The Best Every Child is an Artist Books for Preschoolers

This April, our Creatively Shine® curriculum theme, “Every Child is an Artist,” invites children to explore creativity in all its forms. Through art, storytelling, music, and imaginative play, children begin to discover that creativity isn’t limited to paintbrushes and crayons. It can be found in the stories they invent, the songs they sing, the structures they build, and the ideas they bring to life.

In a Reggio Emilia–inspired classroom, creativity is viewed as one of the many “languages” children use to express themselves. Children are encouraged to experiment with materials, explore new ideas, and share their perspectives with the world around them.

To help you continue the creativity and inspiration at home, we’ve selected a collection of beautiful picture books that celebrate imagination, artistic expression, and the joy of making something new.

1. Mixed: A Colorful Story by Arree Chung

This vibrant and meaningful story introduces children to a world of colors that learn to blend, mix, and work together. Beyond its playful illustrations, the book gently explores themes of diversity, friendship, and creativity.

2. This Book Is Gray by Lindsay Ward

In this clever and humorous story, Gray believes he should be the star of the book, but the other colors have different ideas. Children will love the lively debate between colors while learning about artistic collaboration and the beauty of variety.

3. ABCs of Art by Sabrina Hahn

This visually stunning alphabet book introduces children to the elements of art, from abstract to zigzag. Filled with color and creativity, it’s a wonderful way to expose young artists to the language and ideas behind artistic expression.

4. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

A timeless classic, this imaginative story follows Harold as he draws his own world with a simple purple crayon. As his drawings come to life, children discover the incredible power of imagination and creative problem-solving.

5. The Art Lesson by Tomie dePaola

Based on the author’s childhood, this heartfelt story follows young Tommy as he learns that art is about personal expression rather than perfection. It’s a wonderful reminder that creativity belongs to everyone.

6. Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg

Mistakes become opportunities for creativity in this interactive and playful book. Through clever flaps and illustrations, children discover that accidents can transform into something beautiful.

7. Anywhere Artist by Nikki Slade Robinson

This joyful story celebrates the idea that creativity can happen anywhere. Whether it’s drawing in the sand, building with blocks, or painting at the kitchen table, children learn that being an artist simply means expressing themselves.

8. Maybe Something Beautiful by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell

Inspired by a real-life community project, this uplifting story shows how art can transform an entire neighborhood. It beautifully illustrates how creativity can bring people together and brighten the world around us.

9. I Ain’t Gonna Paint No More! by Karen Beaumont

This energetic and hilarious book follows a child who simply can’t stop painting—on the walls, the floor, and even themselves! With rhythmic storytelling and playful illustrations, it captures the joyful chaos of creative exploration.

10. Show the World by Angela Dalton

This inspiring story encourages children to share their creativity and let their voices be seen and heard. It celebrates courage, imagination, and the power of expressing who you are.

11. If I Built a House by Chris Van Dusen

In this imaginative tale, a young boy dreams up the ultimate house filled with incredible inventions and creative rooms. The story invites children to think big, design boldly, and imagine all the possibilities their creativity can build.

Happy reading!