Valentine’s Day provides a perfect opportunity to explore the theme of love in the classroom, and what better way to do so than through children’s literature? Here are seven books that beautifully capture different facets of love, suitable for reading and discussing with your students:
1.”Guess How Much I Love You” by Sam McBratney
This classic tale showcases the tender love between Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare. As they compete to express their love for each other, children learn about the boundless nature of true affection.
2.”The Day It Rained Hearts” by Felicia Bond
Cornelia Augusta catches hearts from the sky on a peculiar day when it rains hearts instead of water. This enchanting story encourages creativity and kindness as Cornelia uses the hearts to make special cards for her friends.
3.”Love from The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle
Using his signature style, Eric Carle illustrates what love looks like through the eyes of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. This book is splendid for teaching little ones about appreciation and care for others.
4.”The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst
Through a simple concept, this story explains to children that we are always connected to the ones we love through an invisible string, even when we’re apart. It’s a comforting concept that can help children understand separation and loss.
5.”Love is my Favorite Thing” by Emma Chichester Clark
Featuring Plum, the enthusiastic dog who loves many things, this book explores love through everyday joys and mishaps. Children learn that being loved doesn’t mean being perfect.
6.”A Book of Hugs” by Dave Ross
This book takes readers through various types of hugs and the occasions they suit best, emphasizing physical affection as a simple but powerful expression of love.
7.”Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch” by Eileen Spinelli
Mr. Hatch is a lonely man who receives an unexpected package with a note that reads “Somebody loves you.” The mystery gift sparks positive changes in his life, illustrating how knowing you’re loved can transform your outlook.
Each book on this list can serve as a heartwarming read-aloud for Valentine’s Day and an excellent conversation starter about love’s many forms—whether it’s care between friends or family members, affection shown through acts of kindness, or even self-love and acceptance. Enjoy these stories with your class and let them inspire discussions about what love means to your students!
