20 best books on being gentle for toddlers – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you searching for the perfect book on being gentle for toddlers? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 20 best books that teach young children the importance of kindness, empathy, and gentleness. These heartwarming stories will not only captivate your little one’s imagination but also impart valuable life lessons. From adorable animal characters to enchanting illustrations, these being gentle for toddlers books are sure to become cherished favorites in your home. So, let’s dive into this delightful collection and discover the magic of gentleness together!


Be Kind

by Pat Zietlow Miller

‘Be Kind’ by Pat Zietlow Miller is a heartwarming and compassionate book about fostering kindness and empathy in young children. This delightful story is a perfect tool to introduce the concept of being gentle and considerate to toddlers. It encourages little ones to embrace the power of small acts of kindness and teaches them how their actions can impact others in a positive way. With beautiful illustrations and a gentle narrative, this book on fostering empathy is a must-have for parents and educators looking to instill values of compassion and understanding in their little ones.

The Rabbit Listened

by Cori Doerrfeld

The Rabbit Listened is a heartwarming book on being gentle for toddlers that teaches the importance of empathy and understanding. In this beautifully illustrated story, children will discover the power of listening and how it can help heal and comfort others. Through the gentle and patient presence of the rabbit, they will learn that sometimes, all we need is someone to listen and understand without judgment. This book about being gentle for toddlers is a reminder that being kind and compassionate can make a world of difference in someone’s life. So, if you’re searching for a being gentle for toddlers book that promotes empathy and emotional intelligence, The Rabbit Listened is the perfect choice!

Little Mole’s Wish

by Sang-Keun Kim

Little Mole’s Wish is a heartwarming book on being gentle for toddlers that will tug at your heartstrings. This delightful story, written and illustrated by Sang-Keun Kim, takes young readers on a journey of discovery, teaching them the importance of compassion and empathy.

In this book about being gentle for toddlers, we follow Little Mole, a curious and mischievous creature, as he embarks on an adventure to fulfill his greatest wish. Along the way, he encounters various animals in need of help, and it is through his acts of kindness that he learns the true power of being gentle.

With vibrant illustrations and a simple yet impactful storyline, this being gentle for toddlers book captures the essence of nurturing and caring for others. Through Little Mole’s experiences, children will understand the significance of treating both animals and people with tenderness and respect.

Little Mole’s Wish is the perfect tool for parents and caregivers to introduce the concept of gentleness to young children. It encourages empathy and teaches valuable life lessons that will stay with them as they grow. Dive into this charming tale and discover the magic of being gentle!

The Invisible Boy

by Trudy Ludwig

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is a heartwarming book on being gentle for toddlers that explores the power of kindness and inclusivity. Through captivating illustrations and a relatable story, this book about being gentle for toddlers encourages children to value and appreciate the unique qualities of others.

Inspired by the theme of empathy, The Invisible Boy tells the story of Brian, a quiet and overlooked boy who often goes unnoticed by his classmates. With a blend of compassion and understanding, the author beautifully portrays the impact of exclusion and the importance of making everyone feel seen and valued.

Through the simple act of kindness from a new student, Brian starts to bloom. The story teaches young readers about the significance of empathy, friendship, and embracing differences. It emphasizes the power of small gestures that can make a big difference in someone’s life.

This being gentle for toddlers book acts as a gentle reminder to children that kindness and inclusivity are essential qualities to cultivate. It encourages them to be aware of others’ feelings, to be compassionate, and to reach out to those who may feel invisible.

Overall, The Invisible Boy is a beautiful and engaging book on being gentle for toddlers that teaches children about empathy, friendship, and the importance of making everyone feel included. It serves as a valuable resource for parents, educators, and caregivers to introduce young children to the power of kindness and the beauty of embracing diversity.

The Kindness Book

by Todd Parr

The Kindness Book by Todd Parr is a delightful book on being gentle for toddlers. With vibrant illustrations and simple text, this book about being gentle for toddlers teaches young readers the importance of kindness, empathy, and compassion. Through Parr’s signature colorful and playful style, children are introduced to various ways they can show kindness in their everyday lives. From sharing toys to helping others, this being gentle for toddlers book is a wonderful tool for parents and caregivers to encourage positive behavior and foster a culture of kindness from a young age.

Hug Machine

by Scott Campbell

Hug Machine by Scott Campbell is a heartwarming and delightful book about the power of hugs and being gentle for toddlers. With its charming illustrations and endearing storyline, this book is the perfect tool to teach young children about the importance of kindness, tenderness, and compassion. It gently encourages little ones to embrace their nurturing side and spread love through the simple act of giving hugs. Hug Machine is an absolute must-read for parents and caregivers who want to instill the values of empathy and gentleness in their toddlers.

