Top 5 Children’s Books That Teach Kindness & Empathy

There are a variety of children’s books on the shelves and online.

Some are humorous, some are educational, and others focus on encouraging positive values and behaviours in young minds.

Kindness and empathy, especially in the modern-day world, are the best values to instil in children.

If you’re a teacher, a tutor, or a parent looking to teach your child about the importance of kindness and empathy, then you’re in luck.

We’ve compiled a list of the top 6 children’s books that will do just that!

1. “Wonder” by R.J Palacio

“Wonder” is a multi-million best-selling novel turned movie that focuses on the main character, August “Auggie” Pullman, ‘s journey to school acceptance.

Born with a facial deformity that makes him an outsider in his new school, Auggie must navigate through bullying and exclusion while remaining kind and empathetic towards his peers.

This heartwarming story teaches children the power of kindness, acceptance, and empathy in building strong relationships with others.

2. “Kindness Makes Us Strong” by Sophie Beer

“Kindness Makes Us Strong” is a vibrant and engaging board book that teaches children about the different acts of kindness they can do for others in their daily lives.

From sharing toys to saying “please” and “thank you,” this book emphasises the importance of being kind to everyone, regardless of differences or backgrounds.

The colourful illustrations and simple language make it a perfect read for younger children.

3. “I Walk with Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness” by Kerascoët

“I Walk with Vanessa” is a beautifully illustrated wordless picture book depicting the power of standing up against bullying through kindness.

When a new girl at school is bullied, one student decides to walk with her and be her friend, inspiring others to do the same.

This book teaches children that one simple act of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life and encourages them to be brave and stand up for what is right.

The fact that the book is wordless also allows children to use their imagination and interpretation, allowing for deeper understanding and connection with the characters.

4. “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B White

“Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White is a classic tale of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice. It centres around a young pig named Wilbur and his unexpected friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. This story highlights the beauty of compassion and selflessness.

Set on a rural farm, Wilbur faces the grim reality of his fate, but Charlotte devises a plan to save him by weaving words into her web to make him seem extraordinary. This touching narrative captivates young readers and provides valuable lessons about the deep bonds of friendship and the lengths to which we can go to protect and support those we care about.

With its enduring themes and memorable characters, Charlotte’s Web is a beloved favourite among readers of all ages.

5. “The BFG” by Roald Dahl

“The BFG” by Roald Dahl is a fantastical adventure story that transports readers into the world of giants, where not all giants are the same. The tale follows Sophie, a young orphan, who befriends the Big Friendly Giant (BFG).

Unlike his fearsome counterparts who feast on humans, the BFG is gentle and kind-hearted, preferring to eat snozzcumbers and drink frobscottle.

Together, Sophie and the BFG embark on a mission to stop the other giants from their nightmarish escapades. Through playful language and whimsical word inventions, Dahl crafts an enchanting narrative that champions the values of friendship and courage.

The story encourages young readers to celebrate differences and embrace the power of kindness, making it a timeless classic that continues to capture the hearts of readers worldwide.

With its larger-than-life characters and imaginative plot, “The BFG” is a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling and heartwarming adventure.

6. “The Invisible Boy” by Trudy Ludwig

This gentle story teaches how small acts of kindness can make a big impact. Written by Trudy Ludwig and illustrated by Patrice Barton, “The Invisible Boy” tells the story of Brian, a quiet and overlooked boy who often feels invisible to his classmates.

But when a new student named Justin arrives, he sees Brian for who he truly is – a kind and creative individual with so much to offer. Through Justin’s simple acts of inclusion and friendship, Brian begins to feel seen and valued by his peers.

“The Invisible Boy” beautifully and heartwarmingly explores themes of empathy, friendship, and the power of acceptance. It encourages young readers to think about how their actions can affect others and celebrate every student’s uniqueness.

Nurture Hearts, One Story At A Time!

Children’s books are more than just stories; they build empathy and kindness in young minds.

Gather the children’s books mentioned above, and nurture their hearts one story at a time.

At Tutor Doctor, we believe that reading is not just a skill but a key to unlocking a child’s imagination and improving their emotional intelligence.

During our tutoring services, we always encourage reading as a way to expand young children’s horizons.

Contact us today for more information.