The flowers are blooming, the days are longer, and that means, despite the rain, Spring is here! For many, that also means it’s time to do some spring cleaning. But don’t stress about organizing and straightening all the chaos our kids make. Messiness can actually be a good thing - stimulating curiosity, creativity, experimentation, and exploration. Studies have shown that a little clutter can actually make us think outside the box. So, this spring, let’s do some cleaning to make room for new growth and new ideas, but also celebrate the messes that will foster new ideas and cognitive development. Here are some books to get kids excited about washing up and cleaning up, and some enthusiastically messy books that teach colors, counting, and rhymes, proving that not all messes are bad.
Pete the Cat by James Dean
Follow a groovy cat as his shoes go from pristine white to not-so white and learn different colors along the way.
A Perfect Mess by Steve Breen
A messy rhino tries to stay clean, but the world wants mess. See the results of his efforts.
Rhyming Dust Bunnies by Jan Thomas
Put away your brooms for awhile and teach your young readers how to rhyme with these funny, clever balls of dust.
The Day the Crayons Came Home by Drew Daywalt
Hear from a group of lost crayons writing to their neglectful, messy owner, who wish for nothing more than to be reunited.
Dog's Colorful Day by Emma Dodd
Learn your colors and practice counting as a joyful dog becomes sticky and dirty throughout the day.
I Ain't Gonna Paint No More! by Karen Beaumont
Follow this rhythmic story of a child who can’t get enough of paint.
