Raise your hand if you or your students are sick…it’s that time of year! As elementary school teachers, we know the power of washing our hands to stop the spread of germs. Let’s use picture books about healthy habits to teach this to our students!
I’m sharing all of these books on video as well! Check out the Healthy Habits Books for Kids on my Youtube channel.
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Books about Healthy Habits
Sick Simon by Dan Krall
Sick Simon is about to learn that having a cold isn’t nearly as fun as he thought. (And also that he should wash his hands.) A clever book about learning what do (and not to do) during cold and flu season.
Simon is going to have the best week ever. Who cares if he has a cold? And sneezes everywhere, and coughs on everyone, and touches everything. Germs call him a hero! Everyone else calls him…Sick Simon. Can Sick Simon learn to change his ways?
Click here to grab the Sick Simon lesson plan!
What are Germs? by Katie Daynes
What are germs? How do they spread? And how do medicines help? Curious young children can take a closer look at those mischievous, microscopic bacteria and viruses in this fascinating introduction to germs and hygiene, with 30 flaps to lift and tips on hand-washing and staying healthy.
Do Not Lick this Book by Idan Ben-Barak
In this interactive children’s picture book, microbiologist Idan Ben-Barak zoom in on the microscopic world found on everyday objects―and in our bodies―warning readers Do Not Lick This Book.
Min is a microbe. She is small. Very small. In fact, so small that you’d need to look through a microscope to see her. Or you can simply open this book and take Min on an adventure to amazing places she’s never seen before―like the icy glaciers of your tooth or the twisted, tangled jungle of your shirt.
Germs vs. Soap by Didi Dragon
The only book you’ll need to convince kids of proper handwashing with a whole bunch of giggles included.
Germs don’t like soap. In fact, they’d really much prefer you just wash with water so they can throw a no-soap party while they’re at it. Just don’t think about washing with soap. Not in their hiding spots, like under your nails or between fingers. And definitely not for 20 seconds.
A Germ’s Journey by Thom Rooke
Where did your cold germ come from? And ACHOO! Where is it going next? A germ’s journey is filled with snuffles, sniffles, and sneezes. Pack your bags, and get ready to follow it!
I Don’t Want to Wash My Hands! by Tony Ross
The Little Princess does not want to wash her hands. After all, she’s already washed her hands so many times!
She’s washed her hands before eating and after going outside. She’s washed her hands after sneezing and using the potty. Why should she wash her hands anymore?
Well, because of germs and nasties, she’s told, which are too small to even see! But if they get inside your body, they can make you ill. Not even a Princess wants to be in bed all day!
How Does Soap Clean Your Hands? by Madeline Hayes
Have you ever wondered how soap cleans your hands, or how eating healthy makes your body stronger?
In the How Do series, readers are invited to guess and then explore the science behind the right answers. How does medicine work, the significance of hand-washing, or why exercise keeps you energized? This picture book explores the science behind basic health habits through diagrams, photos, and informative and engaging text.
Germs are Not for Sharing by Elizabeth Verdick
Achoo! Cough! F-L-U-S-H! What to do? In childcare, in preschool, at home, and everywhere, toddlers need to learn that germs are not for sharing. Rather than focus on what germs are, this book teaches the basics of not spreading them: Cover up a sneeze or cough. Hug or blow kisses when you’re sick. And most of all, wash your hands! Child-friendly words and full-color illustrations help little ones stay clean and healthy. Includes tips and ideas for parents and caregivers.
Listen on the Podcast
Save this List of Books about Healthy Habits
Be sure to save this pin to your favorite read alouds board on Pinterest! You’ll be able to come back to these books about healthy habits when you are ready to read them aloud with your students.
