Helping kids develop healthy habits early sets the foundation for a lifetime of well-being. But let’s be honest—convincing children to eat their veggies, wash their hands, or go to bed on time isn’t always easy! That’s where books come in. Stories have a unique way of making important lessons fun, engaging, and easy for kids to understand.
In this list, you’ll find seven fantastic books that teach children how to take care of their bodies through proper hygiene, nutritious eating, exercise, and rest. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, these stories will help you guide kids toward making healthy choices in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.
From silly dragons learning about nutrition to a sneezy Simon discovering the importance of covering his mouth, these books use humor, relatable characters, and engaging storytelling to reinforce positive habits. Let’s dive in!
For some of these books, 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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Summary: Having a pet dragon is exciting—until he refuses to brush his teeth, wash his hands, or take a bath! Diggory Doo would rather argue than clean up, but his bad habits start affecting those around him. His friends avoid him, and his hygiene problems cause all sorts of trouble. Through engaging rhymes and fun illustrations, this book teaches kids why keeping clean is important—not just for themselves but for others, too!
Description: This lighthearted story is a fun way to help children understand personal hygiene. With a relatable dragon character, kids see firsthand how poor hygiene can lead to social consequences, making the lesson more meaningful. The book covers essential habits like brushing teeth, washing hands, and covering sneezes, helping kids connect cleanliness with kindness and responsibility. The rhyming text and colorful illustrations make it easy for young readers to engage, while the repetitive structure reinforces learning. Ideal for parents, teachers, and caregivers, this book makes a sometimes-difficult topic fun and accessible.
Reviews and Considerations: Parents and educators appreciate this book for making hygiene education enjoyable. Many love the My Dragon Books series because it provides a consistent character that kids can relate to as they navigate social-emotional skills. One parent shared that their child started asking hygiene-related questions after reading the book, showing its impact beyond the story. Another noted that the book was helpful in homeschool settings and special education classrooms.
While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some readers wished the book covered additional hygiene habits, like keeping fingers out of the mouth and nose.
Summary: Having a pet dragon is exciting—until he refuses to go to bed! Diggory Doo loves to stay up late, finding endless reasons to delay bedtime. Whether it’s asking for more snacks, playing just one more game, or struggling to turn off his busy brain, he resists sleep at every turn. But without enough rest, he becomes grumpy, sick, and unable to focus at school. Through playful rhymes and colorful illustrations, this story helps children understand why sleep is essential and how it affects their health and emotions.
Description: This engaging book is a great tool for teaching kids about the importance of a good night’s sleep. With Diggory Doo as a relatable character, children see the direct impact of sleep deprivation and learn that rest is not just necessary—it’s an adventure in itself. The story explains how sleep recharges the brain, improves focus, and keeps the body strong. Parents and teachers will appreciate how the book addresses common bedtime struggles in a fun, accessible way, making it a helpful addition to any bedtime routine.
Reviews and Considerations: Many parents praise this book for making bedtime easier, noting that their children relate to Diggory Doo’s excuses for staying up late. One reviewer shared that their grandson, who had similar bedtime struggles, became more willing to sleep after reading the book. Others appreciate how the story tackles nearly every excuse kids use to delay bedtime, helping them understand why sleep matters.
Some parents even report that the book has a “magic” effect—one reviewer described their child yawning and going to bed without a fuss after listening to the story!
Summary: Achoo! Cough! F-L-U-S-H! What should kids do when they sneeze, cough, or get their hands dirty? In Germs Are Not for Sharing, young readers learn essential hygiene habits—covering sneezes, using tissues, keeping hands out of mouths, and most importantly, washing hands! Through simple language and engaging illustrations, this book helps children understand how germs spread and how they can keep themselves and others healthy.
Description: Rather than focusing on the science of germs, this book emphasizes what to do to prevent spreading them. The friendly, conversational tone and relatable scenarios make it easy for kids to see themselves in the story, reinforcing the importance of healthy habits in daily life. The book covers key hygiene practices like coughing into your elbow, not sharing food or drinks when sick, and washing hands properly. A section for parents and caregivers provides additional tips for reinforcing these lessons at home.
With its clear messaging and engaging approach, Germs Are Not for Sharing is an excellent resource for helping children take responsibility for their own health and hygiene. Whether at home, in school, or out in the community, kids will come away with practical steps to stay clean and healthy.
Reviews and Considerations: Parents and teachers praise this book for its simple, effective way of teaching hygiene. Many note that the book helped their children remember to wash their hands more frequently and understand why these habits matter. One parent shared that their child stopped putting their hands in their mouth after reading it, while a teacher found it to be a helpful classroom tool for reinforcing hygiene rules.
Readers also appreciate that the book focuses on positive actions rather than fear, making it a reassuring read. Some reviewers wished it addressed additional hygiene topics, such as the “five-second rule” for dropped food, but overall, it remains a highly recommended resource for introducing children to good hygiene practices in a fun and engaging way.
Summary: Having a pet dragon is fun—until he refuses to eat anything but junk food! Diggory Doo loves pizza, burgers, and sweets but won’t touch fruits or vegetables. His unhealthy eating habits start affecting his energy, focus, and even his ability to play. When Diggory realizes that poor nutrition is making him feel sluggish and unwell, his friend Drew teaches him why eating a balanced diet is important. Through engaging rhymes and colorful illustrations, this story encourages kids to make healthier food choices and try new foods.
Description: This book provides a fun and relatable way for children to learn about healthy eating. Instead of simply telling kids what not to eat, Get Your Dragon to Eat Healthy Food explains the why behind nutrition. It covers the benefits of fruits, vegetables, and a balanced diet while showing how too much junk food can impact energy, mood, and even school performance.
