of things, but he most certainly is NOT Santa Clause. However, by another case of mistaken identity, the whole forest is lining up to give Bruce their Christmas wishes. Award-winning author-illustrator Ryan Higgins delivers another hilarious story about grumpy Bruce.
by Gideon Sterer
A charming story based on the true story of the owl found inside the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. When the little Owl's home is cut down, because people thought it would make a wonderful tree, she is not really digging Christmas anymore. She is then saved by a woman named Ellen, who has a home gleefully decorated for the holidays. Will the little owl ever feel Christmas cheer again? The Christmas Owl is a story about kindness and regaining the Christmas spirit.