Spring is a season of fresh air, blooming flowers, and new beginnings — the perfect time to bring storytime outside! As the weather warms and children are eager to explore the world around them, reading books outdoors offers a wonderful way to blend early literacy with nature, movement, and sensory play.
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or working in a daycare or childcare setting, taking books outside can refresh your routine and spark even more excitement for reading. Here’s why it works — and which books are perfect for springtime reading.
Why Read Outdoors?
- New Environment, New Energy: Changing up your reading spot can reignite interest and curiosity. Children love novelty, and reading under a tree, on a blanket in the grass, or even on a playground bench turns storytime into an adventure.
- Supports Whole-Child Development: Outdoor reading combines early literacy with sensory experiences — the sound of birds, the feeling of a breeze, the scent of blooming flowers. These multi-sensory moments help children connect words with the world around them, deepening their understanding and engagement.
- Encourages Calm and Focus: The natural environment has a soothing effect on young children. Reading outdoors can help toddlers and preschoolers settle their energy and listen more attentively. It’s also a peaceful way to wind down after active outdoor play.
Springtime Book List for Outdoor Storytime
Looking for the perfect books to enjoy in the sunshine? These titles celebrate nature, growth, and seasonal change — and are just right for young children in daycare or at home.
Infants and Toddlers (0–2 years):
- Little Blue Truck’s Springtime by Alice Schertle – A lift-the-flap book full of baby animals and spring cheer.
- Spring is Here by Will Hillenbrand – Gentle storytelling about the change of seasons.
- Raindrop, Plop! by Wendy Cheyette Lewison – A simple counting story full of spring rain fun.
- Baby Loves Spring! by Karen Katz – Bright flaps and engaging illustrations for curious little ones.
Preschoolers (2–4 years):
- And Then It’s Spring by Julie Fogliano – A beautifully poetic story about patience and change.
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle – Perfect for spring, with themes of growth and transformation.
- Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert – A colorful exploration of planting and watching things grow.
- Mouse’s First Spring by Lauren Thompson – A joyful story of discovery in nature.
Books to Pair with Outdoor Activities:
- From Head to Toe by Eric Carle – Encourage movement while reading and mimic animal motions outside.
- In the Tall, Tall Grass by Denise Fleming – A vibrant book to read before a nature walk.
- We’re Going on a Nature Hunt by Steve Metzger – Inspired by We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, this story invites children to explore the natural world.
Tips for Outdoor Storytime Success
- Choose a comfy spot: A blanket, a picnic table, or a shady spot under a tree works well.
- Pack light: Bring just a few favorite books in a tote or backpack.
- Involve the senses: Let children touch leaves or flowers that relate to the story, or listen for birds while reading.
- Follow their lead: If children become curious about something they see outdoors, use it as a teachable moment — books and real-world experiences go hand in hand.
Spring is a wonderful season for growth — in nature and in young minds. Children whose parents read to them regularly are exposed to 1.4 million more words by kindergarten compared to those who are not. Studies show these children often develop stronger language, literacy, and cognitive skills, leading to better academic performance.
By combining the joy of books with the beauty of the outdoors, parents and caregivers can nurture a love of reading that will bloom all year long. So grab a few books, head outside, and watch stories come to life under the open sky.