Story time with Dad: best books for bonding & development
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam Mcbratney
(£4, Amazon)
This is is a heartwarming tale that beautifully captures the bond between a parent (or other adult family member) and a child. Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare try to express just how much they love each other, discovering that love is something so immense it's hard to measure.
Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Waterson
(11.99, Amazon)
This is a fun comic-strip read (best for children 9 and over) that will have both parent and child in stitches. It's been around since 1985 and follows the adventures of a boy and his tiger companion. This is a great read that is often accessible and appealing for SEN children and parents who enjoy image-based stories.
The Best Dad in the World by Melanie Joyce
(£5.99, Amazon)
Little Gorilla is convinced his dad is the best in the entire world – despite his questionable fashion choices, lack of repair skills, and embarrassing dance moves! This story is good fun and a delightful reminder of the special bond between fathers and their children.
Danny, the Champion of the World by Roald Dahl
(£11.25, Amazon)
This book is a great choice for reading with Dad because it celebrates the unique and loving relationship between a father and his son. It emphasises the joy of shared adventures and the importance of supporting one another, making it a heartfelt and entertaining read that honors the spirit of fatherhood.
Love You Forever by Robert Munsch
Although typically read to younger children, the themes of parental love and the life-long bond between parent and child make it a poignant read for older kids as well. This is a lovely read, particularly for those being raised by their mum or another female figure, but it is easily applicable to fathers as well.
The Gruffalo's Child by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler
(£6.99, Amazon)
This story centres around the relationship between the Gruffalo and his curious child. It emphasises themes of trust, protection, and familial love. Many parents will be able to relate to the Gruffalo's protective nature and the child's adventurous spirit.
Dad By My Side by Soosh
(£14.60, Amazon)
This beautiful story is written like a dedication to all of those incredible dads. It will remind you of that single dad you know that goes above and beyond, even when they're not able to physically be at home. The illustrations are wonderful and the sentiment is very heartwarming!
We Love Daddy-O-Saurus – Personalised story book
(£29.99, Wonderbly)
This is a delightful personalised storybook that makes a perfect Dad-and-child read, capturing the whimsical world of dinosaurs and the bond between father and child. It's an ideal read for dino-loving families, turning bedtime into a memorable prehistoric escapade.
Dad Jokes by Jim Chumley
(£6.17, Amazon)
Forget story books for a second and consider a book you can use every day – the book of Dad jokes. Read a couple of jokes a day to your child and they will be in stitches (or rolling their eyes!). Sure, it may be a little cliché to suggest that all dads tell bad jokes, but most of us know someone who fits the bill!
My Daddies! By Gareth Peter
(£7.35, Amazon)
This is a sweet and colourful story that celebrates the dynamics of less conventional family structures – and one little girl's joyful experience of being raised by two dads. The text has a lively, up-beat rhythm and is a good read for younger children.
Grandad's Island by Benji Davies
(£5.59, Amazon)
As Syd visits his Grandad's house, he embarks on a poignant journey to a magical island where Grandad decides to stay. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt storytelling, the book captures the beauty of memories and the importance of cherishing the time spent with loved ones.
Adventure Time by Daniel Corsetto
(£41.39, Amazon)
This includes the entire volume one collection and is a great, ongoing story for Dad and child to get fully immersed in. It's a quirky, crazy adventure comic that's best for children 8 years and up.
Dealing with loss: Kids' books about bereavement
It's important to recognise that some families have experienced the loss of a father-figure, so we put together some beautiful children's books about loss and love that will, hopefully, help your child during a difficult time.
For other helpful suggestions on how to cope with grief, check out Twinkl's wonderful list of thoughtful activities.
If you're looking professional help and support for your young one, Winston's Wish is a charity that offers help for children and teenagers who are grieving.
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
(£7.99, Amazon)
Although not directly about losing a father-figure, this book beautifully explains how love connects us (like an invisible string), no matter what happens, and that you are always connected to your family and friends. It's a gentle explanation of how to cope with love and loss.
When I'm Gone by Marguerite Mclaren
(£7.35, Amazon)
When a loved one passes away, you'll experience days of sadness and anger, but also moments of happiness and joy. This tender and poignant picture book assists children in grieving, celebrating, and discovering how to live and cherish life after losing a parent.
Rabbityness by Jo Empson
(£7.35, Amazon)
Rabbit enjoys doing typical rabbit activities, but he also has a passion for things that aren't so rabbity! This captivating debut picture book by author/illustrator Jo Empson celebrates individuality, encourages creativity in everyone, and gently introduces children to coping with loss.
Please note that some of the products included in this article feature affiliate links; this means that if you click through and purchase one of the featured products, we might earn a small commission. The price you pay is unaffected by these links and our choice of products to review is in no way influenced by our membership of associates programmes.
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