Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, Winter is an undeniably magical time for little ones. Crunchy frost, twinkly lights, the magic of steamy breath hitting the cold air… Still, it’s always nice to get back into the warm! We asked Amanda Overend, Founder of parent-approved book stockist Books & Pieces, to pick out the best Winter-themed books to snuggle up with and make storytime special.
Pick a Pine Tree by Patricia Toht
Celebrate the excitement of choosing a Christmas tree with this simple and beautifully illustrated book for all ages, a lovely rhyming story about picking and then decorating the perfect pine! It’s a particularly good book to read before making your own home festive and chatting about how a tree gets from field to front room.
Stick Man by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler
Every child should have a copy of this modern classic. Follow Stick Man on his voyage to reunite with his family in time for Christmas. Perfect for reading all year round but with a guest appearance from Father Christmas, it’s perfect for reading in the lead-up to the big day.
Dear Santa by Rod Campbell
You’ve probably heard of the kids classic ‘Dear Zoo’ and this follow-up is just as enjoyable (for them and for us!). This sweet lift-the-flap board book gives us a Christmas gift on every page. But what will be inside? And will Santa deliver the perfect present?
The Christmas Bear by Ian Whybrow and Axel Scheffler
If you’re looking for a Christmas book to make your kids giggle, then this is the one. This fun, interactive and totally bonkers story book is packed with tabs to pull and flaps to lift as a forgotten toy tries to make his own way back to his rightful owner in time. It will be a big hit with 3-5 year olds.
Oliver Elephant by Lou Peacock and Helen Stephens
A bit different to your usual festive offerings, this beautifully whimsical story follows Noah and his family on their Christmas shopping trip. They’re having a great time, until Oliver Elephant goes missing. Helen Stephens’ gorgeous illustrations make this a book you’ll treasure for years to come. Sweet, simple and with an important happy ending.
Hanukkah Baby by Ekaterina Trukhan
A brilliant introduction to Hannukah for very young children. This chew-proof, rip-proof book is from the Indestructibles series, so firmly designed for babies and toddlers – but a charming and simple look at this Jewish celebration for slightly older children too.
Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson
Sure to be a firm family favourite, Bear Snores On is the tale of woodland animals relieved to find shelter from a winter storm – only to find the cave they’ve found is also home to a hibernating bear! The rhythm and rhyme of this book makes it a joy to read, and it’s the perfect tale before it’s time to go to sleep themselves.
Winter by Ailie Busby
If you want to introduce your baby and toddler to the wonders of winter without getting cold, this book is a delight. A simple board book that looks at how to know when it’s winter.
The Jolly Christmas Postman by Janet and Allan Ahlberg
An absolute Christmas classic you may remember your younger siblings having. This interactive storybook has letters and gifts to discover as you join the journey of the Jolly Postman at Christmas. Owning a book from the Jolly Postman series is a rite of passage for every child!
Mr Men Chinese New Year by Roger Hargreaves
Parents and their children will learn a thing or two from this colourful Mr Men book that shares the traditions of Chinese New Year through an easy-to-follow story.
Making winter storytime extra special
How about making storytime even more special this winter by setting up a winter wonderland at home just for the occasion! Make a cosy den with blankets and cushions, hang up fairy lights or dot around battery-powered tea lights, close the curtains and settle down.
Guaranteed bonus points from the kids if you serve up with hot chocolate and marshmallows. And for bonus reading tips, check out our top tips.
We’d love to know what your favourite winter kid’s books are? Do you have any you read every year? Head over and tell us on Facebook.
