It is crucial, especially with everything going on in the world these days, to teach kids about kindness, empathy, and consideration for others. The Best Life Lessons from Children’s Books will inspire you to journey back to the tales of childhood when things were a little simpler (tree houses and tea parties, those were the days).

Here are The Best Life Lessons from Children’s Books that will bring a little bit of that playground magic back:

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst: We all have days that aren’t amazing (because ADULTING) but put a smile on your face, throw on your favorite jams, and make the best of it. It will get better.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein: The classic about a tree who loved a little boy down to her stump and would do absolutely anything for him. A little reminder that it is better to give than receive, so why not make someone’s day with a surprise “happy”? Teach kids about the little things like helping a sibling, giving a compliment, an unexpected hug, a smile, volunteering, whatever the case may be.

Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees: Sometimes you have to find the music that makes you want to shake it (find your own dance and your own path).

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss: Oh, the rhymes of Dr. Seuss. Such a poet. Sometimes you don’t know if you will like something until you try it! (Though really, A for Effort on green food outside of St. Patrick’s Day.)

Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle: Take the time to say a friendly “beep” to everyone you come across, be it human or animal. You just may make their day and your kindness will surely be returned.

The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper: Have confidence in your ability, and give it the old college try no matter how small you are (or how small you feel). Also, always help others in need. Just. Be. Nice. Kindness goes a long way.

Peanut Butter & Cupcake by Terry Border: There’s a perfect match out there for all us, whether it is a furry friend, a life partner or spouse, or a human friend. Keep trying until you find someone who is the vodka to your club soda (oops, forgot we were talking about children’s books here). And maybe we’re reading too much into it, but we think it’s encouraging cupcake consumption. We’re in.

The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown: One of the read-along books to Goodnight Moon. Essentially, your mother will morph herself into anything in order to be with you if you try to run away. Just call your mom, you will both feel better.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle: You never know when someone or something will blossom into a new and lovely creature. Also, be a foodie. It worked out for this little green guy.

Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne: Carpe Diem (Seize the Day): “You can’t always sit in your corner of the forest and wait for people to come to you… you have to go to them sometimes.” Make the extra effort, take the chance, be proactive and be a good friend.

What are The Best Life Lessons from Children’s Books you have read?