Reading books about New Year's in the classroom holds special significance as it allows children to explore and understand the cultural and global diversity of how people welcome the arrival of a new year. These stories not only capture the excitement and traditions associated with New Year celebrations but also provide valuable opportunities for learning about different customs and practices around the world. Read-alouds play a crucial role in this exploration by creating a shared experience within the classroom. As teachers or peers read stories aloud, students not only develop their listening skills but also engage in discussions, ask questions, and share their own experiences and traditions related to New Year celebrations. The communal nature of read-alouds fosters a sense of connection and understanding among students, promoting empathy, cultural awareness, and a broader perspective on the ways people mark the passage of time. Additionally, the act of reading together promotes a love for literature, language development, and the joy of learning, making read-alouds a valuable and enjoyable part of the classroom experience during the New Year season. Books for your class for New Years. Read alouds to celebrate New Years. Kids books about New Years.
Just a heads up, The Structured Stone may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.
"Bringing in the New Year" by Grace Lin This vibrant and beautifully illustrated book takes readers on a journey to discover how different Asian cultures celebrate the Lunar New Year. Follow a Chinese-American family as they prepare for and participate in the festivities.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Bringing in the New Year
"Shante Keys and the New Year's Peas" by Gail Piernas-Davenport In this lively and culturally rich book, Shante Keys learns about a Southern tradition that involves eating black-eyed peas on New Year's Day for good luck. The story celebrates diversity and the importance of family traditions.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Shante Keys and the New Year's Peas
"Squirrel's New Year's Resolution" by Pat Miller Join Squirrel as he learns about the concept of New Year's resolutions and sets out to discover the perfect one for himself. This charming story introduces the idea of setting goals and making positive changes.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Squirrels New Years Resolution
"New Year at the Pier: A Rosh Hashanah Story" by April Halprin Wayland This picture book explores the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, as Izzy struggles with the tradition of Tashlich, symbolizing casting away one's mistakes into the water. The story teaches the importance of forgiveness and starting anew.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: New Year at the Pier: A Rosh Hashanah Story
"Happy New Year, Spot!" by Eric Hill Join Spot, the lovable puppy, as he celebrates the New Year with his friends. This interactive lift-the-flap book is perfect for young readers and introduces them to the excitement of counting down to midnight.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Happy New Year, Spot!
Come join Ping and Cherry Blossom as they discover the Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations together. Whom will they discover in the New Year's Day Parade? How will they celebrate this special holiday?
A very cute and simple story for babies, toddlers, and early elementary-grade children.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Chinese New Years
For this multicultural family, inspired by the author’s own, two New Years mean twice as much to celebrate! In the fall, Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, offers an opportunity to bake challah, dip apples in honey, and lift voices in song.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Two New Years
"Sosu's Call" by Meshack Asare Set in Ghana, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of Sosu, a boy with a physical disability, who plays a crucial role in alerting his village to an impending disaster. The narrative emphasizes the value of every individual's contributions and the spirit of unity during the New Year celebration.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Sosu's Call
"The Night Before New Year's" by Natasha Wing In the style of Clement C. Moore's classic poem, this book follows a family as they prepare for New Year's Eve. The rhyming text captures the excitement and anticipation leading up to the big night.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: The Night Before New Year's
"Sam and the Lucky Money" by Karen Chinn In this touching story set during the Chinese New Year, Sam receives the traditional gift of lucky money. As he encounters various people in his community, he learns about the importance of giving and sharing during the holiday season.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Sam and the Lucky Money
These diverse and engaging books provide children with a variety of perspectives on New Year celebrations, fostering an appreciation for different cultures and traditions while instilling the joy and hope that come with the start of a new year.