Books About Child Development

The Best Child Development Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about child development? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Series

Series

Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Child Development

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 3–8 · 2019

I'm Happy-Sad Today

By Lory Britain, Matthew Rivera (Illustrator)

Navigate the whirlwind of emotions and discover that all feelings are okay.

40 pages· 607 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 254 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: A little girl explores the whirlwind of emotions, from happy to sad, excited to nervous. As she navigates these mixed feelings, she learns she doesn't have to choose just one. With charming illustrations, this story reassures young readers that all emotions are valid. A special section offers adults guidance on helping children understand and express their feelings.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2010

Your Fantastic Elastic Brain

By JoAnn Deak Ph.D., Sarah Ackerley (Illustrator)

Discover how mistakes help your brain grow and unlock its potential.

32 pages· 1,104 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,082 ratings

$18.95Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Dive into the wonders of the brain with Dr. JoAnn Deak's engaging guide for young minds. Learn how your brain can stretch and grow, just like muscles, and why making mistakes is key to learning. With vibrant illustrations and accessible insights, this book empowers children to embrace challenges and develop a growth mindset. Perfect for curious kids and essential for classrooms, it reveals the secrets of brain anatomy and functions, inspiring a lifelong love of learning. What new possibilities will you unlock by stretching your fantastic, elastic brain?

Sale price

$1348

Picture Book · Ages 3–6 · 1983

Alfie Gives a Hand

By Shirley Hughes · Alfie series

A nervous boy attends a party alone and discovers unexpected confidence.

32 pages· 1,118 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 321 ratings

$13.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Alfie is thrilled yet anxious about attending Bernard's birthday party by himself. As he navigates the excitement and challenges of the celebration, Alfie learns he can enjoy himself without his comforting blanket. Along the way, he discovers newfound confidence and even makes a new friend. Will this experience change how Alfie views his independence?

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1955

Hello, Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle

By Betty MacDonald, Alexandra Boiger (Illustrator) · Book #4 in the Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle series

A magical problem solver cures children's quirky habits with whimsical remedies.

125 pages· 26,923 words· Est. 4 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 16,012 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Meet Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, the enchanting problem solver who adores children, especially when they're well-behaved. Armed with a chest of magical cures, she tackles peculiar habits like invisibility for show-offs and anti-slowpoke spray for daydreamers. Can her whimsical remedies transform these quirky kids? Discover the delightful solutions in this charming tale.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

Dear Boy,

By Paris Rosenthal, Jason B. Rosenthal, Holly Hatam (Illustrator) · Dear Girl, series

A collection of letters to a young boy offering guidance and encouragement on various aspects of life.

40 pages· 324 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 992 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In 'Dear Boy,' a heartfelt picture book, a father-daughter duo crafts a love letter to boys everywhere. With tender words and enchanting illustrations, it reminds boys they are unique, clever, and compassionate. Whether helping others, singing, or dreaming big, this book encourages them to embrace their true selves. Will they trust in magic and pursue their dreams? Discover the joy of being amazing just as you are.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1949

Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle's Magic

By Hilary Knight (Illustrator) · Book #2 in the Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle series

A magical woman cures children's bad habits with whimsical solutions.

192 pages· 31,695 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 15,321 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, adored by all, has a knack for solving children's troublesome habits with her magical remedies. When Mrs. Burbank's kids become Thought-You-Saiders or Sharon turns into a Heedless Breaker, Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle steps in with her enchanting cures. Her unconventional methods, like using a pig to teach table manners or hunting pirate treasure to cure boredom, promise laughter and transformation. What other surprises does her upside-down house hold? Discover the magic and mischief in this delightful tale of whimsical problem-solving.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2006

Walk On!

By Marla Frazee

A baby dares to take their first steps, discovering a new world.

40 pages· 329 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

5.0/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 1,034 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: A baby, weary of sitting, decides to stand and take their first steps. As they rise, the world transforms, offering new perspectives and challenges. Will they conquer the fear of falling and embrace the adventure of walking? This charming tale captures the universal journey of taking that first, brave step into the unknown.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 2–6 · 2019

You Are New

By Lucy Knisley

Discover the world anew through a baby's eyes in this heartwarming tale.

52 pages· 231 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

5.0/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,007 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Welcome to a world of firsts, where every nap, cry, and cuddle is an adventure. This charming book invites newborns and their parents to explore the joys of new beginnings. With playful rhymes and delightful illustrations, it captures the essence of being new and the love that transforms lives. Perfect for baby showers or bedtime, this story is a gentle reminder of the wonder and warmth that a new life brings. Will you join in the celebration of these precious moments?

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2011

Dolphin Baby!

By Nicola Davies, Brita Granström (Illustrator) · Read and Wonder series

A baby dolphin navigates survival and discovery in the ocean's depths.

32 pages· 683 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

3.9/5 Goodreads · 264 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Dive into the ocean with a newborn dolphin as he embarks on a journey of survival and discovery. Guided by his mother, he learns to swim, catch fish, and develop his own unique whistle. Each splash and leap reveals the wonders of life beneath the waves. Will he master the skills needed to thrive in the vast sea? Experience the vibrant world of dolphins through a blend of engaging storytelling and vivid illustrations, capturing the energy and movement of these fascinating creatures.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2020

The Problem with Problems

By Rachel Rooney, Zehra Hicks (Illustrator) · Problems/Worries/Fears series

Discover how to tackle pesky problems that appear in unexpected ways.

32 pages· 308 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

3.9/5 Goodreads · 348 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In a world where problems take on a life of their own, learn how to face them head-on. This imaginative tale turns problems into creatures, offering a fresh perspective on managing emotions. As these quirky beings pop up at the worst times, uncover the secrets to making them vanish. With a focus on communication and emotional intelligence, this story provides valuable lessons for both children and adults. Will you learn to conquer your most troublesome challenges? Dive into this whimsical journey and find out.

The Bookroo Book Club