Books

We Feature Children’s Books Aligned with the Australian Curriculum

Browse our collection of thoughtfully selected children’s books that align with the Australian Curriculum across key learning areas: Science, Mathematics, Design and Technologies, English (Literacy and Literature), Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS), and Health and Physical Education. These books are perfect for junior primary students in Foundation (age 5), Year 1 (age 6), and Year 2 (age 7).

Explore a wide range of engaging topics, from the natural world and problem-solving to social understanding and emotional wellbeing. Each book supports deeper classroom discussion and helps bring curriculum content to life through stories that children love.

Ideal for educators, librarians and parents looking for curriculum-aligned picture books that inspire learning and curiosity.

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Written & illustrated by Steven Huynh
Published by Steven De GC
Theme/topic: Basic needs, Health and Physical Education, and Sustainability

Suggested learning area: ACPPS006 ( – Foundation) ACPPS022 ( – Year 1,Year 2) ACSSU002 (Science – Foundation) ACSSU019 (Science – Year 1)

The narrative encourages students to take only what is needed (ACPPS006, ACPPS022 – Foundation to Year 2 Health and Physical Education), reinforcing fairness in sharing resources like classroom materials. It also explores the negative consequences of overuse by addressing the basic needs of animals—food, water, and shelter (ACSSU002 – Foundation Year Science) —demonstrating how overuse impacts wildlife and habitats. Highlighting environmental changes caused by resource depletion (ACSSU019 – Year 1 Science), fostering the awareness of sustainability. With its rich themes of sharing and environmental stewardship, this story inspires young learners to adopt mindful, responsible habits in their daily lives.

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Written by Katrina Germein
Illustrated by Bronwyn Bancroft
Published by Picture Puffin
Theme/topic: Mathematics and Weather impacts

Suggested learning area: AC9MFM02 (Mathematics – Foundation) AC9S1U02 (Science – Year 1) ACMMG007 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACSSU004 (Science – Foundation)

Big Rain Coming by Katrina Germein is a beautifully written and atmospheric story that captures the anticipation of rainfall in a remote Australian Indigenous community. Throughout the week, the land remains dry, and the people wait patiently for the relief that the rain will bring. The book helps students explore observable weather changes and how they impact the environment and daily life (ACSSU004 – Foundation Year; AC9S1U02 – Year 1, Science). It also help kids compare and recognise the extensive knowledges of daily and seasonal changes in weather patterns and landscape held by First Nations Australians.

The timely, predictable text encourages children to recognise and describe the sequence of the days of the week, supporting their understanding of time (ACMMG007, AC9MFM02 – Foundation Year, Mathematics). With its rich language and evocative illustrations, Big Rain Coming fosters curiosity about weather patterns and seasonal changes while promoting discussions about patience, resilience, and connection to the land.

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Written by Jo Witek
Illustrated by Christine Roussey
Published by Abrams Appleseed
Theme/topic: Health and Physical Education

Suggested learning area: AC9HPFP03 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation) ACPPS005 ( – Foundation)

In My Heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek is a beautifully illustrated story that explores a wide range of emotions in a way that is accessible to young children. The book follows a young girl as she describes how different feelings manifest in her heart—whether it flutters with happiness, feels heavy with sadness, or pounds with excitement.

Through expressive language and vivid imagery, the book helps children recognise, name, and understand their emotions, supporting their ability to describe how their body reacts to different feelings and situations (AC9HPFP03, ACPPS005 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education). The engaging die-cut heart illustrations add a tactile element, reinforcing the idea that emotions come in many forms and are a natural part of life. In My Heart is a valuable resource for fostering emotional literacy, encouraging self-awareness, and promoting discussions about feelings in a comforting and relatable way.

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Written by Sandhya Parappukkaran
Illustrated by Michelle Pereira
Published by Bright Light
Theme/topic: Action words, Health and Physical Education, and Narrative

Suggested learning area: AC9HP2P01 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) AC9HP2P02 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) AC9HP2P03 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2)

Stay for Dinner by Sandhya Parappukkaran is a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and the connections made through shared meals. The story centres on a family preparing a special dinner for their child’s friends, offering a glimpse into various mealtime customs and table manners (AC9HP2P01 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education). Through the lens of this dinner, the book explores the emotional responses and questions that arise from cultural traditions (AC9HP2P03 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education), encouraging children to embrace diversity and appreciate the richness of different cultural backgrounds (AC9HP2P02 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education).

