Welcome to the Storytime at Home Series! Once a month, we highlight a kid-approved theme with book lists, songs and rhymes, and a simple craft you can try at home. All books are available in our collection, and the crafts use easy-to-find items you likely already have on hand.
P.S. Love library storytime? Check out all of RPL’s storytime options here; there’s a program for your child almost every morning at our branches!
As the air turns crisp and the leaves transform into beautiful shades of red, orange, and gold, fall brings plenty of opportunities for little ones to explore the changing world around them. This month’s theme celebrates the sights, sounds, and colors of autumn, inviting young readers to discover how nature changes with the season. Through festive stories, fun songs, and a simple craft, families can explore falling leaves, cooler weather, and all the little wonders that make fall special. Cozy up with a good book from RPL!
Reading to your kiddos turns them into confident thinkers. Making books a regular part of your daily routine is a great way to build children’s love of reading and learning. Additionally, storytimes at home help build excitement around reading, encouraging children to explore books while supporting their early learning skills.
Here are a few book options you can choose from our collection:
Here are fifteen books that we are falling for this season, for a Storytime at Home for babies and Toddlers.
Baby Loves Fall: A Karen Katz Lift-the-Flap Book by Karen Katz.
Follow along with Baby and lift-the-flaps to see what Baby sees. Check out all the fun activities with this interactive board book that is perfect for early readers!
For ages 0 – 3.
Now I See Fall by Mac Barnett.
Investigate the changing seasons through a child’s perspective. Sparse, rhythmic text introduces everyday vocabulary while following the seasonal changes of the house, trees, garden, and surrounding environment. Simple language and engaging illustrations make this board book a lovely introduction to autumn, seasonal changes, and the natural world.
For ages 0 – 3.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s First Fall by Eric Carle.
Enjoy a cool autumn day with The Very Hungry Caterpillar! Featuring Eric Carle’s beloved character and signature collage-style illustrations, this seasonal board book introduces familiar fall activities and celebrates the changing season. It’s simple text and colorful artwork make it a fun introduction to autumn for the youngest readers.
For ages 0 – 3.
What Color Is It? by Alice Hemming.
In this interactive picture book, Squirrel and Bird explore their woodland home in search of colors. Young readers can lift the flaps to discover colorful surprises, including blue skies, brown deer, and a purple hat. Bright illustrations and engaging lift-the-flap elements introduce early color recognition while celebrating the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn leaves.
For ages 0 – 3.
Tap the Magic Tree by Christie Matheson.
Another interactive book for little readers, Tap the Magic Tree invites you to tap, rub, touch, and wiggle the pages of the book. As a tree goes through its seasonal journey, you can help it bloom and shed its’ leaves. Perfect for hosting your own Storytime at Home!
For ages 0 – 3.
Maisy Loves Trees by Lucy Cousins.
Learn with Maisy as she explores the wonderful world of trees, from the animals that call them home to the leaves that help us identify different kinds. Little readers will discover how trees grow from seeds and how they change throughout the seasons. Filled with fun facts and playful illustrations, this book is a lovely introduction to trees and nature for curious young readers.
For ages 0 – 3.
1, 2, 3 Can You Count Along? by Alice Hemming.
Join Squirrel and Bird as they follow mysterious noises through their sunny woodland, discovering all kinds of surprises along the way. Little readers can lift the flaps, count what they find, and meet woodpeckers, butterflies, mice, flowers, and plenty of Squirrel’s favorite leaves! With playful illustrations, interactive flaps, and plenty of humor, this book is sure to be enjoyed by all.
For ages 0 – 3.
We Are Grateful/ Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell.
Read about a Cherokee community throughout the year as they practice otsaliheliga, or gratitude, while experiencing the celebrations, traditions, and challenges each season brings. Through lyrical text and vibrant illustrations, little readers can explore the importance of giving thanks and appreciating the world around them. Complete with the Cherokee syllabary, this book offers a meaningful look at Cherokee culture, traditions, and seasonal changes.
For ages 0 – 3.
Not a Pumpkin by Susie Lee Jin.
Little readers can explore the wonders of fall with this sweet, interactive board book. Pumpkin-shaped flaps reveal adorable woodland animals, including foxes and owls, hiding underneath. With playful surprises on every page, this book is a fun way for toddlers to celebrate the autumn season.
For ages 0 – 3.
In the Middle of Fall by Kevin Henkes.
Explore the sights and sounds of fall while learning about autumn colors and the changes happening in plants and animals. Simple text and seasonal vocabulary help little readers discover how nature responds to cooler weather and changing winds.
For ages 0 – 3.
Go along with a curious bear as he discovers how leaves change throughout the seasons. Little readers can explore the different colors and transformations that take place as the weather changes. This sweet story is a lovely introduction to the changing seasons.
For ages 1 – 3.
Apple vs. Pumpkin: The Battle for the Best Fall Treat is on! by Lydia Jean.
Apple and Pumpkin go head-to-head in a playful debate over which one deserves to be crowned the favorite fall treat. Each takes a turn making their case and sharing what makes them special. Pick your fall favorite with this adorable book!
