Father’s Day is just around the corner! It’s the perfect time to celebrate the everyday heroes who give piggyback rides, fix broken toys, tell the best bedtime stories, and make us laugh until our bellies hurt with Father’s Day picture books. Whether you’re a teacher planning sweet storytime moments or a parent snuggling up for a summer evening read, these delightful father’s day picture books are bursting with love, laughs, and unforgettable dad vibes.
We’ve rounded up five fabulous, feel-good Father’s Day picture books—plus fun activity ideas to bring each story to life, whether you’re reading in a classroom or curled up on the couch at home. Let’s turn the page and celebrate the magic of dads and the love that makes every day feel like an adventure!
1. “My Dad Is a Tree” by Jon Agee
📖 What It’s About:
When a little girl asks her dad to be a tree, he goes all in! From standing still to being the best climbing post, this playful story celebrates dads who aren’t afraid to be silly.
Try This:
Classroom: Have kids draw what their dad (or father figure) would be if he were something silly—a tree, a superhero, a hot dog?
At Home: Do a family “pretend play challenge.” Let your child pick what you’ll pretend to be (tree optional!).
2. “Some Daddies” by Carol Gordon Ekster
📖 What It’s About:
This colorful book showcases dads of all kinds—some cook, some dance, some build, some snuggle. It’s an inclusive celebration of fatherhood in its many forms.
Try This:
Classroom: Create a “Dads Are Different” chart or class mural showing all the cool things dads do.
At Home: Talk about what makes your child’s dad (or special adult) unique. Make a drawing or short video together celebrating that!
3. “Because I’m Your Dad” by Ahmet Zappa
📖 What It’s About:
A monster dad shares all the fun, wild, loving things he’ll do—like tickle fights and spaghetti for breakfast. Pure joy and silliness with a whole lot of heart!
Try This:
Classroom: Kids can write or dictate their own version of “Because You’re My Dad…” to create a class book.
At Home: Fill in the blank together: “Because you’re my kid, I will…” Bonus points for outrageous promises like “build a castle out of pillows!”
4. “Daddy Dressed Me” by Michael and Ava Gardner
📖 What It’s About:
Based on a real dad-daughter duo, this story follows Ava as she prepares for a big day—with help from her fashion-loving father. A beautiful tribute to confidence and creativity!
Try This:
Classroom: Set up a fashion design center where kids create an outfit for a special day using fabric scraps or colored paper.
At Home: Have a “fashion show” where your child designs and models a special outfit—bonus fun if a dad or adult helps out!
5. “A Day with Dad” by Bo Rutter
📖 What It’s About:
A touching, gentle story about a child spending time with his dad, who lives far away. It’s a thoughtful, warm-hearted read for all family types.
Try This:
Classroom: Use this book to start a discussion about different types of families. Invite students to draw or write about a “special day” with someone they love.
At Home: Plan your own special day—even if it’s simple! A picnic in the living room, a walk around the block, or a game night can be just as magical.
You can grab all of these books right here!
💡 Bonus Tip – Summer Style!
Turn Father’s Day reading into a family memory-maker! After enjoying one of these books, try making a Father’s Day Memory Jar at home. Have each family member write down a favorite moment or funny story with dad (or another special grown-up). Decorate the jar together and read the memories out loud on Father’s Day morning. It’s a keepsake and a conversation-starter all in one!
Books have the power to connect us, celebrate love, and spark creativity—whether in a classroom circle or curled up on the couch. However you read these Father’s Day favorites, know you’re creating space for joy, appreciation, and lots of smiles.
Keep the Reading Magic Going!
Looking for more end-of-year read-aloud gems? Don’t miss my ultimate list of favorites! And if you want to make storytime extra special, check out my top tips for bringing picture books to life. Your read-aloud game is about to sparkle!