The narrative is brought to life with vivid sound and imagery words such as “squish,” “splash,” “slice,” and “prong,” capturing the sensory experience of the meal. Culinary terms like “papadum,” “sadhya,” and “dumpling” add authenticity and depth, inviting readers into the world of diverse cuisines. As the main character reflects on her and her friends’ mealtime experiences, the story underscores the importance of understanding and respecting different customs, fostering a sense of togetherness and mutual respect.

With its rich illustrations and heartwarming themes, Stay for Dinner inspires children to find joy in sharing meals and traditions, highlighting the value of friendship and cultural appreciation.

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Written & illustrated by Steven Huynh
Published by Steven De GC
Theme/topic: Health and Physical Education and Humanities and Social Sciences

Suggested learning area: ACHASSK012 (Humanities and Social Sciences – Foundation) ACHASSK013 (Humanities and Social Sciences – Foundation) ACHASSK045 (Humanities and Social Sciences – Year 2) ACPPS001 ( – Foundation) ACPPS015 ( – Year 1,Year 2) ACPPS020 ( – Year 1,Year 2)

The story weaves themes of courage, kindness, and resilience with an appreciation for Australia’s history. Noah, a lovable and compassionate dog, dreams of becoming a hero like his owner’s grandfather, an Anzac veteran. Inspired by stories shared through photos of Grandpa (ACHASSK013 – Foundation Year, Humanities and Social Sciences), Noah finds daily motivation to use his strength—kindness—to help others (ACPPS001, ACPPS015 – Foundation to Year 2, Health and Physical Education).

The story also touches on the importance of commemorating past events, such as Anzac Day, that hold deep meaning for communities (ACHASSK012 – Foundation Year, Humanities and Social Sciences) and highlights a historical site dedicated to honouring Anzac soldiers (ACHASSK045 – Year 2, Humanities and Social Sciences). Through vibrant illustrations and an engaging narrative, Noah: The Dog of the Anzac Spirit inspires young readers to embody the Anzac values of perseverance and resilience (ACPPS020 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education), while fostering a connection to Australia’s rich cultural heritage.

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Written by Jane Godwin
Illustrated by Meg Rennie
Published by Little Hare Books
Theme/topic: Colaborating, Evaluating (design), Friendship, Narrative, Persistence, Producing, Rhyme, and Teamwork

Suggested learning area: AC9HP2P01 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) AC9HP2P03 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) AC9TDE2P01 (Design and Technologies – Year 1,Year 2) AC9TDE2P02 (Design and Technologies – Year 1,Year 2) AC9TDE2P03 (Design and Technologies – Year 1,Year 2) AC9TDE2P04 (Design and Technologies – Year 1,Year 2)

This inspiring picture book celebrates teamwork, creativity, and determination. As a group of children come together to build a boat for their picnic on an island, the story naturally lends itself to discussions about the purpose of a boat in general and context of the text (AC9TDE2K01 – Years 1 and 2, Design and Technologies). The story also highlights the importance of preparation before they begin (AC9TDE2P01 – Years 1 and 2, Design and Technologies), innovation and problem-solving when they face the challenge at sea (AC9TDE2P03 – Years 1 and 2, Design and Technologies).

Throughout their journey, they experience challenges and moments of joy, allowing students to reflect on how they manage emotions in different situations (AC9HP2P03 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education). The story also supports children in understanding how teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving help them to achieve shared goals (AC9HP2P01 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education).

Let’s Build a Boat is a perfect launchpad for hands-on STEM or creative projects, as well as social-emotional learning discussions around collaboration, effort, and celebrating differences.