For ages 2 – 4.
This interactive board book introduces children ages 2– 4 to the life cycle of an apple tree and how it changes throughout the seasons. Layered die-cut pages and simple labels help little readers explore the different parts of a tree as it grows.
For ages 2 – 4.
Fall Day, All Day by Kari Percival.
In this joyful celebration of autumn, young readers explore the connections between people, animals, and the natural world. Lyrical text and vibrant digital woodcut illustrations highlight the seasonal changes happening all around us, from colorful falling leaves to animals preparing for winter. Kari Percival beautifully captures the rhythms of fall, encouraging children to recognize how our seasonal routines mirror those of plants and animals in the wild.
For ages 2 – 4.
During an autumn walk, a curious child becomes fascinated with pinecones and decides to collect as many as she can find. While her distracted dad tries to keep up, her growing collection leads to an unexpected little adventure.
For ages 2 – 7.
Here are fifteen books perfect for a Storytime at Home for ages five and up!
Trillions of Trees: A counting and Planting Book by Kurt Cyrus.
Grab a shovel and get ready to explore the wonderful world of trees, from towering poplars and pines to apple, peach, and plum trees! Through playful rhymes, little readers discover the importance of planting different kinds of trees and protecting the habitats they create. With a fun introduction to big numbers and healthy ecosystems, this book shows how planting one little sapling can help grow a whole forest
For ages 3 – 6.
A Fall Day For Bear by Bonny Becker.
When Mouse doesn’t show up for his picnic with Bear, Bear sets out to find his usually cheerful friend sitting sadly on a stump. Mouse is having a hard time watching the world change as leaves fall, flowers fade, and birds fly south for the winter. With a little patience, laughter, and friendship, Bear tries to show Mouse that even as the seasons change, there are still plenty of things to look forward to.
For ages 3 – 7.
Little Red. Autumn on the Farm by Will Hillenbrand.
The Shady Acre community is buzzing with excitement as everyone gets ready for the annual harvest festival! But with so many trucks to repair and jobs to finish, things aren’t going quite as planned. Luckily, Little Red is ready to lend a helping hand and save the festival just in time!
For ages 3 – 7.
Gather Grateful by Megan Litwin.
As the colors of nature begin to change, animals get busy preparing for the colder months ahead. Squirrels gather acorns, crows collect treasures, and raccoons find bits and pieces to make their homes cozy, while animals and people come together to share food, stories, and warmth. With rhythmic, lyrical prose, this story celebrates the changing season and the importance of finding comfort and connection as winter approaches.
For ages 3 – 7.
One Leaf, Two Leaves, Count with Me! by John Micklos
Practice both forward and backward counting in this fun picture book! Explore the changing seasons by following a tree through its seasonal cycles, from growing new leaves in the spring to shedding them in the autumn. Colorful illustrations also feature animals preparing for winter, adding visual interest and introducing young readers to seasonal changes in nature.
For ages 3 – 8.
Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf by Louis Ehlert.
In Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf, Lois Ehlert introduces young readers to the life cycle of a tree through simple, engaging text and vibrant illustrations. Ehlert’s signature collage-style artwork, created with a combination of painted paper, fabric, and natural materials, brings texture and visual interest to the changing seasons. This picture book is an excellent introduction to trees, seasonal changes, and nature, encouraging young readers to observe and appreciate the world around them.
For ages 3 – 8.
The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming.
Squirrel loves counting the colorful leaves on his tree, but when he discovers one is missing, he knows something is up! With help from his friend Bird, Squirrel sets out to search the forest and find the missing leaf. Join the pair as they investigate their woodland friends and try to uncover who took it!
For ages 4 – 8.
We Want Leaves! A Fall Chant by Jamie Swenson.
Join three children as they share all the fun adventures they have planned for the arrival of fall. From picking pumpkins and taking hayrides to exploring corn mazes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. This cheerful story captures the excitement of autumn and all the fun that comes with it!
For ages 4 – 8.
Watch as one tree goes through the changing seasons; as summer fades into fall and the first snowfall of winter arrives. With beautiful illustrations and informative details, this picture book gives young readers a closer look at how trees change throughout the year. A lovely read-aloud for home or the classroom, especially for little ones curious about the natural world
For ages 4 – 8.
Everyone knows to stay away from the grumpy old Scarecrow, but when a tiny baby crow falls from the sky, he does something no one expects: he saves him! As the unlikely pair grows closer, Scarecrow discovers that even the loneliest hearts can make room for friendship. But when the seasons begin to change, will their bond be strong enough to survive?
For ages 4 – 8.
From colorful falling leaves and cozy scarves to apple cider, pumpkin pies, and corn mazes, there’s so much to love about fall! Little readers can explore all the fun activities, tasty treats, and festive traditions that make this season special. Filled with playful rhymes and lively illustrations, this cheerful book is a celebration of all things autumn.
For ages 4 – 8.
Yellow Time by Lauren Stringer.
