22 Winter Children Picture Books to Read and Love Together

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One of the things I really love is when parents make a real effort to encourage their kids to read. 

It’s such a special way to open up the world to them, and it helps build a lifelong love for books. 

I was definitely a voracious reader as a kid too, even though I didn’t have tons of resources or a big library nearby. I ended up reading my English textbook over and over again – sometimes it felt like my only option. 

That’s why I wanted to put together a list of the most cozy winter books for children. 

These are some of the very best books I’ve found, perfect for those chilly days when you just want to curl up with a warm blanket and a great story. 

I’ve made sure to check that these books are suitable for different age groups, so you can find just the right fit for your child.

To make things easier, I’ve divided the list into sections based on age, but before that, I’ll share my top 10 favorite picks that any kid is sure to love. 

Regardless of whether you’re looking for something for a toddler or a preteen, this list has cozy winter stories that will warm the heart and spark the imagination.

Winter is Here by Kevin Henkes & Laura Dronzek

If you’re looking for a gentle and beautiful way to introduce kids to winter, Winter Is Here is perfect. 

I really love how this book makes winter feel magical and peaceful. 

The words are simple but full of wonder, and the pictures make you want to wrap yourself in a blanket and look out the window. 

It talks about everything we see and feel in winter – snowflakes, mittens, animals hiding away, and that special hush that comes with the cold. 

It’s one of those cozy winter picture books for toddlers and preschoolers that feels like a warm hug. 

It also makes a great bedtime story for chilly nights. 

If your child is learning about the seasons, this is such a sweet way to show them how winter quietly sneaks in and makes the world sparkle. I read this and felt instantly calmer.

I Definitely Don’t Like Winter by Fiona Barker & Christine Pym

This one had me giggling. I Definitely Don’t Like Winter is such a fun winter read-aloud book for kids. 

It’s about two best friends, Hank and Hoog, who just can’t agree – Hank hates the cold, while Hoog LOVES everything winter brings.

The falling leaves, the cold winds, and the snow split them at first, but watching them work through their differences was so sweet. 

I really loved the message here: we don’t all have to love winter the same way, but friendship and kindness always come first. 

The illustrations are adorable, and it has that kind of humor that makes little ones laugh out loud.

Winter children’s books don’t always have to be about snow – they can also be about feelings, friendship, and learning to see things from someone else’s point of view. This one’s pure joy.

Bear Has a Story to Tell by Philip C. Stead & Erin E. Stead

I think this is one of the softest, most patient winter bedtime stories I’ve read. 

Bear wants to tell a story, but all his forest friends are too busy getting ready for winter. 

I loved how gentle he was – helping everyone even though they couldn’t stay to listen. 

It made me think about how we sometimes have to wait for the right time, even if we’re excited. 

The art is soft and peaceful, and the winter forest scenes are just so calming. It’s perfect for quiet reading during cold winter afternoons. 

If you’re looking for winter picture books about friendship and kindness, Bear Has a Story to Tell is a gentle reminder of how helping others is just as important as being heard.

I think this would be lovely for kids who are learning to be patient and thoughtful.

Almost Time by Gary D. Schmidt & Elizabeth Stickney

Almost Time is such a heartfelt father-and-son winter book. 

It’s about waiting – waiting for the snow to melt, for the sap to flow, and for maple syrup to finally be ready.

I love how this story gently teaches patience through the eyes of a little boy eager for his favorite treat. 

The winter scenes feel real, not too magical, just calm and lovely – like a quiet walk with your dad. 

If you want seasonal children’s books about family, routines, and change, this one is full of warmth. 

It’s not loud or flashy, but that’s why I liked it. It shows how winter slowly shifts into spring, and how sweet moments are worth waiting for. 

I thought it was such a beautiful reminder that good things take time. Plus, it made me want pancakes.

Blizzard by John Rocco

Now this one is full of action. Blizzard is based on a real winter storm that dropped over four feet of snow. I found it exciting and inspiring. 

It shows how one brave boy helps his neighbors after they’ve been snowed in for days. 

The winter scenes are bold and dramatic, but also fun and full of heart. 