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Written by April Pulley Sayre and Jeffrey Sayre
Illustrated by Randy Cecil
Published by Walker Books
Theme/topic: Mathematics

Suggested learning area: AC9MFN01 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACMNA001 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACMNA002 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACMNA031 (Mathematics – Year 2)

This delightful and imaginative book introduces young readers to counting (ACMNA001, AC9MFN01 – Foundation Year, Mathematics) and basic multiplication concepts. By using the number of feet on various animals, the story encourages children to explore basic counting with feet (ACMNA002 – Foundation Year, Mathematics) and repeated addition, grouping, and arrays to represent numbers. This creative approach not only reinforces counting skills but also provides a playful foundation for understanding multiplication (ACMNA031 – Year 2, Mathematics). Additionally, the book supports early number recognition and sequencing as children practice counting and comparing quantities. With its vibrant illustrations and humorous scenarios, this book engages young learners while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills in an enjoyable way.

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Written & illustrated by Jan Berenstain and Stan Berenstain
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers
Theme/topic: Mathematics

Suggested learning area: AC9MFN01 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACMNA001 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACMNA002 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACMNA003 (Mathematics – Foundation)

This lively and engaging story introduces young readers to basic counting from 1 to 10 (ACMNA001, AC9MFN01 – Foundation Year, Mathematics). The simple yet entertaining narrative follows bears as they ride on wheels in various configurations, showcasing relationships between numbers and objects (ACMNA002 – Foundation Year, Mathematics). Through its use of repetitive patterns and clear visual representations, the book helps children practise subitising small collections (ACMNA003 – Foundation Year, Mathematics). With its playful illustrations and rhythmic text, Bears on Wheels is an excellent resource for building early numeracy skills in an enjoyable and interactive way.

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Written by Mike Brownlow
Illustrated by Simon Rickerty
Published by Orchard Books
Theme/topic: Mathematics

Suggested learning area: AC9MFN01 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACELA1439 (English Language and Literacy – Foundation) ACMNA001 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACMNA002 (Mathematics – Foundation)

This delightful rhyming adventure captivates young readers with its playful text and vibrant illustrations. The story counts down from 10 to 1 as a group of mischievous little dinosaurs encounters various adventures and challenges, blending humour with basic counting skills (ACMNA001, AC9MFN01 – Foundation Year, Mathematics). It connects number names, numerals, and the number of dinosaurs (ACMNA002 – Foundation Year, Mathematics), making it a valuable tool for early numeracy. The rhymes and repetitive patterns not only entertain but also foster language development and phonemic awareness (ACELA1439 – Foundation Year, English). With its engaging narrative and educational focus, Ten Little Dinosaurs is a perfect read-aloud choice for young children, combining fun and learning in one enjoyable package.

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Written & illustrated by Bronwyn Bancroft
Published by Little Hare Books
Theme/topic: Culture, First Nations Culture, Shapes, and Visual Arts

Suggested learning area: AC9AVAFD01 (Visual Arts – Foundation) AC9MFSP01 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACAVAM106 (Visual Arts – Foundation,Year 1,Year 2) ACMMG009 (Mathematics – Foundation)

The book is an artistic exploration of Australia’s diverse landscapes through the lens of geometric shapes. The book introduces young readers to the natural world by identifying and describing various shapes found in the environment, such as circles in the treetops, triangles in the mountains, and spirals in shells. This aligns with the learning objective AC9MFSP01, ACMMG006 (Mathematics, Foundation Year), which focuses on identifying and describing familiar two-dimensional shapes in the environment. Additionally, the book supports AC9AVAFD01, ACAVAM106 (Visual Arts, Foundation Year) by encouraging young readers to explore how visual arts express ideas about the world. Through Bancroft’s detailed and culturally rich illustrations, children learn to interpret and appreciate the unique beauty of Country through the use of shapes and patterns in visual storytelling. This beautifully illustrated book not only enhances children’s geometric understanding but also deepens their appreciation for the visual arts, making it a valuable resource for integrated learning in mathematics and art.

