A great way to introduce autumn and the changing of seasons to preschoolers is to read about it. Here are ten great books to include during story time about the fall season.
10 Books About Fall for Preschoolers
Apple Farmer Annie by Monica Wellington
In this autumn tale, toddlers will go apple picking with Annie, and then make some delicious pies, applesauce, and more. From there, Annie goes to the farmers market to sell her homemade harvest. Learning about counting and sorting, preschoolers will enjoy this fun adventure with Annie.
Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf by Lois Ehlert
From seed to sprout, a young sugar maple is taken to a new home and planted. The life of the tree is revealed throughout the book as it grows and develops with the different seasons. Brightly colored collages and watercolors will keep children engaged in this visually appealing story. Have students create their own fall watercolor masterpieces after reading the story.
Giving Thanks by Jonathan London and Gregory Manchess
This book emphasizes the importance of giving thanks and being grateful for what one has. Preschoolers will begin to share in the appreciation of nature with a father and his son. Beautiful illustrations create a heartfelt story with a moral message that is sure to lead to great discussion and learning.
Tap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson
Count, tap, swish, and shake with this magical tale of an apple tree. Children are able to help the apple tree grow and experience the four seasons through action and concentration. Easy to read and creatively illustrated, toddlers will not be able to put this interactive book down.
Woody, Hazel and Little Pip by Elsa Maartman Beskow
This story about the adventures of little acorn children getting blown away in the wind will captivate young learners. Charming illustrations of the magical woodlands and its creatures will spark and ignite the imaginations of both readers and listeners.
A Friend for All Seasons by Julia Hubery
Experience the activities of fall and prepare for winter hibernation through the eyes of Robbie the raccoon. As he begins to understand the cycle of life by watching Old Father Oak, he learns about autumn and is introduced to the changing of the seasons.
I Know It’s Autumn by Eileen Spinelli
Preschoolers will begin to recognize the start of fall by attributing certain actions and activities that are associated with this season. From hayrides to apple picking, this story brings autumn to life through rhyming text and detailed illustrations.
The Busy Little Squirrel by Nancy Tafuri
Learn all about the life of squirrels through this delightful board book. Easy to read with big and colorful artwork, preschoolers will discover what squirrels do in autumn season to get ready for winter. Stimulate imaginations using a furry little critter to bring your story to life.
Sophie’s Squash by Pat Zietlow Miller and Anne Wilsdorf
This story is a beautiful tale about love and patience. When Sophie goes to the farmers market to pick a squash for dinner, she ends up befriending it. Toddlers discover an unlikely friendship while being encouraged to use their own imagination.
The Little Scarecrow Boy by Margaret Wise Brown
Learning to be a good scarecrow can be tough. In this book, a little scarecrow is eager to go out into the field and help his father scare the crows away, but his father insists he practice longer. With preparation and determination, this little scarecrow finally proves he is ready. Teaching toddlers about hard work and perseverance, this story is a great addition to any preschool library.
What are some of your favorite books about fall to share with early learners?