Kids love stories. Finding fresh February read-alouds for kindergarten can be tough when you’ve used the same books year after year.
Finding new titles that keep little ones engaged while teaching important lessons can be challenging.
Good news! This collection of fun february read alouds for kindergarten kids brings warmth to cold classrooms.
In this blog post, you’ll find tips on fun storytelling, hands-on activities to keep children engaged, so be sure to read on!
Simple Tips to Make Storytelling Come Alive
Good storytelling helps children understand and enjoy books more fully. When teachers read with energy and skill, they build a love for reading that can last a lifetime.
These methods make stories come alive for young listeners:
Voice Modulation & Sound Effects: Change your voice for different characters, soft for shy ones, bold for brave ones. Add sounds like wind whooshing or snow crunching to make scenes feel real.
Repetition: Books with repeated phrases help children join in the reading. They’ll soon guess what comes next, building confidence and language skills.
Interactive Reading: Ask questions during the story or have children act out parts. “Can you hop like the bunny?” keeps them focused.
Puppetry/Props: Use simple puppets, stuffed toys, or objects from the story. Showing a real mitten during a mitten story helps children make connections between words and objects.
Top Fun February Read Alouds for Kindergarten
February brings special chances to share books about friendship, hearts, and winter fun. The books below work well for morning meetings, quiet time, or anytime you want to gather children for a good story.
Each one offers something special february read alouds for kindergarten students who enjoy listening and learning.
1. The Day it Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond
In The Day It Rained Hearts, Cornelia Augusta finds herself in a magical storm of falling hearts.
She collects the hearts and thoughtfully crafts unique valentines for each of her animal friends. The book shows how thinking of others can make simple gifts extra special.
Its gentle message of kindness and creativity fits February’s theme of love perfectly. The playful story and sweet illustrations make it a favorite for young readers.
2. Love Monster by Rachel Bright
Love Monster tells the story of a fuzzy monster who doesn’t quite fit in with the cute creatures around him. He sets out on an expedition to find someone who will love him for who he is.
Along the way, he learns that love often finds you when you least expect it. With its colorful art and hopeful message, this story teaches kids about self-acceptance and friendship in a fun and silly way.
3. Groundhog Gets a Say by Pamela C. Swallow
In Groundhog Gets a Say, the groundhog is tired of being noticed only once a year. He takes charge and teaches everyone what groundhogs are really like.
Readers will laugh while learning cool facts about hibernation, burrowing, and weather prediction.
The book is both funny and informative, making it a great pick for Groundhog Day. It encourages kids to speak up and share what makes them special.
4. Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink by Diane deGroat
Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink follows Gilbert, who writes mean valentines when two classmates upset him. But when his notes cause hurt feelings, Gilbert learns that words can have a big impact.
This story uses humor and heart to teach a lesson about kindness and forgiveness. It’s a relatable classroom story perfect for Valentine’s Day discussions about friendship.
5. I Am Rosa Parks by Brad Meltzer
I Am Rosa Parks shares the true story of how one brave woman made a big difference. Told in simple language, it explains Rosa’s stand against unfair treatment on a bus.
The book helps young readers understand the concepts of courage and fairness. With bright pictures and a strong message, it’s a great introduction to Black History Month. Kids learn that even small actions can lead to big change.
6. Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson
In Bear Snores On, inside a cozy cave, Bear sleeps through a wintry storm while his forest friends gather for a party. One by one, they arrive bringing snacks and fun, all while Bear snores away.
When Bear finally wakes up, he’s surprised, but there’s still room for him to join in. This rhythmic story with lovable characters teaches sharing and friendship in a winter setting.
7. Groundhog’s Runaway Shadow by David Biedrzycki
Groundhog’s Runaway Shadow follows Phil the groundhog and his shadow, who decide they need time apart. As they go their separate ways, they realize that life isn’t the same without each other. It’s a funny, heartwarming story, great for Groundhog Day.
With fun illustrations and a clever storyline, this book highlights the importance of friendship and working through differences.
8. Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli
In Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch, a lonely man, receives a mystery Valentine and believes someone out there cares about him.
This idea changes his life, and he becomes happy, friendly, and helpful. When the truth comes out, his neighbors show him he really is loved. The story is touching and teaches kids that love and kindness can come from unexpected places.
9. Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner
In Snowmen at Night, kids find what snowmen really do when no one is watching. The story imagines snowmen having fun, playing games, sledding, and sipping cold cocoa under the moonlight.
The rhyming text and vibrant pictures pull readers into a snowy, secret world. This book adds winter magic to February storytime and sparks imagination in young readers.
10. Pete the Cat: Valentine’s Day Is Cool by Kimberly & James Dean
In Pete the Cat: Valentine’s Day Is Cool, Pete isn’t sure about the holiday at first. But after talking with his friend Callie, he decides to make cards for everyone he cares about.
He ends up spreading joy with his handmade valentines. This fun story teaches the value of showing love and appreciation in simple, thoughtful ways.
11. I am Martin Luther King, Jr. by Brad Meltzer
I Am Martin Luther King, Jr. tells the inspiring story of Dr. King’s life in a way young children can understand.
It follows him from childhood through his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement. The book explains tough topics like racism and bravery using clear, kind language.
It’s perfect for February’s Black History Month and encourages kids to stand up for what’s right.
12. Love from the Crayons by Drew Daywalt
In Love from the Crayons, the beloved crayon characters return to find what love means in all its colors. From brave red to shy green, each color expresses a different part of love.
The story is short, sweet, and full of bright illustrations. It helps children see love in new and creative ways.
13. Groundhog Day! by Gail Gibbons
Groundhog Day! is a nonfiction read that explains everything about the holiday. Kids learn where it started, how it’s celebrated, and what it means when the groundhog sees his shadow.
With clear text and helpful illustrations, the book turns facts into fun. It’s a great pick for curious kindergartners and teachers planning Groundhog Day activities.
14. Brave Ballerina: The Story of Janet Collins by Michelle Meadows
Brave Ballerina tells the real-life story of Janet Collins, the first African American ballerina to perform at the Metropolitan Opera.
The book follows her experience as she overcomes racism and stays true to her passion. The poetic lines and soft illustrations help young readers understand strength and perseverance. It’s a powerful story to share during Black History Month.
15. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
In The Snowy Day, a young boy named Peter finds his neighborhood after a fresh snowfall.
He makes footprints, snow angels, and even tries to save some snow in his pocket. The story finds the wonder of winter through simple text and beautiful collage art. It’s a timeless read that celebrates the beauty of childhood and the quiet moments that make it special.
16. I am Enough by Grace Byers
In I Am Enough, a young girl celebrates who she is and who she can become. Through lyrical lines, the story conveys messages of self-love, kindness, and respect for differences.
It reminds readers that they are valuable just as they are. With soft illustrations and gentle words, this book is a powerful confidence booster for little ones.
17. Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport
Martin’s Big Words shares the life and dream of Martin Luther King, Jr. through his own powerful quotes. The book tells his story in simple terms that young readers can understand.
It’s both inspiring and easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for Black History Month. The bold illustrations bring his message of peace and equality to life.
18. Olive, My Love by Vivian Walsh
In Olive, My Love, Olive the dog sends a heart-shaped balloon to someone special. The balloon goes on an fun experience before reaching its destination.
With silly rhymes and adorable art, the story captures the fun of surprises and the sweetness of love. It’s light-hearted and playful.
19. Sneezy the Snowman by Maureen Wright
Sneezy the Snowman keeps trying to warm up by sipping hot cocoa and sitting in a hot tub, but he keeps melting! Luckily, some helpful kids rebuild him again and again. This silly winter tale has a great rhythm and lots of laughs. It also fun-teaches about friendship and problem-solving.
20. Penguin in Love by Salina Yoon
In Penguin in Love, Penguin finds a lost mitten and sets off to find its owner. Along the way, he meets another penguin who shares his love of knitting.
Together, they share cozy adventures and create something special. The story is sweet and simple, showing how love can grow through shared passions.
21. Love, Z by Jessie Sima
Love, Z tells the tale of a curious robot named Z who finds a note signed “Love, Beatrice.” Unsure of what “love” means, Z sets out to find it. On the path, Z meets kind people and learns that love isn’t always easy to define, but it’s easy to feel. With charming art and heartfelt storytelling, this book is full of warmth and wonder.
22. My Heart Is Like a Zoo by Michael Hall
In My Heart Is Like a Zoo, readers find different emotions through animals made entirely of heart shapes. Each page features clever wordplay and vibrant illustrations.
