As the days grow colder and the excitement of winter fills the air, there’s nothing better than curling up with a good book. But, since we can’t just curl up with books all day, we can at least introduce our students to stories that capture the magic, wonder, and lessons of winter. Since I’m in California, we don’t really get a winter {sending warm thoughts to those of you in super chilly climates 🥶} so I love reading fun stories that bring a little winter into our classroom.
Here’s a list of my favorite winter-themed books, specifically read alouds, that will captivate your students and spark meaningful discussions in your classroom.
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Snowman Magic
I got Snowman Magic in the Scholastic Book order years ago and it’s a favorite bedtime read for us here at home. On a boring snowy day, George builds a snowman that turns into his magical playmate. It’s so cute!
Snowmen at Night
Who doesn’t love this modern classic about winter? These snowmen get up to all sorts of fun as soon as the sun goes down.
To extend this read-aloud, create a class book about “What Else Snowmen Do at Night!” You can find this activity in January’s Class Books! It’s so fun to see what the kids come up with for this class book.
Penguin Huddle
This book is so cute and has a great message! All the penguins huddle together in the cold…until one day they are stuck together. They must figure out a way to break apart. The littlest penguin turns out to be the real hero!
Snowflakes on Our Tongues
Your students will HOWL listening to Snowflakes on Our Tongues. When snow begins falling on the farm, the animal antics begin! Super cute rhyming read-aloud.
Related: Pattern Block Snowflakes Activity
Ten Ways to Hear Snow
While this may be a “counting book” it is so much more! It peeks into the life of Lina on her way to see her grandmother in a care home and how you can hear snow!
My Penguin Osbert
We’ve all asked for BIG things on our Christmas list and that’s exactly what happens in My Penguin Osbert. When Joe makes it very clear to Santa that he’d like a real-life penguin for Santa, he delivers! And Joe quickly learns you may not always want what you ask for!
The Snow Thief
This is the cutest follow-up to one of my Fall faves! In The Snow Thief Squirrel is astonished by snow and worries when it starts to disappear. So cute!
All Right Already!
I never knew this Jory John story existed until last year! It’s a humorous book with the moral about not giving in to selfish people! It’s a darling book with a wonderful life lesson!
Winter is a magical time of year, and these books are perfect for bringing that magic into your classroom. They not only entertain but also provide opportunities for teaching valuable lessons about nature, kindness, and perseverance. So grab a blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and settle in with your students for some cozy winter reading. Or, make it a whole day and turn it into a Read-In Day!
Related Reading: Winter Classroom Party Ideas
Best Winter Read Alouds for Kids Recap
Whether your classroom experiences real snow or just dreams of it, these winter-themed books are perfect for bringing seasonal magic and valuable lessons to your students.
From the nighttime adventures of snowmen to penguins learning teamwork, each story offers opportunities to discuss important themes like friendship, perseverance, and wonder.
So grab these engaging read-alouds and create cozy winter memories with your class!
Have any favorite winter books? Leave a comment and let me know!
Don’t forget to pin for later!