For Parents

Presidents’ Day serves as a reminder of the role of the president and the foundational values of our democracy. Today and every day, it’s important to teach children about the responsibilities of leadership, including checks and balances and the democratic process.

Here are some books for kids that focus on the presidency, as well as how the democratic process works.

Ellie May on Presidents’ Day by Hillary Homzie

For younger readers, Ellie May on Presidents’ Day provides a relatable way to explore the presidency. I think this is a particularly fun and informative book for younger readers. (True Confession: I wrote this story). While it’s a chapter book, it’s also perfect for reluctant readers who are fourth and fifth graders. In this story, Ellie May learns about presidential qualities and how important it is to have strong, compassionate leadership. This story introduces kids to the idea that the president’s role is not just about authority but also about service to others.

For Which We Stand: How Our Government Works and Why It Matters by Jeff Foster

This book is a great way to get older elementary school as well as middle school students thinking about the democratic process and the roles that various government branches play. Foster breaks down the complex relationships between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. By highlighting how the system works together to ensure fairness, the book promotes the idea that balance is vital to preserving freedom and justice.

So You Want to Be President? by Judith St. George and Illustrated by David Small

This timeless picture book offers an entertaining and informative look at the quirks and qualities of past presidents. The engaging writing and vibrant illustrations by David Small make it a fantastic starting point for kids of all ages, including upper elementary school students. It introduces young readers to the many responsibilities of the president, including the challenges of leadership, while also celebrating the diversity of presidential experiences.

The Kid Who Ran for President by Dan Gutman

In this fun and imaginative story, a middle schooler runs for president. The book can help young readers gain a better understanding of what it takes to run a campaign. In a humorous style, the book demonstrates how democratic elections function. It points to the fact that anyone can make a difference and how it takes more than blind ambition to lead

Speaking of America by Jared Cohen

This book offers a deep dive into American history, values, and the evolution of leadership, especially focusing on the office of the president. Cohen’s exploration of key moments in American history illustrates how the presidency has influenced the country. It’s an excellent resource for helping kids understand how presidential decisions shape the nation, especially in times of national tension or transformation.

By sharing these books, teachers, librarians, parents and caregivers can help foster a deeper understanding of the democratic process. So as we celebrate Presidents’ Day, let’s remember that the presidency is not just about one individual—it’s about the collective efforts of all Americans to ensure that democracy continues to thrive for generations to come.

Hillary Homzie is the author of the Ellie May chapter book series (Charlesbridge, 2018), Apple Pie Promises (Sky Pony/Swirl, 2018), Pumpkin Spice Secrets (Sky Pony/Swirl, 2017), Queen of Likes (Simon & Schuster MIX 2016), The Hot List (Simon & Schuster MIX 2011) and Things Are Gonna Be Ugly (Simon & Schuster, 2009) as well as the Alien Clones From Outer Space (Simon & Schuster Aladdin 2002) chapter book series. She’s also a contributor to the Kate the Chemist middle grade series (Philomel Books/Penguin Random House). And her nonfiction picture book, If You Were a Princess: True Stories of Brave Leaders From Around the World is a look at historical and current princesses from many diverse lands who have made their mark (Simon & Schuster, August 2022). During the year, Hillary teaches at Sonoma State University. In the summer, she teaches in the graduate program in children’s literature, writing and illustration at Hollins University .She can be found at hillaryhomzie.com and on Instagram, and her Facebook page