Children are natural artists, seeing the world with fresh eyes, full of wonder and awe, questioning the mundane, and constantly exploring their environment. Their curiosity fuels an unquenchable thirst for understanding, making them eager participants in the grand adventure of learning.
Art, much like the spirit of childhood, is an adventure of discovery and interpretation. Artists, like our young ones, possess a unique ability to appreciate the ordinary and perceive the world with a vibrant, aesthetic lens. They seek beauty in overlooked places, asking questions that allow them to unearth new depths of understanding.
For our budding explorers and knowledge seekers, art plays a critical role in their holistic development. It provides them with a platform to express themselves and channel their innate creativity towards innovative pursuits. These explorations enhance their social, emotional, and cognitive competencies, enriching their understanding of the world around them.
The collection of childrens art books curated in this blog post serves as a celebration of this creative spirit. These books inspire imaginative thinking and encourage a love for the arts. They also offer insights into the lives and works of great artists, practical tutorials, and step-by-step guides. But their reach extends beyond just an exploration of artistic techniques.
These art book teach children about the limitless potential of art to foster inclusivity and understanding. They promote an environment of coexistence, tolerance, and mutual respect, underscoring the power of art to build bridges and connect hearts.
And if you’re seeking further book recommendations, do check out my other blog, Selected Reads, where the joy of reading continues to unfold.
For more educational art materials to use in your teaching, check out best art resources for teachers and students.
Childrens Art Books
Here are our top picks for childrens Art books. For drawing, check this list on the best books on learning how to draw.
1. Aaron Slater, Illustrator, by Andrea Beaty
“Aaron Slater, Illustrator” is an inspiring tale of a young boy named Aaron, who, despite his dyslexia, learns that there’s more than one way to express oneself. The story celebrates the power of individuality and creativity, and the strength in recognizing that our differences don’t define us but rather contribute to our unique identities. This book, printed in dyslexia-friendly font, offers an encouraging message for children grappling with learning disabilities.
2. ABCs of Art (Sabrina Hahn’s Art & Concepts for Kids), by Sabrina Hahn
“ABCs of Art” is a delightful journey through the alphabet, guided by some of the world’s most celebrated art pieces. From ‘A’ with Leonardo da Vinci to ‘Z’ with Mary Cassatt, the book helps children learn the alphabet, colors, and counting in the most artistic way possible. It invites kids to engage with art, prompting them to find elements within renowned artworks, and fostering an early appreciation for the art world.
3. Sky Color (Creatrilogy), by Peter H. Reynolds
“Sky Color” follows the story of Marisol, a young girl who loves to paint. When asked to paint the sky for a school mural, she faces a creative hurdle—how to paint the sky without blue paint. Through observing the world around her and opening her mind to imagination, she discovers the limitless possibilities of creativity. This award-winning book is a lovely reminder for children that inspiration often lies beyond the obvious.
4. The Dot, by Peter H Reynolds
“The Dot” tells a story of Vashti, a young girl who believes she cannot draw. After her teacher encourages her to “just make a mark,” she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning that creativity starts with a single step—or in this case, a single dot. This book provides a powerful lesson about believing in oneself and the potential of small actions to ignite a path of creativity.
5. The Art Lesson, by Tomie dePaola
“The Art Lesson” is a heartwarming tale about Tommy, a young boy with dreams of becoming an artist. When he starts school and encounters the strict “rules” of his art lessons, he is initially disheartened.
However, his wise art teacher manages to strike a balance, offering Tommy the freedom to express his individuality while staying within the boundaries. This story gracefully highlights the importance of nurturing creativity while respecting structure and guidelines.
6. The Drawing Book for Kids, by Woo! Jr. Kids Activities
“The Drawing Book for Kids” is a bestseller that is an essential tool for any child seeking to learn the craft of drawing. Providing 365 unique drawing prompts—one for each day of the year—this book is a powerful resource that combines fun and learning. The step-by-step guides make drawing approachable and enjoyable, helping children to cultivate a new skill set that extends beyond the pages of the book.
