Presidents Day Read Alouds
Introduction
Presidents Day is a national holiday celebrated in the United States to honor the past presidents of the country. It provides an excellent opportunity to teach children about the history, achievements, and leadership qualities of these influential figures. One of the best ways to engage children in learning about presidents is through read alouds. By reading books aloud, kids can develop their reading skills, expand their knowledge, and gain a deeper understanding of the presidency. In this article, we will explore a selection of Presidents Day read alouds that are perfect for children of all ages.
1. "So You Want to Be President?" by Judith St. George
"So You Want to Be President?" is a delightful book that takes children on a journey through the lives of various presidents. It introduces them to the challenges, responsibilities, and quirks of the presidency. With captivating illustrations by David Small, this book provides an entertaining and educational read aloud experience.
2. "Duck for President" by Doreen Cronin
In "Duck for President," Doreen Cronin presents a humorous tale of a duck who decides to run for president. This engaging story explores the election process in a lighthearted way, making it perfect for young readers. It also teaches important lessons about democracy, leadership, and the power of individuals to make a difference.
3. "Abe Lincoln's Hat" by Martha Brenner
"Abe Lincoln's Hat" is a fascinating read aloud that focuses on one of America's most beloved presidents, Abraham Lincoln. This book explores the extraordinary life of Lincoln and his many accomplishments. It also highlights the significance of his iconic hat and how it became a symbol of his presidency.
4. "Grace for President" by Kelly S. DiPucchio
"Grace for President" tells the story of a young girl named Grace who decides to run for class president. Inspired by a visit to the National Portrait Gallery, Grace is determined to break the mold and become the first female president of the United States. This empowering read aloud promotes gender equality and encourages children to pursue their dreams.
5. "My Teacher for President" by Kay Winters
"My Teacher for President" is a charming book that explores the idea of having a teacher as the president. Through the eyes of a young student, this read aloud presents a humorous and imaginative perspective on the qualities that make a great leader. It also emphasizes the importance of education and the impact teachers have on their students.
6. "The Camping Trip that Changed America" by Barb Rosenstock
"The Camping Trip that Changed America" tells the true story of President Theodore Roosevelt and the camping trip that led to the creation of Yosemite National Park. This captivating read aloud highlights the conservation efforts of Roosevelt and the importance of preserving the natural beauty of America for future generations.
7. "If I Ran for President" by Catherine Stier
In "If I Ran for President," Catherine Stier introduces children to the process of running for president. This informative read aloud takes young readers through the various steps, from campaigning to addressing important issues. It also emphasizes the qualities and values necessary for a successful presidency.
8. "George Washington's Teeth" by Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora
"George Washington's Teeth" provides a unique perspective on the first president of the United States. This read aloud explores the fascinating story behind George Washington's dentures and the challenges he faced with his dental health. It offers an interesting and relatable glimpse into the life of a historical figure.
9. "I am Abraham Lincoln" by Brad Meltzer
"I am Abraham Lincoln" is part of the popular "Ordinary People Change the World" series by Brad Meltzer. This read aloud presents the life of Abraham Lincoln in a relatable and accessible way for young readers. It highlights Lincoln's determination, honesty, and leadership qualities, inspiring children to make a positive impact in their own lives.
10. "Madam President" by Lane Smith
"Madam President" is a fun and empowering read aloud that imagines a female president's day in the office. Through playful illustrations and witty text, Lane Smith encourages children to dream big and believe in their abilities. This book challenges traditional gender roles and inspires young readers to envision a future where anyone can become president.
11. "Thomas Jefferson Builds a Library" by Barb Rosenstock
"Thomas Jefferson Builds a Library" explores the fascinating story of how Thomas Jefferson's love for books led to the creation of the Library of Congress. This read aloud showcases Jefferson's passion for learning and his contributions to American culture. It also emphasizes the importance of libraries and the value of knowledge.
12. "President Squid" by Aaron Reynolds
"President Squid" is a humorous and imaginative read aloud that follows the ambitious President Squid as he tries to convince the underwater creatures to vote for him. This book uses humor to introduce children to the concept of elections and the qualities that make a good leader. It encourages critical thinking and sparks discussions about leadership.
13. "The President of the Jungle" by André Rodrigues and Larissa Ribeiro
"The President of the Jungle" is a playful read aloud that takes children on a journey through a jungle election. With vibrant illustrations and engaging text, this book introduces young readers to the democratic process and the importance of making informed decisions. It also promotes teamwork, friendship, and respect for others.
14. "President Taft is Stuck in the Bath" by Mac Barnett
"President Taft is Stuck in the Bath" is a hilarious read aloud that presents a fictionalized account of President William Howard Taft's bathtub incident. This book not only provides a humorous look at history but also prompts discussions about problem-solving and resilience. It encourages children to think creatively and find solutions to unexpected challenges.
15. "The Story of Ruby Bridges" by Robert Coles
"The Story of Ruby Bridges" is a powerful read aloud that tells the true story of Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to attend an all-white school in New Orleans. This book explores themes of courage, perseverance, and the fight for equality. It encourages children to stand up against injustice and promotes empathy and understanding.
16. "I am George Washington" by Brad Meltzer
"I am George Washington" is another installment in the "Ordinary People Change the World" series by Brad Meltzer. This read aloud focuses on the life and accomplishments of George Washington, highlighting his integrity, bravery, and dedication to his country. It inspires children to be leaders and make a positive difference in the world.
17. "Woodrow for President" by Peter W. Barnes and Cheryl Shaw Barnes
"Woodrow for President" introduces children to the life and presidency of Woodrow Wilson. This read aloud explores Wilson's leadership during World War I and his efforts to establish the League of Nations. It provides an engaging and educational look at history, diplomacy, and the role of the president in shaping the nation.
18. "My Fellow Americans" by Alice Provensen
"My Fellow Americans" is a comprehensive read aloud that covers all the presidents of the United States. With informative text and detailed illustrations, this book provides an overview of each president's term and their contributions to the nation. It offers a valuable resource for teaching children about the history and diversity of the presidency.
19. "The Presidency" by Robert Schlesinger
"The Presidency" is a nonfiction read aloud that delves into the role of the president in American democracy. This book explores the powers, responsibilities, and challenges faced by the president. With its informative and engaging content, it offers children a deeper understanding of the presidency and its impact on the nation.
20. "If I Were President" by Catherine Stier
"If I Were President" is an imaginative read aloud that encourages children to think about what they would do if they were president. This book prompts discussions about leadership, problem-solving, and the values that guide decision-making. It empowers children to imagine a better world and encourages them to take action in their own lives.
Conclusion
Presidents Day read alouds provide a valuable opportunity to engage children in learning about the presidency and the leaders who have shaped the nation. Whether it's through humorous tales, inspiring biographies, or imaginative stories, these books foster a love for reading and a deeper understanding of American history and democracy. By incorporating these read alouds into your Presidents Day activities, you can spark curiosity, promote critical thinking, and inspire the next generation of leaders.