If you’re looking for exciting winter books for kids who love adventure, this one is a great pick. 

The snow-covered streets, the homemade snowshoes, and the small acts of kindness made me smile.

I liked how it teaches kids that even little people can do big things – especially in winter when helping hands matter most. 

It’s perfect for snowy day reading or for kids learning about real-life winter weather events. It even made me want to build a snow fort.

A Day So Gray by Marie Lamba & Alea Marley

A Day So Gray is about seeing the beauty in things – even when the sky is dull and everything feels brown and gray. 

It starts with a girl saying the day is boring, but her friend gently shows her all the colors hiding in plain sight – purple shadows, orange berries, and blue skies peeking through. 

I think this is such a beautiful book for helping kids change their mindset. 

I loved how it reminded me that winter isn’t just gray – it’s full of hidden colors. 

It’s a perfect pick if you’re looking for thoughtful winter books for children that focus on mindfulness and perspective. 

I’d definitely read this during those winter days that feel long or a bit gloomy. It encourages looking closer and seeing the magic around us. So simple, so sweet.

First Snow by Peter McCarty

There’s something magical about First Snow, and I think it’s one of the sweetest books about winter experiences. 

It follows Pedro as he sees snow for the first time and everything is new and exciting. Snowflakes, sledding, and snowballs make it all joyful and full of wonder. 

The illustrations are so soft and dreamy, and they really make you feel like you’re out in the snow too. 

I love how this book captures the feeling of discovering winter for the first time. 

If you want winter-themed children’s books that focus on first experiences, this is a perfect one. It reminded me of how magical snow can be when it’s fresh and new. 

I think it’s especially great for kids who haven’t seen snow yet or who are just starting to enjoy winter. Such a charming, heartwarming read.

When This World Was New by D.H. Figueredo & Enrique O. Sanchez

This one truly touched my heart. When This World Was New is a story about starting over in a new place and feeling scared, but finding joy in small things. 

Danilito moves from the Caribbean to snowy New York City. Everything is different, and he’s nervous. But when his dad takes him outside to play in the snow, something changes. 

I loved how this winter immigration book for kids gently talks about being brave, starting fresh, and finding comfort in family. 

The snow becomes a symbol of discovery and hope. I think it’s perfect for any child facing change or feeling out of place. 

The ending made me smile. It’s one of those quiet stories that really stays with you.

Making a Friend by Tammi Sauer & Alison Friend

Making a Friend is such a fun and warm winter story for kids about friendship. 

Beaver wants to make a friend – literally. So, he builds a snowman, thinking it’ll be the perfect buddy. But along the way, he meets Raccoon, and something real begins to grow. 

I absolutely loved this sweet book about how sometimes we find connection in the most unexpected ways. 

The illustrations are full of fun winter play, which is perfect for kids who love snowy activities and outdoor adventures. 

It’s one of those snowy winter friendship books that’ll make you laugh and feel all cozy inside. 

I liked how it showed that friendships can be built just like snowmen with care, creativity, and teamwork. 

It’s a perfect read for snuggling on the couch with hot cocoa and talking about what makes a good friend.

Bunny Slopes by Claudia Rueda

Bunny Slopes is so playful and interactive and it made me laugh out loud. You get to help Bunny ski down the hill, avoid danger, and even shake the book to make it snow.

I think it’s one of the best interactive winter books for young readers.

 It keeps little hands busy and little minds giggling. I loved how this book turns the snowy season into a fun game. 

It’s perfect for active little readers who love to touch, tilt, and turn the pages. 

The story is light, silly, and full of snowy fun. I think it’s great for kids who might not be big on reading yet – it draws them in without feeling like a lesson. 

I’d definitely read this on a snowy morning with giggles and a warm blanket nearby. Bunny is so lovable.

I hope this list of cozy winter books helps you find the perfect stories to share with your little ones this season. 

Reading together is such a wonderful way to create warm memories and keep the magic of winter alive. 

If you’re looking for more book recommendations, don’t forget to check out my related posts on Best Bedtime Stories for Kids and How to Create a Cozy Reading Nook at Home.