The Snail and the Whale

by Julia Donaldson

The Snail and the Whale is a captivating book on being gentle for toddlers written by Julia Donaldson. This heartwarming story takes young readers on an incredible adventure, teaching them about the importance of kindness, empathy, and compassion.

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!

by Mo Willems

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! by Mo Willems is a delightful book on nurturing kindness and tenderness in young children. This heartwarming story captures the essence of being gentle for toddlers in a fun and engaging way. As the pigeon stumbles upon a tempting hot dog, it encounters a little duckling who also has its eyes on the scrumptious treat. Through a series of humorous and endearing interactions, the pigeon learns the value of sharing and being considerate towards others. This book about being gentle for toddlers is a must-read for parents and caregivers who wish to instill empathy and compassion in their little ones. So, dive into the world of the pigeon and discover the joy of being gentle for toddlers!

The Lion Inside

by Rachel Bright

The Lion Inside by Rachel Bright is a heartwarming and beautifully illustrated book about being gentle for toddlers. It tells the tale of a timid little mouse who dreams of being fierce like a lion. In this book on being gentle for toddlers, the mouse embarks on a courageous journey to find his inner roar, teaching young readers about courage, kindness, and the power of friendship along the way. With its enchanting story and vibrant illustrations, this being gentle for toddlers book is sure to captivate young imaginations and inspire them to embrace their unique qualities.

The Berenstain Bears: Kindness Counts

by Jan Berenstain

The Berenstain Bears: Kindness Counts is a heartwarming book on being gentle for toddlers that teaches children the importance of kindness and compassion.

Join the lovable Berenstain Bears as they navigate through various situations, demonstrating the value of treating others with gentleness and respect. From sharing toys to helping a friend in need, this delightful book about being gentle for toddlers is filled with valuable life lessons.

Through colorful illustrations and relatable characters, Jan Berenstain skillfully captures the attention of young readers, engaging them in an entertaining story while subtly instilling the idea of being gentle for toddlers. Children will learn that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day.

With its simple yet powerful message, The Berenstain Bears: Kindness Counts is a must-read being gentle for toddlers book. It encourages empathy, empathy, and understanding, fostering a positive mindset that will shape the way children interact with others.

The Giving Tree

by Shel Silverstein

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein is a heartwarming and timeless book about kindness and empathy. This beloved classic is a gentle reminder of the importance of generosity and selflessness. It is a book that teaches young children about the beauty of giving and nurturing relationships. The Giving Tree is an essential addition to any child’s library, serving as a book on tenderness and compassion for young readers. Its powerful message resonates with both children and adults alike, making it a must-read for any age.

Have You Filled a Bucket Today?

by Carol McCloud

Have you ever wondered how to teach young children about the power of kindness and compassion? Look no further than Have You Filled a Bucket Today? This heartwarming book is a delightful journey into the world of being gentle for toddlers.

Written by Carol McCloud, this enchanting tale introduces the concept of “bucket filling” to young readers. Instead of using the term “being gentle for toddlers,” McCloud uses the metaphor of filling a bucket to explain the importance of kindness and empathy.

In the book, every person has an invisible bucket that can be filled with acts of love, kindness, and appreciation. When we are kind to others, we fill their buckets and our own. On the other hand, when we are mean or hurtful, we dip into someone else’s bucket and empty our own.

This book is an engaging and visually appealing way to teach children about the power of their words and actions. Through colorful illustrations and simple language, McCloud demonstrates the profound impact of being gentle for toddlers.

By introducing the concept of bucket filling, Have You Filled a Bucket Today? encourages children to be mindful of their behavior and empowers them to make a positive difference in the lives of others. It promotes empathy, compassion, and gratitude in a way that young children can understand and appreciate.

If you’re looking for a book about being gentle for toddlers, this delightful story is a must-read. It will not only entertain your little ones but also inspire them to be kind and considerate individuals. So, grab a copy of Have You Filled a Bucket Today? and embark on a beautiful journey of bucket filling and being gentle for toddlers!

The Kindness Quilt

by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace

The Kindness Quilt by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace is a heartwarming book on being gentle for toddlers. It tells the story of a young rabbit named Minna who learns the importance of kindness and compassion. Through beautiful illustrations and simple language, this book about being gentle for toddlers teaches valuable lessons about empathy, friendship, and inclusion.

The story revolves around Minna’s school project, where each student is asked to contribute a square to create a kindness quilt. The quilt represents the unique qualities and acts of kindness that make each child special. As the children share their experiences, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own acts of kindness and how they can make a difference in the lives of others.

The Kindness Quilt is a delightful being gentle for toddlers book that promotes positive values and encourages young readers to treat others with respect and kindness. It emphasizes the power of small gestures and reminds children that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a big impact. This beautifully crafted book is the perfect tool to introduce toddlers to the importance of empathy and compassion in an engaging and relatable way.

