15 Best Books About Mothers for Children of all ages
There are many ways to say, “I love you,” and books can express those feelings in a variety of ways that children can understand. Some books come right out and say it, while others convey the message through illustrations, humor, and situations kids can relate to. A mother’s love is a universal need, and these books will help build feelings of unconditional love. Even adult children and mothers can share their love through books (see the photo above of my Mother’s Day gift from my daughters in 1997).
The Kissing Hand, by Audrey Penn, Little Raccoon doesn’t want to go to school until his mother gives him a special “gift” that gives him confidence and reassurance. A heartwarming story and a classic read aloud for a child’s first school experience. (Ages 3-8)
The Mommy Book, by Todd Parr, Parr’s colorful, childlike illustrations will make you and your child smile as you read about all the things that mommies can do. (Ages 2-6)
Everything is Mama, by Jimmy Fallon, adorable illustrations in this humorous story about different animals trying to teach their babies that there are many words other than, “mama.” (Ages 1-3)
Does a Kangaroo Have a Mother, Too? by Eric Carle, colorful, collage illustrations and simple, repeating text tell a story that conveys the loving bonds between mothers and their children. (Ages 2-6)
Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman, classic story and a perfect book for early readers, about the adventures of a baby bird looking for his mother. (Ages 3-7)
Love You Forever, by Robert Munsch, a beautiful story with a deep and powerful message about mother/child love. (Ages 4 and up)
Mommy Hugs, by Karen Katz, a counting book of the many hugs that mommies give in one day. Lovable Katz illustrations and simple text will have special appeal for little ones. (Ages 1-5)
Little Fish and Mommy, by Lucy Cousins, a fish-shaped book with colorful, cartoon illustrations about the underwater activities enjoyed together by Little Fish and Mommy. (Ages 2-5)
You Are My Happy, by Hoda Kotb, inspired by the author’s bedtime routine with her daughter, a mama bear and her cub reflect on what made them happy that day. Beautiful illustrations and sweet poetic verse make this a great choice for a soothing bedtime read aloud. (Ages 3-8)
I’ve Loved You Since Forever, by Hoda Kotb, the original picture book by Hoda, a magical journey back in time that conveys a mother’s love for her child. (Ages 3-8)
Love, Mama, by Jeanette Bradley, a warm and tender story about little penguin who is sad and lonesome while his mother is away. When he receives a package from her with a note, they begin a correspondence that keeps them connected until her return. (Ages 2-6)
Please Baby Please, by Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee, endearing illustrations reveal baby’s daily exploits, from playing with her food to taking off her diaper, until finally tucked in bed, as mother repeatedly says, “Please, baby, please.” Fun and relatable for moms and little ones. (Ages 2-5)
Koala Lou, by Mem Fox, fabulous illustrations and sweet story about first-born Koala Lou, who fears losing her mother’s love when siblings arrive, and attempts to win an athletic event to gain her mother’s affection. In the end, she understands that her mother’s love is unconditional and eternal. (Ages 3-6)
I’ll Hug You More, by Laura Duksta, adorable rhyming story about a variety of lovable animals sharing hugs between parent and child, told from two different perspectives. The book flips to present the two narrators, a novel concept kids are sure to enjoy. (Ages 3-7)
My Mom Has X-ray Vision, by Angela McAllister, a cute story about a boy believing his mother has x-ray vision because she always knows what he’s up to, and he sets out to prove his theory. Told from the child’s point of view, this book is an entertaining read aloud with clever, comical illustrations. (Ages 4-7)
Moms, cuddle up with your lovable little ones and feel the love as you read these engaging books celebrating wonderful you.
Get your Reading Boots on and enjoy the journey.