Sue Thompson/With the snow slowly melting away and the days stretching longer, we can definitely feel that spring is just around the corner. What better way to prepare our children for this beautiful season of growth and renewal than by poring over richly illustrated picture books? I will share a few of our favourites with you in hopes that you find a new treasure to enjoy with your littles.
Board Books For Babies & Toddlers (Ages 0-3)
The Book Of Spring by Agnese Baruzzi
Introduces the very youngest of bibliophiles to the wonders of spring. Each full-colour page features a beautiful image and a word associated with this wondrous season. This book is a perfect way to expand a young child’s vocabulary in a gentle way.
What Will Hatch? by Jennifer Ward
Features eight different animals that emerge from eggs and begin their lives in the springtime, from birds to tadpoles; this tale has them all. The engaging text perfectly complements the unique illustrations in this charming yet educational book. What a beautiful way to help teach your child the wonders of nature.
When Spring Comes by Kevin Henkes
Introduces children to the slow yet steady change that occurs from winter to spring. Striking illustrations pair the rich yet simple text to create a perfect “picture” of what spring feels like. You can almost feel the cool chill of winter pass by as the story ends with the warmth of spring.
Picture Books (Ages 3+)
If You Hold A Seed by Elly MacKay
This will be one that takes your breath away. Elly’s enchanting illustrations take us along on the journey of a small but mighty seed. With a focus on love and patience, this book is sure to inspire your little dreamers.
Spring Thaw by Steven Schnur
This book is a must-read this season. Filled to the brim with colourful images and descriptive text, this book invites us to have a peek at farm life at winter’s end. Steven shares a glimpse at the cycle of life as the warmer days unfold.
Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring by Kenard Pak
Shares the excitement that the longer days ahead bring. A boy and his dog stroll through this tale, saying goodbye to the melting snow of winter and hello to the chirping and sprouting signs of spring. This series is a beautiful way to introduce children to the skill of observing seasonal changes in nature.
And Then It's Spring by Julie Fogliano
A truly unique observation of one of the most sought after signs of spring…the colour green! A young boy works tirelessly to plant a garden and then the wait begins. The illustrations will keep your littles entertained as this book progresses from white to brown to the lush and highly desired green!
We hope you enjoy these beautiful works of art as the first signs of spring unfold around you. They are sure to inspire new adventures and excitement for the wonders of the season. If you are looking for more Spring Picture Book Ideas please visit our full list here.
You may also enjoy: Nurturing Your Child to be a Naturalist, Why School Libraries (Still) Matter, and Help Your Kids Find Natural Settings, Even In Urban Areas.
