The Super Bowl is coming up! Whether you have football fanatics in your classroom or students who don’t know much about the sport, they’ll all love these football picture books. You can read them aloud leading up to the big game or any time of the year!
Austin Plays Fair by Tony Dungy tackles the importance of sportsmanship. When Austin’s losing streak tempts him to cheat, he must choose between winning at all costs or maintaining his integrity. This story prompts valuable discussions about making ethical choices in competitive situations.
Lisa Wheeler’s Dino Football brings prehistoric players to the gridiron in an action-packed adventure. With sacks, handoffs, touchdowns, and interceptions, young readers will delight in seeing dinosaurs tackle this beloved sport.
Matt Christopher explores the ethics of winning in The Dog that Stole Football Plays, where Mike must decide whether using his telepathic dog’s insights constitutes cheating. This unique premise encourages readers to think about fair play and personal integrity.
The Manning football dynasty comes to life in Family Huddle, where brothers Eli, Peyton, and Cooper share their childhood memories of playing football during family visits. This heartwarming story celebrates both family bonds and athletic tradition.
Former MLB and NFL player Brian Jordan shares his childhood experiences in I Told You I Can Play. This autobiographical tale follows a confident young boy whose determination helps him prove his athletic abilities, offering an inspiring message about perseverance.
In Miss Nelson Has a Field Day, the infamous Miss Swamp returns to coach the struggling Smedley Tornadoes. This humorous companion to the classic Miss Nelson Is Missing shows how tough love and discipline can turn a team around.
Don Tate’s Pigskins to Paintbrushes tells the remarkable true story of Ernie Barnes, who transformed from a bullied, art-loving child to both a professional football player and celebrated artist. This biography demonstrates how athletics and artistry can beautifully intersect.
These picture books offer more than just football action – they explore themes of perseverance, integrity, family bonds, and following one’s dreams, making them perfect reads for the Super Bowl season and beyond.
Be sure to save this pin to your favorite read alouds board on Pinterest! You’ll be able to come back to these football picture books when you are ready to read them aloud with your students.