President's Day is an ideal time to teach children about the history of the United States and those men who've held the highest office. No matter which candidate you support or what party you identify with, these picture books will help cast a wide net in discovering the history of the American presidency, as well as inspiring leaders for a new generation.
1. George Washington's Socks
An epic adventure of time travel disguises the history lesson tucked away in this story about our nation's first president. Young readers will get a kick out of the fantasy that feature a group of kids who go on a camp-out and magically end up in colonial America.
2. Lincoln's Last Days
Like its adult counterpart, "Killing Lincoln," this nonfiction book offers kids a look at our 16th President's life, with a focus on his contributions to America and his assassination--plus, how his death changed the course of the country's history.
3. You're On Your Way, Teddy Roosevelt
When President McKinley was assassinated, Vice President Roosevelt was called upon to serve the highest office of our nation at age 42. To this day, he remains the youngest to take office (Kennedy was the youngest elected). The dawn of the 20th century and technological advances marked his presidency--he was the first to ride in a car, own a telephone and fly in an airplane. Author Judith St. George portrays the young Teddy as adventurous, and touches on how his difficulties with asthma helped develop his strong character.
4. First Dog Fala
We all know about Bo, the adorable Obama family pet. But way before his paws roamed the office there was Fala. The Scottish terrier was Franklin Delano Roosevelt's loyal companion (there's even a statue dedicated to Fala at the FDR Memorial in Washington, DC). The pooch serves as narrator in this story that takes the dog on adventures as he lives through World War II alongside his owner.
5. The Brothers Kennedy
There's no denying that the Kennedy family has helped shape American history, particularly in the 1960s. But, there was a time when John, Robert and Edward were just boys with big dreams for the future. Kathleen Krull outlines the youth of these three politicians, with special attention paid to the man who would be President.
6. The President's Stuck in the Bathtub
This anthology includes a poem for every president through Barack Obama. And yes, the title comes from one about President Taft. The silly rhymes are full of facts that kids won't soon forget.
7. First Mothers
We would be remiss not to include this book, which tells the story of the women behind the men--the mothers of each president. Full of tidbits that you may not have known (Lincoln's mother was a wrestler? What?!), this book is great to read piecemeal before bedtime, as each First Mother has her own unique story to share.
