What Are Good Kid’s Books About Compassion?
To help you find the perfect book to teach compassion to kids, we asked five founders and HR leaders for their top recommendations. From Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud to A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead, discover the best books on compassion and empathy, as suggested by these experts.
- Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud
- Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio
- The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
- A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead
Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud
If you want your kids to learn about compassion, Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud is an excellent book to start with. This award-winning picture book encourages children to show kindness and love towards others by filling each other’s invisible emotional buckets.
The simple yet powerful analogy of a bucket appeals to all ages, and the vibrant illustrations are sure to capture the attention of young readers. Have You Filled a Bucket Today? is not just a feel-good story but also makes children aware of the impact their actions have on other people’s emotions. Overall, it’s a delightful read and a perfect conversation starter for parents and teachers to talk about compassion with their kids.
Jefferson McCall
Co-founder and HR Head, TechBullish
Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson
When it comes to teaching children about compassion, Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson is an excellent choice. It tells the story of a young girl, Chloe, who ignores a new classmate that she deems different and undeserving of her kindness.
When her teacher gives a lesson on how our actions can have lasting effects, Chloe realizes the harm she caused by not showing compassion and misses her chance to make things right. This book helps children understand the importance of treating everyone with kindness, empathy, and understanding.
Through its thought-provoking narrative, realistic illustrations, and heartfelt message, Each Kindness is an impactful and necessary read for kids of all ages.
Basana Saha
Founder, KidsCareIdeas
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
If you’re looking for a book on compassion for kids, I highly recommend Wonder by R.J. Palacio. The story follows a boy named August who has a facial deformity, and how he navigates school and friendships with the help of his family and classmates.
The book not only teaches kids about compassion and empathy but also about standing up for what’s right and being true to oneself. It’s an emotional and impactful read that both kids and adults can enjoy and learn from.
Tarun Saha
Co-founder and CEO, StallionZo
The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
One great book about compassion for kids is The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld. This story follows Taylor, a young rabbit, as he has a variety of big feelings and experiences after something difficult happens.
Through the help of various animal friends, Taylor learns to be compassionate with himself and others. This heartfelt story encourages children to explore their emotions in a healthy way and shows them the importance of compassion for themselves and those around them.
Gabriel Bogner
Co-founder, Mate Fertility
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead
This is a wonderful book that teaches compassion to kids. It tells the story of Amos, a kind zookeeper who takes care of his animal friends every day. When Amos gets sick, his friends return the favor by visiting him and providing comfort.
This heartwarming tale showcases the importance of empathy, friendship, and showing kindness to others in their time of need. Through beautiful illustrations and a gentle narrative, the book helps children understand the value of compassion and how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life.
Reading A Sick Day for Amos McGee to kids provides an opportunity to discuss empathy, compassion, and the importance of being there for others.
Ben Lau
Founder, Featured SEO Company
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