4 Children’s Books That Encourage Healthy Habits

4 Children’s Books That Encourage Healthy Habits
(YuryImaging)
Barbara Danza
Updated:

The more kids can learn about the foods they eat, where they come from, how they affect their bodies, and what choices available to them, the better equipped they'll be to make healthy choices and establish healthy habits throughout their lives. Here are four children’s books that empower kids and encourage a healthy lifestyle.

‘Cooking Class’ by Deanna F. Cook

(Storey Publishing)
(Storey Publishing)

If you have picky eaters at home or simply want to introduce your children to the to the art of cooking, this well-organized, easy-to-follow children’s cookbook hits all the rights notes.

With an introductory chapter that covers safety, vocabulary, tools, and best practices, along with a collection of thoroughly illustrated, clearly explained recipes, kids are given the keys to the kitchen to create and enjoy.

Many parents find that their kids will try more foods when they take part in the preparation of their meals. Certainly, this book can foster that experience.

‘It’s Our Garden—From Seed to Harvest in a School Garden’ by George Ancona

(Candlewick)
(Candlewick)

This lovely book chronicles the true story of a school garden in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and its impact on students, teachers, and the community. 

Readers will learn about gardening through all four seasons, a wide variety of foods that can be grown, and the power of communities working together.

‘What the World Eats’ by Faith D’Aluisio

(Tricycle Press)
(Tricycle Press)

This photographic journey, written by Faith D'Aluisio and photographed by Peter Menzel, takes readers around the world, opening children’s eyes to the different cuisines of various cultures. 

Packed with lovely pictures of families in their kitchens, recipes, data on food consumption, maps, and more, children will receive an education on the similarities and differences between how people eat around the globe.

‘Growing Vegetable Soup’ by Lois Ehlert

(HMH Books for Young Readers)
(HMH Books for Young Readers)

For the youngest readers, this colorful board book presents each stage of the process of “growing vegetable soup” from seed to bowl. Complete with plant labels and a recipe, older siblings will find much to enjoy as well in this thoroughly satisfying picture book.

Barbara Danza is a contributing editor covering family and lifestyle topics. Her articles focus on homeschooling, family travel, entrepreneurship, and personal development. She contributes children’s book reviews to the weekly booklist and is the editor of “Just For Kids,” the newspaper’s print-only page for children. Her website is BarbaraDanza.com
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