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Written & illustrated by Kat Macleod
Published by Thames & Hudson
Theme/topic: Shapes

Suggested learning area: AC9MFSP01 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACMMG009 (Mathematics – Foundation)

This vibrant and engaging book introduces young readers to the concept of shapes in a fun and playful setting. Through its dynamic illustrations, children explore a variety of shapes—such as circles, triangles, and squares—while following the excitement of a party scene. The book aligns with AC9MFSP01 (Foundation Year, Mathematics), which focuses on identifying and describe familiar two-dimensional shapes within objects in the environment. As children engage with the visuals, they develop geometric awareness and recognition skills in an enjoyable and meaningful context. With its bold artwork and interactive storytelling, Shapes at the Party fosters curiosity and learning through real-world applications of geometry, making it a valuable resource for early mathematical exploration.

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Written & illustrated by Lucy Cousins
Published by Walker Books
Theme/topic: Rhyme and Shapes

Suggested learning area: AC9EFLY09 (English Language and Literacy – Foundation) AC9MFSP01 (Mathematics – Foundation) ACELA1439 (English Language and Literacy – Foundation) ACMMG009 (Mathematics – Foundation)

Shapes with Little Fish is a bright and engaging picture book that introduces young children to basic shapes through playful underwater adventures. The book helps early learners name, describe and trace shapes (AC9MFSP01, ACMMG009 – Foundation Year, Mathematics) through simple, rhythmic text (AC9EFLY09, ACELA1439 – Foundation Year, English), which also supports reading while fostering early geometric awareness. In addition, the cheerful character of Little Fish guides readers through a lively exploration of shape recognition in an accessible and interactive way.

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Written & illustrated by Anna Llenas
Published by Templar
Theme/topic: Emotional regulation and Emotions

Suggested learning area: AC9HPFP03 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation)

This delightful picture book helps young children understand and identify their emotions. The story follows a confused monster whose feelings are all mixed up, leading a young girl to guide him in sorting and recognising each emotion by associating them with specific colours.

Through vibrant illustrations and engaging narrative, the book encourages children to explore their own feelings and develop emotional awareness. It supports children’s ability to recognise and describe how their body reacts to different emotions and situations (AC9HPFP03 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education).

The Colour Monster is an excellent resource for parents and educators to initiate conversations about emotions and support children’s social and emotional development.

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Written by Lisa Mantchev
Illustrated by Taeeun Yoo
Published by Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books
Theme/topic: Friendship, Inclusion, and Persistence

Suggested learning area: AC9HPFP02 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation)

This heartwarming book talks about friendship, inclusion, and embracing differences. The book follows a young boy and his tiny pet elephant as they excitedly approach a pet club meeting, only to be turned away by a sign that reads “Strictly No Elephants.” Undeterred, the boy and his elephant set out to create their own inclusive club, welcoming all kinds of pets and friends.

This uplifting story encourages children to practise personal and social skills to interact respectfully with others (AC9HPFP02 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education). Through the experiences of the main character and his elephant, young readers can identify characters who have been excluded, explore the reasons behind their exclusion, and discuss how others could have acted more inclusively. The book’s gentle message, paired with its expressive illustrations, reinforces the value of belonging and the power of creating welcoming spaces for everyone. Strictly No Elephants is an inspiring read that fosters empathy, emotional intelligence, and social awareness in young readers.

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Written & illustrated by Mo Willems
Published by Hyperion Books for Children
Theme/topic: Friendship, Inclusion, and Persistence

Suggested learning area: AC9HPFP02 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation)

Can I Play Too? by Mo Willems is a heartwarming and humorous story about friendship, inclusion, and problem-solving. When a new friend, Snake, wants to join Elephant and Piggie’s game of catch, the duo faces a challenge—how can someone without arms play? Through their creativity and determination, the friends work together to find a way for everyone to be included.

This engaging story provides an opportunity for children to practise personal and social skills to interact respectfully with others (AC9HPFP02 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education). Teachers and students can explore how characters experience exclusion, discuss why it happens, and consider ways to make activities more inclusive. With its simple yet expressive illustrations and playful dialogue, Can I Play Too? fosters inclusion, empathy, problem-solving, and cooperation, making it a valuable resource for early childhood social-emotional learning.

