4 Kids Stories About Being Helpful and Helping Others to Teach Kindness

Introduction to Books About Being Helpful to Others

Teaching children the value of helping others is one of the most meaningful lessons we can impart. Stories have a unique way of capturing kids’ imaginations while planting seeds of kindness and empathy. Through relatable characters and heartfelt messages, books can show kids how their actions, no matter how small, can make a big difference.

In this post, we’ll explore four beautifully crafted stories about being helpful and showing compassion to others. Each book offers an engaging narrative that highlights the power of kindness, whether through helping a friend, supporting a community, or learning the joy of selfless giving. These stories are perfect for sparking meaningful discussions about empathy, responsibility, and the importance of putting others first. Let’s dive into these inspiring tales that will encourage young readers to embrace the value of helping others in their everyday lives.

For some of the books in this series, I have created interactive read-alouds to enrich their use in the classroom. These interactive read-alouds include discussion questions, activities, and prompts that engage students and deepen their understanding of the book’s themes. More interactive read-alouds are on the way. If there are specific books for which you would like to see a read-aloud created, please contact me using the form at the bottom of the page.

To learn more about supporting social-emotional learning and using interactive read-alouds in the classroom, check out these posts:

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Book Recommendations

Amos McGee Misses the Bus - Philip C. Stead

Summary: In Amos McGee Misses the Bus by Philip C. Stead, Amos McGee, a kind and dedicated zookeeper, is known for always being on time and caring for his animal friends. However, after staying up late to plan a special surprise for them, he oversleeps and misses his bus to the zoo. Realizing he won’t have time to prepare the surprise himself, Amos is initially disappointed—until his animal friends come together to help him. This heartwarming story highlights the beauty of friendship and the joy of helping one another in times of need.

Description: This sequel to A Sick Day for Amos McGee carries forward the themes of kindness, compassion, and community. The story reinforces the idea that friendships thrive when both giving and receiving support are part of the relationship. With its delicate illustrations and gentle storytelling, Amos McGee Misses the Bus invites readers to explore how small acts of care can make a big difference. Parents and educators appreciate its message of teamwork and the value of helping others, making it an excellent tool for fostering social-emotional growth in children.

Reviews and Considerations: Readers praise Amos McGee Misses the Bus for its tender message and captivating artwork. Parents find it a valuable tool for teaching empathy and the importance of helping others, while teachers highlight its usefulness in classroom discussions about kindness and cooperation. The illustrations are widely admired for their warmth and ability to bring the story to life. Fans of the original book enjoy revisiting Amos and his friends, but many note that this story stands on its own as a beautiful exploration of friendship and support. It’s a perfect pick for storytime or quiet reflection.

Blizzard - John Rocco

Summary: Blizzard by John Rocco recounts the true story of a young boy’s adventure during the Blizzard of 1978, a snowstorm that blanketed his Rhode Island town with fifty-three inches of snow. The story begins with the boy’s excitement over the first snowfall and quickly escalates to a community cut off from essential supplies due to the storm. Using tennis rackets as snowshoes and armed with a determined spirit, the boy journeys through the snow to gather groceries not just for his family but for his neighbors as well. His efforts showcase the resilience and kindness that emerge in times of need, ending with the collective relief brought by the arrival of snowplows.

Description: Blizzard captures the awe and challenges of a historic snowstorm through the eyes of a child. Rocco’s captivating illustrations, enhanced by dynamic use of white space, transport readers to a winter wonderland where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. The story highlights themes of helping others and community spirit, showing how one child’s resourcefulness and empathy make a difference in difficult times. This book blends nostalgia with adventure, making it a warm and memorable read for children and adults alike.

Parents, educators, and librarians praise Blizzard for its ability to connect young readers with real-life history while teaching valuable lessons about selflessness and teamwork. The fold-out map of the boy’s snowy journey adds a playful, interactive element that children love, inspiring further conversations about geography, problem-solving, and helping others.

Reviews and Considerations: Readers adore Blizzard for its heartfelt storytelling and stunning illustrations that vividly portray the magic and challenges of a major snowstorm. Many adults appreciate the nostalgic element, recalling their own childhood experiences in snowy winters, while children find the boy’s journey inspiring and exciting. Educators commend the book for sparking discussions about weather, community, and the importance of helping others.