The story presents healthy choices in a positive way, reinforcing that eating well isn’t about restrictions—it’s about feeling strong, energetic, and ready for anything! With engaging storytelling and a gentle approach, this book is perfect for parents, teachers, and caregivers looking to inspire better eating habits in kids.
Reviews and Considerations: Parents and educators love how this book makes healthy eating more approachable for children. Many readers say their kids became more open to trying fruits and vegetables after reading it, and some even started making better food choices on their own. One reviewer shared that their child asked for more broccoli after reading the book, while another mentioned that their picky eater became more willing to explore new foods.
However, some parents felt that certain parts of the book leaned too much into body size as a consequence of unhealthy eating, which might not be the best approach for every child. Others noted that while the book is engaging, it didn’t immediately change their child’s eating habits, but they planned to keep reading it to reinforce the message over time.
Summary: Germs are on the move! From sneezes to handshakes, A Germ’s Journey follows a germ as it travels from person to person, spreading illness along the way. Through a lively and engaging story, this book helps kids understand how germs spread and why proper hygiene is essential for staying healthy. With fun illustrations and a kid-friendly approach, it makes learning about germs both entertaining and informative.
Description: Unlike many books that focus only on washing hands, A Germ’s Journey takes children on an eye-opening adventure, showing them exactly how germs move and multiply. The story uses colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling to explain how germs travel through sneezes, coughs, and everyday contact.
This book is a great tool for helping kids visualize why hygiene matters. It provides just enough “ick factor” to make an impact without being scary. While the primary focus is on germ transmission, the book also includes additional facts and tips to reinforce handwashing and other healthy habits. Whether read at home or in the classroom, A Germ’s Journey is a valuable resource for teaching kids how to prevent the spread of germs.
Reviews and Considerations: Parents and teachers praise this book for its engaging approach to hygiene education. Many reviewers say that the story helped children better understand why they need to cover coughs, wash hands, and avoid spreading germs. One first-grade teacher shared that her students were “thoroughly entertained, grossed out (in a good way), and informed,” while another parent noticed their child washing hands more frequently after reading it.
Some reviewers noted that while the book does an excellent job of explaining how germs spread, it could provide more emphasis on how to stop them. A few also mentioned that the paperback version is not very durable, so they recommend purchasing a hardcover if possible.
Summary: Simon is having the best week ever—at least, that’s what he thinks! He sneezes on his classmates, coughs on his friends, and touches everything in sight, making germs very happy. But when Simon realizes how his actions affect others, he starts learning the right way to take care of himself and prevent spreading illness. This humorous and slightly gross story captures kids’ attention while teaching important lessons about hygiene, handwashing, and self-care.
Description: With its bright, exaggerated illustrations and playful storytelling, Sick Simon makes an often-overlooked topic fun and engaging for kids. The book introduces readers to the reality of how germs spread in an entertaining way, making it easy for children to understand why covering their coughs, washing hands, and resting when sick are essential.
Rather than simply listing hygiene rules, Sick Simon helps kids see the consequences of spreading germs in a way that sticks with them. The mix of humor and just the right amount of “gross factor” ensures that young readers will remember the message long after the story ends. Perfect for home or classroom use, this book is a great conversation starter about personal responsibility and public health.
Reviews and Considerations: Parents, teachers, and caregivers love Sick Simon for its ability to engage children in learning about hygiene. Many reviewers noted that kids immediately started covering their mouths, washing hands more often, and reminding others to do the same after reading it. One parent shared that their three-year-old now tells people, “Cover your mouth! You’re going to get me sick!” A daycare worker appreciated how the book shows both the spread of germs and the steps to fight them, making it a great teaching tool.
Teachers find the book especially effective, often pairing it with hands-on activities to reinforce the lesson. One creative classroom idea involves using a spray bottle to mimic how germs spread when coughing or sneezing—an interactive approach that leaves a lasting impression on students.
While most feedback is positive, some parents found the book a bit too gross, particularly with its vivid illustrations of germs. However, for kids who love humor and a little “ick factor,” Sick Simon is a highly effective way to make hygiene memorable and fun.
Summary: You Are Healthy introduces children to the simple, everyday choices that keep them strong and well. From eating nutritious foods to washing hands and staying active, this book affirms that kids can take charge of their own health. With realistic illustrations and an encouraging tone, this book makes wellness feel approachable and achievable.
Description: Unlike many health books that focus on what not to do, You Are Healthy highlights the positive actions kids can take to stay well. It covers six key areas of health: active play, eating right, washing hands, drinking water, getting enough sleep, and spending time with loved ones. The simple, engaging text makes it easy for young readers to understand, while the diverse, colorful illustrations ensure that all children see themselves represented.
This book is perfect for starting conversations about self-care, making healthy choices, and building lifelong habits. Whether read at home or in the classroom, You Are Healthy is a valuable resource for teaching children the importance of wellness in a way that feels empowering rather than overwhelming.
Reviews and Considerations: Readers appreciate this book for its simple yet impactful message. One parent shared that their child loved pointing out the actions in the book and connecting them to their own daily habits. A teacher noted that the book covers not just physical health but also social and emotional well-being, making it a well-rounded resource for young learners.
The artwork is widely praised for its diversity, with many reviewers noting that children of all backgrounds can see themselves in the pages. Some readers wished the book had more in-depth information, but most agreed that its straightforward approach makes it a great introduction to healthy habits for young children.
For families and educators looking to encourage a positive mindset about health, You Are Healthy is an excellent choice that affirms kids’ ability to make good choices for their well-being.
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