Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B Schiffer (Preschool)
At her school, Stella’s teacher announces that they will have a Mother’s Day celebration, but Stella doesn’t have a mother to bring. She has two daddies and many other relatives who care for her instead. How will Stella solve the “problem” of whom to invite to the party? ▸ Get it at the Library
Mommy’s Khimar by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow (Toddler, Preschool)
A young girl admires her mother’s collection of khimar (headscarves), especially her favorite of them all – the beautiful yellow one that makes her feel like a queen with a golden train. Wearing one makes her feel special and connected to her mother. This book celebrates the unbridled happiness of one Muslim child, her family, and members of her Muslim community. ▸ Get it at the Library
One Family by George Shannon (Toddler)
“One is one and everyone.” This charmingly illustrated book introduces the idea that though we are all different and unique, we are all part of one family and community. It also pulls double duty as a fun counting book. ▸ Get it at the Library
My Family, Your Family by Lisa Bullard (Preschool)
This nonfiction book about families is perfect to introduce preschoolers to all the different ways that families can be structured, such as differing numbers of parents and children in individual homes. How are families different and how are they alike? What makes each one just right? ▸ Get it at the Library
Baby Parade by Rebecca O’Connell (Infant, Toddler)
Illustrations and simple text follow babies as they walk, crawl, ride in strollers, or are carried while enjoying a day with their families. Sure to become a favorite with littles! ▸ Get it at the Library
Loretta’s Gift by Pat Zietlow Miller (Preschool)
When Loretta’s cousin is born, she wants to give the baby a gift, just likes the grownups do, but she’s not sure what she should give. As baby grows in his first year, Loretta helps her aunt and uncle take care of him, playing games, calming him when he’s upset, and showering him with time and attention. Sometimes the best gift of all cannot be put in a box and wrapped with a ribbon. ▸ Get it at the Library
These resources were recommended by Samantha Blanquart, an Early Literacy Outreach Librarian with Ready to Read Resource Center. Visit their website for more info about early literacy or to check out one of their reading kits for young children.
Imagination Library Picks:
Pup and Bear by Kate Banks (Toddler, Preschool)
This deeply emotional read-aloud about a lost wolf pup who is raised by a loving polar bear is sure to resonate with families – particularly non-traditional ones. ▸ Get it at the Library
The Ring Bearer by Floyd Cooper (Preschool)
Jackson’s mama is getting married, and he gets to be the ring bearer. But Jackson is worried . . . What if he trips? Or walks too slowly? Or drops the rings? And what about his new stepsister, Sophie? She’s supposed to be the flower girl, but Jackson’s not sure she’s taking her job as seriously as she should. ▸ Get it at the Library
I Love My Daddy Because… by Laurel Porter Gaylord (Infant, Toddler)
This book begins with a heartwarming scene between a human parent and child, but moves on to loving care in many animal families. “He sings me songs,” says a gray wolf cub. “He keeps me safe and warm,” says a young penguin. Children will love reading about how baby animals spend time with their dads, and daddies everywhere will love celebrating Father’s Day—or any occassion!—with this adorable gift from their little ones.
▸ Get it at the Library