The beauty of autumn is front and center in this lyrical tribute to the season’s golden leaves! With poetic language and a gentle appreciation for the changing natural world, this story captures the magic of watching the trees transform. A lovely read for little readers who enjoy the colors and wonders of fall.
For ages 4 – 8.
Be a Tree! by Maria Gianferrari
Explore the surprising ways trees are like people in this thoughtful story about how trees grow, function, and depend on one another in a forest. Through this comparison, young readers discover the importance of connection, sharing, and caring for the world around them. Includes helpful notes about tree anatomy, ways to protect trees, and how to make a difference in your community.
For ages 4 – 8.
The Very Last Leaf by Jennifer Davison.
Lance Cottonwood is the best and brightest leaf in his class, but he’s nervous when it’s time for his final exam. Unlike his classmates, Lance is afraid to let go of his branch and fall to the ground. This sweet story explores the changing seasons while reminding little readers that trying something new can be scary.
For ages 5 – 8.
The Twelve Days of Autumn by Sherri Maret.
Celebrate the fall season with this playful reimagining of the classic song “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Little readers can discover a variety of woodland animals and wildlife as they explore the sights and sounds of autumn. With familiar rhythms and seasonal fun, this book offers a fresh take on a holiday favorite.
For ages 5 – 8.
Hosting your own Storytime at Home can be intimidating. Don’t worry, here are some tips and tricks for reading at home with your little one:
- Talk about the pictures! Point to different pictures and ask your child what they see. Help build their vocabulary by naming objects, animals, colors, and other things you notice together.
- Ask questions as you read. Encourage your child to think about the next story by asking questions like, what do you think will happen next? You can also connect the story to your own experiences. For example, This character is jumping in leaves; Do you remember when we saw the leaves?
- Make reading fun! Read with expression and enthusiasm and try to use different voices for the characters. The sillier, the better!
- Explore together. As your child gets older, try counting objects, naming colors, identifying shapes in the pictures and letters, and pointing out other details on the page.
- Snuggle up and take your time. Studies show that reading is a wonderful way to bond with your little one. To make reading a positive experience, follow your child’s lead and show patience. If they want to turn the pages, skip ahead, or are ready to be finished, that
- s perfectly OK! Remember, it’s all about enjoying time together, not how many pages you read.
- Check out The Basics for more helpful tips to encourage reading at home!
Scarf Songs
Scarf play paired with songs is a fun way to build early literacy skills while encouraging little ones to move, explore, and play! Singing together helps children develop listening skills, recognize rhymes and patterns, and build vocabulary. Likewise, as children wave, toss, and catch their scarves, they’re also practicing coordination and learning through movement. Additionally, you can use an old t-shirt, or a towel too if you don’t have a scarf at home!
The on the Trees (to the tune of Wheels on the Bus)
The leaves on the trees, fall to the ground, (throw scarf up and let it fall)
fall to the ground, fall to the ground
The leaves on the trees fall to the ground, all around the town
The leaves in the air swirl round and round, (twirl scarf in a circle in the air)
round and round, round and round.
The leaves in the air swirl round and round, all around the town.
The leaves on the ground, we rake them up (pretend to rake up leaves with scarf)
rake them up, rake them up.
The leaves on the ground, we rake them up- then JUMP right in (jump into pretend leaf pile).
If I were a Leaf (to the tune of Frère Jacques)
If I were a leaf on a windy day (wave scarf back and forth for the chorus),
a windy day, a windy day.
If I were a leaf on a windy day, I’d fall to the ground (pop scarf into the air and let it fall).
If I were a leaf on a windy day,
a windy day, a windy day.
If I were a leaf on a windy day, I’d make a crunchy sound (ball scarf up and make the “crunch” sound).
If I were a leaf on a windy day
a windy day, a windy day.
If I were a leaf on a windy day, I’d blow all around (bring scarf near your face and try and blow it into the air with your breath).
A Little Leaf
A little leaf is turning brown (hold scarf high).
A little wind so it falls down (drop the scarf to the ground).
A little rake into a bunch (while crouched down pretend to rake the scarf into a pile)
A little jump then a… (jump up with the scarf).
crunch, crunch, crunch, crunch (ball up scarf and make the “crunch” sound).
Leaf Sensory Bag
Image courtesy of kidscraftroom.com
Make this fun sensory bag with supplies you might have at home and the fallen leaves!
Supplies:
- Ziplock gallon sized plastic bag.
- Tape.
- Leaves.
- Oil.
- Food Coloring.
Instructions
- Choose the leaves you want to add to your bag.
- Pour cooking oil into the bag. You may want to use two bags for extra protection. Next, add enough oil so the leaves can move around easily, but avoid overfilling the bag.
- Add your food coloring and leaves.
- Seal the bag securely. For extra protection, use tape to secure the seal and attach the bag to a baking pan. This will then help contain any spills if the bag leaks or tears.
- Let your little ones explore! Encourage them to use their fingers to squish, slide, and move the leaves and colors around the bag while practicing their fine motor skills.
Want to see this in action? Check out kidscraftroom.com for more information on this craft.
Looking for more Storytime at Home fun? Then check out these past blogs from RPL:
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