Children’s Books That Celebrate Dads
On the hunt for the best kids’ books about dads? Whether you need a sweet Father’s Day gift, something for a baby shower, or just a new bedtime favorite, these stories are all about the big and little ways dads make life special.
You’ll find everything here, from silly board books to gorgeous picture books, all starring awesome dads, fun adventures, and those everyday moments that matter most. So grab your kiddo, get cozy, and dive into some dad-themed storytime!
Board Books About Dads
Daddy Loves You by Nicola Edwards
Tag along with animal dads and their little ones as they explore, play, and snuggle through the day. The gentle rhymes and sweet pictures make this a perfect bedtime pick for babies and toddlers.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Helen Oxenbury
Join a brave dad and his kids as they stomp through grass, splash in mud, and set off on a bear hunt. The repeating lines are perfect for reading out loud, and this is one of those books little ones will want to hear over and over.
My Dad Is Amazing! (A Hello!Lucky Book)
This one is bursting with color, good vibes, and a whole lot of yeti fun. The pages are packed with silly lines like “cooler than a million popsicles” and the art is super bright and cheerful. It’s just plain fun.
You’re My Little Papa Bear by Nicola Edwards
This rhyming story is all about the special bond between dads and their little cubs. The bear illustrations are super cute, and the gentle words make it just right for snuggling up and reading together.
Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada by Jimmy Fallon
If you’re secretly hoping your baby’s first word is “dada,” this book is a must. The animal pictures are super cute, and the silly sounds always get giggles. It’s perfect for dads who love a little friendly competition.
My Dad Loves Me by Marianne Richmond
This is a sweet, simple story all about the special bond between dads and their kiddos. The words and pictures are full of heart, and it’s a lovely reminder of all the little ways dads show love—cuddles, playtime, and just being together.
Chicka Chicka I Love Dad by Blake Marsden
This is a fun Father’s Day spin on the classic Chicka Chicka Boom Boom! With the same catchy rhythms, bright pictures, and lots of ways to celebrate Dad, it’s sure to be a favorite for little fans of the original.
PICTURE Books About Dads
Dad by Christian Robinson
This joyful picture book is all about what makes dads special, from animal dads to human ones. It’s full of sweet ways dads show love and care, and the simple words make it a great read-aloud for little ones.
Hike by Pete Oswald
There are no words in this book, just pure father-child bonding. The story quietly follows a dad and child as they spend a day hiking, planting trees, and making memories. It’s a real treasure.
Dad by My Side by Soosh
This book is full of gorgeous art and celebrates the special bond between a dad and daughter, from magical adventures to everyday moments. It’s packed with heart and is a sweet reminder that dads are always there when you need them.
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
This story is all about a dad helping his daughter get her hair just right for a big day. It’s a celebration of loving your natural hair and the special bond between dads and daughters.
Made for Me by Zack Bush
Grab some tissues for this one! Told from a new dad’s point of view, this story is all about that huge, overwhelming love parents feel for their little ones. The words and pictures are full of heart, making it a perfect bedtime read.
Tad and Dad by David Ezra Stein
Tad loves hanging out with his dad every day, but as he gets bigger and learns to swim, hop, and croak, their lily pad starts to feel a bit crowded. This sweet and funny story is all about growing up, finding independence, and the special love between a dad and kid.
I Am Perfectly Designed by Karamo Brown
A dad and son spend the day wandering the city, sharing memories and celebrating what makes them special. This joyful story is a sweet reminder to love yourself just as you are and to cherish the people who help you grow.
My Papi Has a Motorcycle by Isabel Quintero
This story is all about the love between a dad and daughter and the lively neighborhood they call home. Daisy Ramona rides through town on her Papi’s motorcycle, noticing how things change, but knowing her family’s love is always there.
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari really wants to jump off the diving board, but he’s feeling a little nervous. With some gentle encouragement from his dad, he finds his courage. This is a great story about bravery, patience, and having someone in your corner.
My Dad by Susan Quinn
He might not be a superhero or a secret agent, but he’s still the best dad ever. Told from a kid’s point of view, this sweet story celebrates the everyday magic of dads, from bath time fun to baking treats together.
How to Catch a Daddysaurus by Alice Walstead
This playful spin-off from the “How to Catch” series has kids trying to catch a dinosaur dad who’s packed with dad jokes and surprises. It’s a silly, high-energy read for Father’s Day or any day.
What We’ll Build by Oliver Jeffers
This beautiful, poetic book follows a dad and daughter as they dream up their future together. What We’ll Build is full of imagination, love, and hope, all shown through whimsical art.
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Great choices! We also love “Daddies do it different” and “When Dads don’t grow up”
Those both look absolutely adorable! I haven’t heard of either of them – thanks for sharing!
Thank you! I wish more of these were board books! My LO crushes pages 😉
I think at least a handful of them are board books! And there’s always Guess How Much I Love You, another favorite of mine! 🙂
Loved this post for my husband’s first father’s day! My daughter often picks them out for him to read her now that she is older. I was hunting for a post about books for Mother’s Day, but it doesn’t seem like you have one yet.