The Littlest Family’s Big Day

by Emily Winfield Martin

The Littlest Family’s Big Day by Emily Winfield Martin is a heartwarming book about kindness for young children. In this delightful tale, readers follow the adventures of the littlest family as they explore their new home in the big woods. As they encounter different animals and creatures, they learn the importance of being gentle and considerate towards others.

The Kindness Elves

by Anna Ranson

The Kindness Elves by Anna Ranson is a delightful book about fostering kindness and compassion in young children. It is a heartwarming tale that encourages little ones to be gentle and caring towards others. This enchanting story is filled with colorful illustrations and lovable characters that will capture the imagination of toddlers. With its gentle message of kindness and empathy, The Kindness Elves is the perfect book for teaching young children the importance of being tender, considerate, and understanding towards others.

The Invisible String

by Patrice Karst

The Invisible String is a heartwarming and beautifully illustrated book that serves as a gentle guide for young children on the importance of connection and love. This remarkable book, often referred to as a ‘toddler’s guide to being gentle’, explores the concept of an invisible string that connects us to the people we love, no matter where they are.

The Kindness Club

by Courtney Sheinmel

The Kindness Club by Courtney Sheinmel is an adorable and heartwarming book about being gentle for toddlers.

In this delightful story, young readers are introduced to a group of lovable animal friends who form a special club dedicated to spreading kindness and gentleness. Each member of The Kindness Club, from the playful puppy to the curious kitten, has their own unique personality and qualities that make them special.

Through charming illustrations and simple yet impactful text, Sheinmel highlights the importance of being gentle and kind to others, especially to our little ones. The story gently reminds children that being gentle means treating others with respect, being patient, and using soft voices.

With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, The Kindness Club is the perfect book on being gentle for toddlers. It teaches young readers valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and the power of small acts of kindness.

Whether read aloud at bedtime or shared during storytime, this being gentle for toddlers book is sure to capture the hearts of both children and adults alike. It serves as a wonderful tool for parents, caregivers, and educators to promote the values of gentleness and kindness from an early age.

So, join The Kindness Club and embark on a heartwarming journey filled with love, friendship, and the joy of being gentle. This book is a must-read for little ones who want to learn how to spread kindness in their own special way.

The Kindness of Strangers

by Katrina Kittle

The Kindness of Strangers is a heartwarming and delightful book on being gentle for toddlers that will capture the imagination of both children and adults alike. Through its captivating illustrations and charming storytelling, this book takes young readers on a magical journey, teaching them about empathy, compassion, and the importance of treating others with kindness.

With its engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations, this book about being gentle for toddlers will inspire young readers to understand the power of their actions and the impact they can have on the world around them. It beautifully conveys the message that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Through the adventures of its endearing characters, The Kindness of Strangers gently introduces children to the concept of empathy and shows them the joy that comes from being kind to others. By using relatable situations and relatable characters, this being gentle for toddlers book encourages children to think about how their actions can positively affect those around them.

Whether it’s sharing toys, comforting a friend, or helping someone in need, this enchanting book will leave a lasting impression on young readers, reminding them of the power of kindness and the importance of being gentle with others. The Kindness of Strangers is a must-read for parents, educators, and anyone who believes in the transformative power of empathy and compassion.

The Kindness Diaries

by Leon Logothetis

The Kindness Diaries by Leon Logothetis is not just a book on being gentle for toddlers; it is a heartwarming and inspiring journey that will touch the souls of readers of all ages. This book about being gentle for toddlers takes us on a remarkable adventure filled with acts of kindness, compassion, and the power of human connection.

The Kindness Cure

by Tara Cousineau

The Kindness Cure by Tara Cousineau is a heartwarming book that offers a gentle approach to teaching young children about compassion and empathy. This delightful read is not just a book on being gentle for toddlers, but an inspiring journey into the world of kindness and understanding.

In this captivating book about being gentle for toddlers, Cousineau explores the power of small acts of kindness and how they can positively impact our lives and the lives of those around us. Through enchanting illustrations and engaging storytelling, she teaches young readers the importance of being gentle, kind, and considerate towards others.

The Kindness Cure is not just another being gentle for toddlers book, but a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and caregivers who want to nurture empathy and compassion in young children. It offers practical tips and simple activities that can be incorporated into everyday life, making it easy for even the busiest of parents to instill these essential values in their little ones.

If you’re looking for a being gentle for toddlers book that goes beyond the surface, The Kindness Cure is the perfect choice. It will inspire and empower young children to make a difference in the world by embracing the power of kindness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about being gentle for toddlers are not only entertaining, but also impart important lessons about kindness and empathy. By reading these books with your little ones, you can help them understand the importance of treating others with gentleness and respect. Whether it’s through heartwarming stories or charming illustrations, these books are sure to capture the attention of your toddler while teaching valuable life lessons. So, grab a cozy spot and start exploring these wonderful books about being gentle for toddlers today!