Best Children's Dance Books of 2025

Celebrity dancer Allison Holker Boss and her late husband Stephen “tWitch” Boss's first picture book, Keep Dancing Through: A Boss Family Groove, is a touching celebration of family and their motto of perseverance. The Boss family's daily routine, from breakfast spills to rainy days, is a reminder of the power of dance and spreading love and kindness. The book encourages readers of all ages to dance to their own beat. The book includes a letter from the author and is beautifully illustrated by Shellene Wright. Keep Dancing Through is a heartwarming read that will inspire readers to keep dancing, no matter what.

Giraffes Can't Dance (Board Book) is a heartwarming story about a giraffe named Gerald who wants to dance but struggles with his crooked knees and thin legs. With the help of an unlikely friend, Gerald is able to find the confidence to dance to his own tune. The book's light-footed rhymes and high-stepping illustrations are sure to spark interest in the read-aloud crowd. This children's dance book, published by Cartwheel Books, is a great source of gentle inspiration for every child with dreams of greatness.

Barnyard Dance! (Boynton on Board) is a delightful board book by Sandra Boynton. The book features a cast of wacky farm animals who dance, twirl, and prance to the rhythm of the rhyming text. The illustrations are colorful, and the characters are adorable. This book is perfect for young children and their parents who want to have some fun together. Overall, Barnyard Dance! is a charming and entertaining read that is sure to put a smile on anyone's face.

Giraffes Can't Dance is a charming children's book about self-esteem and finding one's own rhythm. The story follows Gerald, a giraffe with crooked knees and thin legs, who is mocked by other animals for his inability to dance. However, with the help of a friendly cricket, Gerald learns that everyone can be wonderful in their own way. The rhyming text may be a bit awkward, but the bold and bright watercolor illustrations by Guy Parker-Rees are sure to captivate young readers. Overall, this book is a heartwarming tale with a valuable lesson for children.

Dinosaur Dance! by Sandra Boynton is a delightful board book that introduces young readers to nine unique dinosaurs, each of which dances in a way that seems totally appropriate for that particular species. With rhyming couplets about dancing dinosaurs and endless movement possibilities, this book is sure to make children giggle and groove along with the lively prehistoric bunch. Boynton has a sly wit that amuses both children and adults, making it a great addition to storytime shelves. Overall, Dinosaur Dance! is a fun and engaging read for young children who love dinosaurs and dancing.

I'm a Ballerina! (Little Golden Book) is a charming children's book that takes readers inside a ballet class and follows a little girl as she prepares for her first recital. The book is engaging and informative, giving young readers a glimpse into the world of ballet and inspiring young ballerinas to pursue their dreams. The illustrations are colorful and lively, capturing the energy and excitement of the dance studio and the stage. Overall, this book is a delightful addition to any child's library, and a wonderful way to introduce young readers to the beauty and grace of ballet.

Woodland Dance! (Boynton on Board) is a delightful read-aloud children's book that follows the woodland animals as they dance the night away to the music of the Woodland Dance Trio. The lyrical text and charming illustrations by Sandra Boynton make this book a magical addition to any child's library. With over sixty children's books and five New York Times bestsellers under her belt, Boynton is a beloved author and illustrator. This book is a must-read for any young child who loves animals and music.

I Am a Rainbow! is a picture book that tells the story of Mark, a professional dancer and LGBTQIA+ advocate, who loves to dance and dress up. However, he gets teased at school for his unique style. To help him shine, Mark's parents give him a beautiful cape that makes him feel invincible and free to express himself. The book is a celebration of self-acceptance, relatable, and inspired by real-life events. The illustrations by Richard Merritt are bright and energetic, bringing joy to children across the world. Overall, I Am a Rainbow! is a unique and inspiring read for children who feel different and need a reminder to embrace their uniqueness.

Fancy Nancy: Budding Ballerina by Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser is a delightful addition to the Fancy Nancy series. The book follows Nancy's family as they join her in ballet class, and readers will enjoy learning the various ballet positions with her. The illustrations by Robin Preiss Glasser are charming and capture the essence of the Fancy Nancy series. This children's dance book is perfect for young readers who love ballet or are interested in trying it out. Overall, Fancy Nancy: Budding Ballerina is a fun and educational read that will captivate young readers.

The Night Before My Dance Recital by Natasha Wing is a heartwarming story that celebrates the joy of dance and the importance of practice. The story follows a young girl as she prepares for her first dance recital and overcomes her fears of making mistakes. The engaging illustrations by Amy Wummer bring the story to life, making it perfect for children who love dance. This children's dance book is published by Grosset & Dunlap and is a great read for children who are interested in dance. Overall, The Night Before My Dance Recital is a fun and inspiring book that encourages children to pursue their passions.