Kids have a love-hate relationship with shoes. They might love to wear them with their favorite outfits, but putting them on and taking them off can be a struggle. So how do we encourage them to see shoes in a positive light?
It's no secret that kids shoes come in a range of colors, shapes, and sizes. But did you know that several brilliant children's books focus entirely on the topic of kids shoes? Yes, shoes can be entertaining! These books are fun, educational, and packed with plenty of imagination - all while teaching your little one about the importance of footwear. Let's dive straight in!
Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes, written by Eric Litwin and James Dean
This book is perfect for kids aged three to seven years. The story is about Pete the Cat, who has the coolest white shoes. As he goes on to share his happiness, he encounters various situations, like stepping in piles of strawberries, blueberries, and mud. Although his white shoes change color every few pages, Pete keeps moving on with a happy attitude! The book is easy to read and will surely make your little ones laugh as they follow Pete's journey.
New Shoes by Susan Lynn Meyer and Eric Velasquez
"Mama, when can I get some new shoes?" Sarah's mom answers that they will get a new pair of shoes when they save more money. Dreams of shiny new kid shoes stay with Sarah day and night, inspiring her to mend many things so her parents spend less. Finally, the moment comes when her mom says they will soon be buying a pair of new kids shoes. Together they search and find a fantastic colorful pair of shoes. This book is a great read for kids aged five to nine years.
The Elves and the Shoemaker, written by Jim LaMarche
This picture book for children aged four to eight years tells the delightful story of a shoemaker and his wife who, with the help of some friendly elves, create special girls and boys kid shoes that are perfect for their little customers. Young children will delight in the stunning illustrations and likely fall in love with the two elves that come to the shoemaker's shop at night. This is a classic story everyone will enjoy.
Two Shoes, Blue Shoes, New Shoes by Sally Fitzgibbons and Sarah Davis
This board book is intended for kids aged one to three years. The book takes the reader on a journey through the eyes of a toddler wearing size six kids shoes. The illustrations are beautifully done in watercolors, and the rhyming is amazing. It gives children an idea of what to expect and shows that a pair of shoes can be fun and functional at the same time. If you're about to purchase your first pair of infants shoes, this is the book for you!
Shoes from Grandpa by Mem Fox and Patricia Mullins
This book is about a little girl who receives a pair of shoes from her grandpa. The shoes are old and worn out, but the little girl loves them because they remind her of her grandpa. This book is a great reminder for kids that sometimes the things we love the most are not the newest or fanciest but the ones with the most sentimental value.
The END
Children's books about kids shoes are not only entertaining but also educational. They can teach kids about colors, hygiene, confidence, generosity, and sentimental value. As parents and care providers, we can use these books to spark conversations with our kids about the importance of footwear and how it can affect our lives. We hope you enjoy reading these books with your little ones and learning important lessons together.