Though some noted the story’s setting might feel unfamiliar to children in warmer climates, its universal themes of kindness and resilience resonate deeply with all readers. The fold-out map and rich details of the boy’s trek add extra layers of engagement, making Blizzard a cherished book for homes and classrooms alike.

Those Shoes - Meribeth Boelts

Summary: In Those Shoes by Meribeth Boelts, young Jeremy yearns for a pair of trendy shoes that “everyone” at school is wearing. However, his grandmother reminds him that their family can only focus on “needs,” not “wants.” Determined to fit in, Jeremy finds a pair of the coveted shoes at a thrift store, even though they are too small. Over time, Jeremy discovers the joy of helping others when he makes the selfless decision to give the shoes to a friend who needs them more. This heartfelt story highlights the power of generosity and the importance of putting others before yourself.

Description: Those Shoes explores the pressures of materialism and the value of selflessness through a relatable and heartfelt narrative. The book beautifully balances themes of gratitude, empathy, and the profound impact of helping others. Jeremy’s journey showcases how acts of kindness can not only brighten someone else’s life but also foster personal growth.

Educators and parents value the book’s ability to spark meaningful conversations about socio-economic differences, privilege, and how even small gestures of compassion can make a big difference. The vibrant illustrations and realistic storytelling bring Jeremy’s world to life, making this book a favorite for families and classrooms alike.

Reviews and Considerations: Readers praise Those Shoes for its emotional depth and universal message of kindness and generosity. The story resonates with children who relate to Jeremy’s desire to fit in, while adults appreciate its focus on helping others and teaching life lessons. Teachers often use the book to foster discussions about gratitude, empathy, and the joy of giving, making it a staple in classrooms.

While some readers have expressed concerns about reinforcing stereotypes, the overwhelming majority commend the book for its authentic portrayal of the protagonist’s growth. Jeremy’s journey of self-discovery and his final act of selflessness offer a touching reminder of how helping others can bring happiness and meaning to our own lives.

Maddi's Fridge - Lois Brandt

Summary: In Maddi’s Fridge by Lois Brandt, best friends Sofia and Maddi share their days in the same neighborhood, but their home lives couldn’t be more different. When Sofia discovers Maddi’s fridge is nearly empty, with only a small container of milk for her little brother, she promises to keep Maddi’s secret. However, Sofia is determined to help, attempting to sneak food to Maddi in her backpack—an effort that leads to some humorous mishaps.

Ultimately, Sofia realizes the importance of breaking her promise for a greater good, seeking adult help to ensure Maddi’s family gets the support they need. This heartfelt story highlights the challenges of food insecurity and the strength of friendship and empathy.

Description: Maddi’s Fridge sensitively addresses the serious issue of childhood hunger in a way that is relatable and accessible for young readers. Through Sofia’s perspective, children learn the importance of helping others, keeping promises, and knowing when it’s necessary to involve an adult. The story blends humor with heartfelt moments, making it both engaging and thought-provoking.

Parents and educators value this book for its ability to spark meaningful discussions about food insecurity, compassion, and advocacy. The vibrant illustrations add warmth to the story, and the friendship between Sofia and Maddi provides a relatable framework for children to explore complex social issues. With practical suggestions for helping others included at the end of the book, Maddi’s Fridge is a valuable resource for fostering empathy and action in kids.

Reviews and Considerations: Readers praise Maddi’s Fridge for its gentle yet impactful approach to a difficult topic. The story’s balance of humor and emotional depth resonates with children and adults alike, often inspiring conversations about hunger, privilege, and how to help others in need.

Parents appreciate how the book provides a starting point for discussing real-world issues, while teachers commend its usefulness in fostering empathy and understanding in the classroom. The characters’ relatable friendship and Sofia’s determination to help Maddi make the narrative compelling and memorable. Whether for a classroom read-aloud or family storytime, Maddi’s Fridge leaves readers with a powerful message: everyone can make a difference, no matter how small their actions may seem.

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