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Written by Trudy Ludwig
Illustrated by Patrice Barton
Published by Rhus Children’s Books
Theme/topic: Friendship and Inclusion

Suggested learning area: AC9HPFP02 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation)

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is a touching story that highlights the importance of kindness, inclusion, and empathy. Brian, a quiet and overlooked boy, often feels invisible among his classmates—until a new student, Justin, arrives and helps him find his voice. Through expressive illustrations and a heartfelt narrative, the story encourages children to recognise the impact of their actions and words in making others feel valued.

This book provides an opportunity for children to practise personal and social skills to interact respectfully with others (AC9HPFP02 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education). By identifying characters who have been excluded, exploring the reasons behind their exclusion, and discussing how others could have been more inclusive, The Invisible Boy fosters discussions on empathy and belonging. A powerful resource for developing emotional intelligence, this story encourages young readers to build inclusive and compassionate relationships.

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Written by Anna Milbourne
Illustrated by Sarah Gill
Published by Usborne Picture Books
Theme/topic: Weather impacts

Suggested learning area: AC9S1U02 (Science – Year 1) ACSSU004 (Science – Foundation)

The book explores weather patterns and the daily changes in the environment during a rainy day. As the characters observe the sky darkening, raindrops falling, and puddles forming, students are encouraged to describe daily changes in the environment and explore how these changes affect everyday life (ACSSU004 – Foundation Year; AC9S1U02 – Year 1, Science).

Teachers can explore these suggested learning points with children: investigating how changes in the weather affect plants and animals, including humans; exploring how people make clothing choices using predictions of weather; and investigating how rain or clouds are formed.

With engaging language and vivid imagery, The Rainy Day supports early scientific thinking by prompting discussions about the water cycle, seasonal changes, and the role of rain in nature. This book is an excellent resource for developing curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.

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Written & illustrated by Eric Carle
Published by World of Eric Carle
Theme/topic: Weather changes

Suggested learning area: AC9S1U02 (Science – Year 1) ACSSU004 (Science – Foundation)

Little Cloud by Eric Carle is a beautifully illustrated story that follows a small cloud as it drifts across the sky, changing into different shapes before joining other clouds to bring rain. The book encourages young readers to observe and explore daily changes in weather patterns through clouds and understand clouds are part of the water cycle (ACSSU004 – Foundation Year, Science; AC9S1U02 – Year 1, Science).

Through Carle’s signature collage-style illustrations and simple yet engaging text, Little Cloud inspires children to use their imagination while learning about the natural world. The book also provides opportunities for discussions about how clouds form, change, and contribute to the environment, making it a wonderful resource for early science learning.

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Written by Jana Hunter
Illustrated by Sue Porter
Published by Mondo Pub
Theme/topic: Emotional regulation and Emotions

Suggested learning area: AC9HPFP03 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation)

I Have Feelings by Jana Hunter is a sweet story that explores the wide range of emotions children experience. Through relatable scenarios and simple text, the book helps young readers recognise and understand their own feelings, such as happiness, sadness, and anger, and what triggers those feelings. This book serves as an excellent resource to support children in describing and express emotions they experience in an appropriate way (AC9HPFP03 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education).

With its vibrant illustrations and engaging narrative, I Have Feelings encourages children to express their emotions in a healthy and constructive way. It provides a perfect opportunity to discuss emotional literacy, social skills, and respectful interactions with peers.

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Written by Sara O’Leary
Illustrated by Qin Leng
Published by Groundwood Books
Theme/topic: Diversity, Family history, Identity, and Recount

Suggested learning area: AC9HPFP01 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation) AC9HPFP02 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation) AC9HSFK01 (Humanities and Social Sciences – Foundation)

This heartwarming book celebrates diverse family structures and the love that binds them together. Through a classroom discussion, children share stories about their families, highlighting the uniqueness of each one while reinforcing the idea that all families are special.

This book provides opportunities for young students to explore concepts of family by recognising and describing family members (AC9HSFK01 – Foundation Year, Humanities and Social Sciences). It also encourages children to develop a sense of self within their family (AC9HPFP01 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education) while practising personal and social skills to interact respectfully with others, particularly in understanding inclusion and acceptance (AC9HPFP02 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education).

With its gentle storytelling and wonderful illustrations, A Family is a Family is a Family fosters empathy, respect, and an appreciation for the many forms that family can take.

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