The book connects feelings to the animal world in a creative way that’s fun for kids. It’s a joyful read that blends art, emotion, and imagination.
23. Hug Machine by Scott Campbell
In Hug Machine, a cheerful little boy decides to hug everything and everyone he sees, people, animals, and even objects like mailboxes!
He believes hugs make the world better, and he’s on a mission to spread joy. The story is playful and filled with sweet moments that show the power of love and caring. With simple language and cheerful illustrations, this book is ideal for promoting kindness during February.
24. I Love You, Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt
I Love You, Stinky Face follows a little one who keeps asking, “Would you still love me if…”, imagining themselves as all sorts of wild creatures, from a smelly skunk to a swamp monster.
The parent’s answers always show unconditional love. This story mixes silly fun with a heartwarming message that’s perfect for February. It reminds children they are loved no matter what.
25. Just a Little Love by Mercer Mayer
In Just a Little Love, Little Critter notices that even small acts of love make a big difference. He helps a sick bird, visits Grandma, and cheers up his friends.
The story highlights caring for others through everyday actions. With familiar characters and easy-to-follow text, this gentle tale teaches empathy and the joy of being kind.
26. The Mitten by Jan Brett
Nicki drops his white mitten in the snow, and one by one, woodland animals squeeze into it to stay warm. The mitten stretches and stretches until, pop!
Jan Brett’s detailed illustrations and charming side panels make this Ukrainian folktale a visual treat. It’s a funny, predictable story that invites participation and discussion about winter animals and patterns.
27. Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner
The Over and Under the Snow is a quiet, poetic story that follows a child skiing through the snowy woods with their father. As they travel, the child wonders about the secret world beneath the snow, the animals who hibernate and hide.
The lyrical text gently introduces science, giving young readers a glimpse of winter ecology through beautiful prose and soothing imagery.
28. A Loud Winter’s Nap by Katy Hudson
In A Loud Winter’s Nap, Tortoise wants nothing more than a long winter’s nap, but his noisy friends have other plans. Each time he finds a new spot to snooze, someone interrupts with sledding, ice skating, or fun in the snow.
Eventually, Tortoise learns that winter might not be so bad after all. This cheerful book reminds children that sometimes trying new things leads to joy.
29. Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell
With minimal words and expressive illustrations, this Caldecott-winning Wolf in the Snow book tells the story of a girl and a lost wolf pup helping each other find their way home during a blizzard.
It’s a quiet tale of kindness, courage, and connection across differences. Young readers learn about empathy and the power of helping others, even without words.
30. Snow Day! by Lester L. Laminack
In Snow Day!, a group of kids eagerly watches the snow fall, dreaming of a snow day filled with sledding, hot chocolate, and staying in pajamas. But there’s a twist at the end that surprises readers!
The book captures the anticipation of a possible day off from school with joyful language and colorful illustrations, making it a delightful february read.
31. Little Owl’s Snow by Divya Srinivasan
In Little Owl’s Snow, a little Owl watches his forest prepare for winter, some animals sleep, some leave, and everything changes with the first snow.
Curious and wide-eyed, he learns that snow isn’t scary, it’s just something new. The gentle storytelling and soft illustrations offer a calming experience, making it ideal for cozy February mornings.
Creative Crafts and Activities for Read-Alouds
Pairing books with hands-on projects helps children connect with stories on a deeper level. These activities build fine motor skills while making reading time more fun and memorable:
- Art and craft: After reading The Day It Rained Hearts, kids can create heart-themed crafts using colored paper, glue, and markers.
- Snowflake Creations: For books like The Snowy Day, students can make paper snowflakes to bring winter themes to life.
- Feelings Journal: After reading books about emotions, children can draw or write about their daily feelings.
- Friendship Chains: Cut colorful paper strips for kids to write kind acts on, then link them together after reading friendship-themed stories.
- Letter Match: Have children find and circle letters they recognize in book title printouts to boost letter recognition skills.
- Story Puppets: Create simple paper bag or stick puppets of book characters for retelling stories.
Summing It Up
February reading time gives kids a chance to grow and learn through stories. These february read alouds for kindergarten, plus the hands-on activities that go with them, help students build key skills while having fun.
These February read alouds for kindergarten offer more than just entertainment, and they create chances for children to connect with ideas that matter.
What are your favorite February books to read with kindergarteners? Share your picks in the comments below!
