the best how to books for kids

Teaching children how to think in sequences is essential for both problem-solving and writing development. A great way to introduce this skill is through procedural, or “how-to,” books for kids. These books not only make for excellent read-aloud, but they also model clear, step-by-step writing, helping young learners grasp how to organize and structure instructions. Whether the stories are humorous or serious, books for kids provide an engaging way to teach the fundamentals of procedural thinking and writing.

Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best books for kids that model procedural writing. These mentor texts range from whimsical stories to factual guides, making them perfect for reading anytime—not just during writing lessons!

Why Procedural Writing Matters

Procedural writing involves giving step-by-step instructions in a logical order. By introducing children to this form of writing early, they not only learn how to write clear directions but also how to follow them. This skill is essential across many areas of life, from solving math problems to cooking, crafting, or even coding.

Procedural books are not only informative but can also be full of humor, making learning fun and engaging for young readers. Now, let’s dive into some of the best how-to books that can serve as models for procedural writing.

Silly and Fun Procedural Books

1 How to Wash a Woolly Mammoth by Michelle Robinson
Ever wondered how to bath a woolly mammoth? This hilarious guide takes children on a humorous journey with step-by-step instructions on how to clean a prehistoric pet—if you dare!

2 How to Teach a Slug to Read by Susan Pearson
What if you had to teach a slug to read? This imaginative book breaks down the reading process into simple steps, making it both fun and educational. From labeling items around the house to reading aloud, the book’s instructions are delightfully creative.

3 How to Babysit a Grandpa by Jean Reagan
In this clever role-reversal story, a child offers expert advice on how to babysit a grandpa. From snack-time strategies to keeping quiet, this book’s humorous tone will keep kids giggling while they learn.

4 How to Train a Train by Jason Carter Eaton
For kids who dream of having a pet train, this book provides all the important details they’ll need. Whether it’s learning how to catch a train or coming up with the perfect name, this guide is both charming and informative.

5 How to Make Friends with a Ghost by Rebecca Green
This spooky yet heartwarming story gives practical tips on befriending ghosts. Full of humor and charm, it’s a unique take on how-to storytelling.

6 If Your Monster Won’t Go to Bed by Denise Vega
Is your monster resisting bedtime? This book gives step-by-step instructions for getting even the most stubborn monster to bed, with hilarious results that make it a fun and entertaining read.

Serious and Informative Procedural Books

1 How to Swallow a Pig by Steve Jenkins
This non-fiction how-to book provides fascinating steps on how animals hunt, eat, and survive in the wild. From crocodiles to whales, this book teaches children how different creatures capture their prey using clear, sequential instructions.

2 How to Read a Story by Kate Messner
Perfect for budding readers, this book guides children through the process of reading a story. With steps like “find a cozy spot” and “read with expression,” it’s a wonderful introduction to the joy of reading.

3 Let’s Make Some Great Fingerprint Art by Marion Deuchars
This creative book provides detailed instructions on how to make fun art using fingerprints. With numbered steps and illustrations, it’s an excellent choice for teaching sequential thinking through art projects.