By Esmeralda of Maricopa County Library District
Picture books about good manners are a wonderful way to teach children how to be kind, respectful, and polite in everyday life. These stories are often fun and engaging, using humor, relatable characters, and familiar situations to help kids understand important social skills. Whether you’re introducing manners to a baby or helping a child navigate a specific challenge, these books provide valuable lessons in a playful and accessible way. Here are some of my favorite books about good manners:
Please, Mr. Panda by Steve Antony
Please, Mr. Panda by Steve Antony is a charming and humorous story that follows a grumpy-looking panda as he offers donuts to a group of animals. Each animal responds in a less than polite way, and Mr. Panda moves on until one animal finally says the magic word.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:
Children will love this book because of its bold, simple illustrations and repetitive text. The story gently teaches young children the importance of using good manners in a fun, engaging, and easy-to-remember way.
Perfectly Polite Penguins by Georgiana Deutsch
Through playful storytelling and bright colorful pictures, this fun story follows a group of cute penguins learning to be polite and kind to each other. The book teaches young children important manners like saying “please” and “thank you”, sharing, and being respectful.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:
The bright, colorful pictures and friendly characters grab kids’ attentions and make the book fun to read. The lively story, combined with gentle humor, helps kids connect with the message. The simple clear lessons teach them how to be polite in everyday situations.
When a Dragon Comes to Stay by Caryl Hart
With catchy rhymes and bright pictures, this book is an easy and fun way for kids to learn about good manners in everyday life. It first shows the wrong way to behave in different situations, then demonstrates the polite and correct way to act instead.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:
Parents and kids will love this book because it makes learning about manners fun and relatable. Kids will enjoy the silly, playful dragon and the bright, color illustrations will keep them entertained. Parents will appreciate how the story gently teaches important lessons about politeness, sharing, and respect without feeling like a lecture.
ABOUT ESMERALDA:
Esmeralda is an Arizona-born librarian who’s passionate about books, community and creating a welcoming space for everyone. She especially loves leading storytimes, where she enjoys bringing stories to life for kids. She also enjoys planning fun, hands-on programs for all ages.
