There are so many things that form and shape the character of our children. Our example as parents is one very important part of the character training process. However, have you ever thought though about how books teach character as well? Books teach values and behaviors to our children, so it is important to make sure they are reading wholesome books that promote Godly character.
Your kids will love these 15 books that teach character:
(I’ve listed these from the youngest ages up to the oldest. Keep in mind that the ages shown are just suggested. Most of them are appropriate for a wide age range.)
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1. Miss Molly’s School of Manners – Ages 3+
Young or old, this book is a book for anyone needing to brush up on their manners. It is also hilarious, so you can be sure that your kids will enjoy it! Fun reading is one of the best ways for kids to learn and remember.
2. Aesop’s Stories for Little Children – Ages 3+
The illustrations in this book are great, and I love the moral lessons that are taught. Your kids will discover the antics and adventures of a boastful hare, a helpful mouse, a greedy dog and many more in these stories.
3. Billy the Goat’s Big Breakfast – Ages 3-7
This is a great story to show children the need to be patient. I also love the gentle lesson that it teaches about not being greedy, and controlling our actions.
4. Jonathan James & The What-if Monster Ages 3-7
This book is really great for any age. Young children who are afraid of going to school, going to the doctor, making new friends OR teenagers graduating from high school, going to college, adults stepping into new careers, etc. It is a sweet, inspiring (funny and entertaining) story that teaches the importance of courage.
5. Dog & Mouse Ages 3-7
In this cute story, Dog needs a best friend and Mouse agrees to help him look. Day after day after day, they search together. When Mouse is late one day, Dog realizes that what he sought has been right before his eyes all along! This story teaches the true meaning of friendship.
6. Cordelia – Ages 3-7
This is such a wonderful book! While the book may be about Cordelia flying, it teaches children the importance of not changing who they are because of what other people think. The story is simple and encourages self-confidence in kids.
7. The Thank You Dish – Ages 3-8
This book has awesome illustrations which make it all the more enjoyable for your children. They will learn about the importance of having a spirit of thankfulness and gratitude, along with the little girl in the story.
8. Can I Join Your Club? – Ages 4-8
I LOVE this book! It teaches such a great lesson about feeling left out and remembering to not treat others that way. It is great for teaching the Biblical concept of treating others the way you want to be treated. Duck does a really good job of being sure no one feels left out of his club!
9. Jessica’s Box – Ages 4-8
Will Jessica find a friend at school? It’s not easy when you’re shy, so every day she brings her cardboard box filled with something different to share. Finally, she discovers that all she truly needs to share is herself. Great story about having self-confidence, and making friends.
10. Tale of 2 Beasts – Ages 5-7
When a little girl rescues a strange beast from the woods, she takes him home. But for some reason, the little beast is not happy! There are two sides to every story, and this funny and charming tale is no exception. This book teaches children the need to have perspective, and know that it’s okay to be different.
11. Do Nice, Be Kind – Ages 7+
This activity book is full of ideas for kids to encourage kids to think of ways to encourage others and “pay it forward” to those around them. Some of the activities include walking someone’s dog, sending an unbirthday card, “collecting”smiles throughout the day, writing a note to your mail person thanking them for delivering your mail and many other fun ideas! (This would be a GREAT idea for the summer!)
12. Be The Change – Make It Happen – Ages 7+
This activity book has such with a great message for kids. It teaches children that they can make a difference with little actions that have big consequences. A great book to teach children that all it takes is something small to make a person’s day & make the world a better place!
Books for Kids ages 8+ That Teach Character:
13. Hello Happy – 8+
This is an activity book for young people who sometimes feel sad or angry. It’s a great resource for encouraging them to learn how to regulate and deal with their emotions in practical, fun ways. It also includes doodling and journal pages that are good for a wide range of ages.
14. Aesop’s Illustrated Fables – Ages 8+
This timeless collection of over thirty fables is filled with Aesop’s best-loved characters. The stories contain many moral lessons. Meet the lion who becomes friends with a mouse, a clever fox, a foolish crow and a wolf dressed up as a sheep. I love how the book is divided into character themes such as greed, pride, etc.
15. No Worries! – Ages 8+
This is a great book to help your child who struggles with worry or anxiety, as you work on teaching them to be confident and calm. This activity book has fun coloring and doodling pages to help your children learn how to handle their worries.
Things are often best remembered when taught by a story, so be sure you have lots of books that teach character in your home. Put them on the end tables, in bookcases, in every room, etc. Your kids won’t be able to resist them, and it will be a reminder to YOU also to keep reading to the little ones!
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