Manners is one facet of social intelligence, which supports positive interpersonal and professional outcomes throughout life. While we’re never too old to improve upon our manners, it’s better for everyone involved to start early. Here are ten of our favorite books on manners.
1. Little Elephant Listens
By Michael Dahl
Amazon I BookShop
This sweet book on listening to parents, no matter the time of day, is perfect for young children ages 6 months+
2. Spoonful of Sweetness
By Maria Dismondy
Amazon I BookShop
Sweet manners are one of the earliest traits an infant can be exposed to and develop! This picture book aimed at babies is a recipient of the Gold Mom’s Choice Award
3. Bear Says Thank You
By Michael Dahl
Amazon I BookShop
When Mama Bear helps Baby Bear with a big project, he remembers to express his gratitude by thanking her along the way!
Sign up for the Empowering Kids with Character mailing list, a community started by author Maria Dismondy, and receive a free Morning Routines to Live By download that you can use to help your kids incorporate good-mannered habits into daily life as well as self-care activities for you.
4. Llama, Llama Time to Share
By Anna Dewdney
Amazon I BookShop
In this quirky book, Llama Llama learns to share his toys with a new neighbor thanks to the encouragement of his mama. Sharing is actually pretty great!
5. The Bad Seed
By Jory John
Amazon I BookShop
The bestselling text and illustrations weave the tale of a Bad Seed who chooses to become good. Positive attitude change is possible for anyone
6. We Don’t Eat our Classmates
By Ryan T. Higgins
Amazon I BookShop
Dinosaur Penelope Rex wants to make new friends at school, but finds her human classmates quite tasty. Ultimately, she changes her ways and finds that she isn’t at the top of the food chain
7. May I Please Have a Cookie?
By Jennifer E. Morris
Amazon I BookShop
This humorous book about Alfie the Alligator teaches kids the best way to get a cookie: ask and say please
8. Martha Doesn’t Say Sorry
By Samantha Berger
Amazon
Martha the Otter doesn’t want to apologize. When she realizes that fun things are only for those who say they’re sorry, she embraces the rewarding feeling that comes thereafter. This pink book is sweet yet direct
9. The Golden Rule
By Illene Cooper
Amazon
A grandpa teaches his son about the golden rule of treating others as you would like to be treated, its positive effects, and how to apply it in daily life
10. Do Unto Otters
By Laurie Keller
Amazon I BookShop
When otters move in next-door, Mr. Rabbit worries that they won’t get along. He realizes that in living by the golden rule, treating others with kindness is easy
Also, sign up for the Empowering Kids with Character mailing list, a community started by author Maria Dismondy, and receive a free Morning Routines to Live By download that you can use to help your kids incorporate good-mannered habits into daily life as well as self-care activities for you.