5 Gratitude Books for Kids for Your Classroom

Hi teacher-friends! Are you looking for ways to encourage gratitude and social-emotional learning in your classroom? In this blog post, I'll be sharing five “thankful read alouds” for kids that are perfect for the classroom and Thanksgiving.

The Thank You Book by Mo Willems: Mo Willems brings us a delightful addition to the Elephant & Piggie series! In The Thank You Book, Elephant Gerald and Piggie explore the art of expressing gratitude to those who have made a positive impact in their lives. This lighthearted yet meaningful story is a wonderful way to introduce the concept of gratitude through some of their favorite characters.
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña: Winner of the Newbery Medal, Last Stop on Market Street beautifully captures the journey of young CJ and his grandmother as they travel through their community. Along the way, they encounter people and situations that inspire CJ to discover the beauty and gratitude in the world around him. This book not only emphasizes gratitude, but also highlights the importance of empathy and appreciation for diverse experiences.
Gracias / Thanks by Pat Mora: Bilingual classrooms will particularly appreciate Gracias / Thanks. This beautifully illustrated book explores gratitude in both English and Spanish, celebrating the various things the young protagonist is thankful for.
Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson: Join Bear and his forest friends in "Bear Says Thanks," a heartwarming story of friendship and gratitude. When Bear wants to host a feast but realizes he has nothing to contribute, his friends come to the rescue by each bringing a dish. This book emphasizes the joy of giving and receiving while showcasing the powerful impact of expressing gratitude within a community.
I Am Thankful by Sheri Wall: If you’re looking for a Thanksgiving-specific book about gratitude, I Am Thankful is the perfect choice!