7. Vincent’s Starry Night and Other Stories: A Children’s History of Art, by Michael Bird
“Vincent’s Starry Night and Other Stories: A Children’s History of Art” takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the evolution of art. From the earliest cave paintings to the contemporary masterpieces of today, this book guides children through 68 intriguing tales about artists and their unique creations.
Written by educator and art historian Michael Bird and illustrated by Kate Evans, the book is not just an engaging narrative but also an immersive visual experience that expands young readers’ understanding of art.
8. Anywhere Artist Hardcover, by Nikki Slade Robinson
“Anywhere Artist” is a charming story about a young girl who finds inspiration in the world around her, transforming found objects into pieces of art. With its concise, delightful text and illustrations, this book encourages children to see the potential for art in their surroundings, nurturing their creative instincts and encouraging them to create art from everyday items.
9. The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be, by Joanna Gaines
“The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be” is a #1 New York Times bestseller by Joanna Gaines that teaches children about the beauty of individuality and acceptance. Illustrated by Julianna Swaney, the story follows a group of children building their own hot-air balloons, emphasizing the vibrancy and richness that our differences bring to the world. The book beautifully demonstrates that creativity combined with acceptance results in a brighter, more exciting adventure.
10. Hey, Wall: A Story of Art and Community, by Susan Verde
“Hey, Wall: A Story of Art and Community” tells the tale of a young boy who takes on an art project to beautify his neighborhood. This inspiring picture book, illustrated by the award-winning artist John Parra, showcases the power of art to unite communities and transform spaces. With its empowering message, the book inspires children to use art to make a positive impact on their surroundings.
11. Draw Paint Print like the Great Artists, by Marion Deuchars
“Draw Paint Print like the Great Artists” is an engaging activity book that cleverly combines art history with hands-on learning. Over thirty renowned artists are introduced, along with their famous techniques, in a manner that’s both fun and educational. Following a succinct introduction to each artist’s life and work, young readers are presented with creative projects that Marion has developed, providing them a chance to experiment with the artists’ unique techniques.
12. I’m NOT just a Scribble…by Diane Alber
“I’m NOT just a Scribble…” is a heartwarming story about embracing our differences and celebrating diversity. The central character, Scribble, feels left out due to his distinct appearance. Through Scribble’s journey, children learn the power of acceptance and the beauty of individuality. This book is richly illustrated in a style that children can easily identify with and presents a powerful message about inclusion in a manner that is relatable to kids of all ages.
13. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Board book, by Eric Carle
“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” is an iconic children’s book loved by generations worldwide. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its vibrant, interactive die-cut pages that teach children counting and the days of the week. Sold somewhere every 30 seconds, this timeless classic is perfect for small hands and is certain to remain a beloved choice for teaching early learning concepts.
14. How to Draw 101 Animals , by Dan Green, Imagine That
“How to Draw 101 Animals” is a comprehensive guide that makes drawing accessible and enjoyable for children. The book offers simple step-by-step illustrations that build children’s confidence in their drawing abilities. With 101 different animal images in various shapes, sizes, and poses, young artists are sure to stay engaged and excited as they hone their drawing skills and discover their own artistic style.
Final thoughts
In concluding this collection of art books for kids, let me reiterate that these books aren’t just about learning to draw, paint, or recognize famous works; they are about empowering children to see the world through a lens of wonder and endless possibility. Each story, each activity, is a stepping stone to building a resilient, inclusive mindset where art becomes a universal language of expression and connection. They remind us that the blank canvas of youth, filled with vibrant dreams and unfiltered curiosity, can lead to a lifetime of exploration and innovation.
Besides teaching techniques, these art books open hearts and minds to the boundless potential within each child. They stand as a testament to the idea that art education is as much about nurturing the soul as it is about training the hand. For those who want to delve further into the power of literature in shaping young minds, my other blog, Selected Reads, continues this dialogue, offering a wealth of book recommendations to kindle the flame of learning.
