Right now, kids are learning more than ever how quickly germs and viruses spread.  It's so important to teach healthy habits and teach our kids how to stay healthy, whether at home or in school.  These are some of my favorite books to share with kids about healthy habits that stop the spread of germs.

1. Germs vs. Soap by Didi Dragon

“Germs vs. Soap” is a funny story that kids love, because the germs are just SO funny.  It shows them just how much germs DO NOT like soap. The germs try to do everything they to trick kids into NOT washing their hands with soap.  It is a fun way to teach kids about proper hand washing while providing a few laughs.

2. Lucy's Mask by Lisa Sirkis Thompson

“Lucy's Mask” is a really cute story about wearing a mask.  Lucy is excited about her mom making her a new mask and thinks about all the things that she can be or do with a mask on…just as many kids think of masks as being worn by superheros, detectives, or pirates.  The mask her mom makes is not a dress up/make believe mask, but a real mask that makes Lucy a real life superhero, saving the world!  For kids that may have questions or feel anxious about wearing a mask, this book can be a great conversation starter about how wearing a mask helps stop the spread of germs and keeps us and others healthy.

3. Do Not Lick This Book by Idan Ben-Barak and Julian Frost

“Do Not Lick This Book” takes “Min” the microbe on an adventure to see how easily germs spread.  It gives a glance at everyday things through a microscope, like the pages of the book, a tooth, a shirt, and even the inside of your belly button.  And other microbes are picked up along the way.  Kids love the silliness of the story and you'll love the close up look at how easily germs can spread.

4. Sick Simon by Dan Krall

“Sick Simon” is a funny story with funny pictures that kids love, but it also really shows kids how important it is to stay home when you are not feeling well.  Germs spread quickly and even if you have somewhere to go, a favorite activity, or an important event; staying home to rest will help you feel better but it will also keep others healthy too.

5.  A Little Spot Stays Home by Diane Alber

“A Little Spot Stays Home” teaches kids about viruses and germs and how they spread while also helping them understand why it is important to stay home and keep a safe distance from others. There is a lot of important vocabulary to share while also helping kids have a positive outlook.

6. While We Can't Hug by Eoin McLaughlin

“While We Can't Hug” is a sweet story about Hedgehog and Tortoise.  They were the best of friends and wanted to give each other big hugs, but they could not. They learn other ways to show someone you care like waving to each other, blowing kisses, singing songs, dancing around and writing letters. And even though they can't hug and they can't touch, they both know that they are loved. Your kids will love this uplifting story of Hedgehog and Tortoise that explains social distancing.

7. If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug by Katie Sedmak

“If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug” is an uplifting book that shows the creative ways animals might show affection while socially distancing and delivers a reassuring message that you can still say hello and show others you care while staying safe and healthy.

You might also like to check out this “Healthy Habits” activity, in printable and digital versions.  There are seven short writing prompts about healthy habits, in and out of school.

*Please note that this post does contain affiliate links and I make a small commission off of books purchased through these links. *

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Happy Teaching!