Father's Day is coming up way faster than expected (doesn't it always happen that way?), and if you're still wondering what you should get for the father figure in your children's lives, these dad-centric children's books are actual Father's Day goals. Not only will your child love bonding with their dad (or step-dad, grandpa, uncle, whoever is special enough for them) over these adorable reads, you'll also be fostering their love for reading too, which is always a good thing. So if that sounds good to you, then you'll want some daddy and me children's books for Father's Day to honor the special man in their life.
Some of these books are warm and heartfelt, cultivating all the feels (cue the tears), while others are just straight-up silly. Either way, the focus of every narrative is right on dear old dad — which is exactly where it's supposed to be. Bonus, you can find them all on Amazon for super cheap so you don't actually have to go to the store and buy something (who has the time for that anyway). But hurry because Father's Day is Sunday, June 16, so it's a good idea to put these orders in sooner rather than later.
1
'No More Poems' by Rhett Miller & illustrated by Dan Santat
This collection of 23 rhyming poems is full of humor and topics your child may deal with such as bullying and annoying siblings. Meant to be read aloud, this book will surely evoke some laughs and entertain your child with the colorful art that accompanies the funny poems. It’s a great way to get your child interested in reading. Warning: Toilet humor very much included.
2
'My Daddy And Me' by Liesbet Slegers
Show your child some activities that other animals do with their dads in this interactive picture book. The pages include flaps that reveal more bright and colorful illustrations. It’s a fun way to show your child a father-child relationship in an understandable way, and this book will truly grab your child’s attention and keep it.
3
'Dandy' by Amy Dyckman & illustrated by Charles Santoso
After a single weed pops up on Daddy the lion’s lawn, his daughter Sweetie falls in love with it and even names the flower Charlotte. Daddy wants to get rid of the weed as neighbors begin to notice and mock him, but he has to figure out a way to get rid of it without upsetting his daughter. This book makes for a great bedtime story.
4
'Little White Fish and His Daddy' by Guido Van Genechten
Little White Fish has many friends with talented dads. This picture book teaches children that everyone is different and special in their own way. Everyone has a skill despite the fact that they come from various backgrounds. Explore the ocean with your child and show them the various talents each sea creature father has.
5
'Love' by Matt de la Pena & illustrated by Loren Long
This #1 New York Times Bestseller is a heartfelt picture book that teaches children how love can be found in many things like art, nature, and other people. The detailed illustrations by Loren Long depict love and relationships with soothing sunsets and captivating landscapes, and the lessons in this book can be carried throughout your child’s life. It’s a simple, eye-catching way to share this universal bond we all have.
6
'Hop On Pop' by Dr. Seuss
This classic Dr. Seuss book encourages children to read with humorous rhyming and equally entertaining illustrations. Enjoyed by many generations in the past, Hop on Pop is an easy read, which also allows your child to stay engaged. Add this book to your probably already existing Dr. Seuss collection as it also shows a fun-loving relationship between a father and his children.
7
'Guess How Much I Love You' by Sam McBratney & illustrated by Anita Jeram
Little Nutbrown Hare wants to show Big Nutbrown Hare how much he loves him. Similar to most of the books on this list, Guess How Much I Love You teaches your child about love and bonding with their dad. It’s a unique read as it includes a conversation between a daddy hare and a baby hare. The soft illustrations show the adorable, tender moments in this book.
8
'Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale' by Mo Willems
When a father and daughter go to the laundromat, Trixie realizes her Knuffle Bunny is missing. This story about a child and her missing stuffed animal is truly relatable and can resonate with any child who has their own favorite toy or blanket, but you can also explore the relationship between Trixie and her daddy as they go on their adventure. It’s a sweet story accompanied by entertaining illustrations.
