Groundhog Day Read Alouds
Groundhog Day is a delightful way to break up the winter months and introduce a bit of fun into your classroom. It’s a chance for your kindergarteners to learn about weather predictions, groundhogs, and traditions in an exciting way. Choosing the right books for a read-aloud can help your students connect with the day and enjoy the anticipation of whether the groundhog will see its shadow. In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite Groundhog Day books that are perfect for captivating young learners, building knowledge, and making this special day extra fun!
Groundhog Day Read Alouds
Groundhogs! By Hope Aicher
Have your students ever seen a groundhog? Here’s a great nonfiction book about groundhogs. With simple text and colorful photos, your students will discover fun facts about these furry creatures and their underground homes.
Groundhog’s Day Off by Robb Pearlman
This story is a hilarious twist on the traditional Groundhog Day story. When the groundhog gets tired of only being known for predicting the weather, he takes a day off to show everyone there’s more to him than just his shadow.
Gregory’s Shadow by Don Freeman
You will love this heartwarming story about a groundhog named Gregory and his shadow. When the two become separated, they discover how important their friendship is and find a way back to each other.
The Night Before Groundhog Day by Natasha Wing
Here’s a playful take on the classic “Night Before Christmas” poem, reimagined for Groundhog Day. The story follows a family as they prepare for the big day, filled with excitement and anticipation about whether the groundhog will see its shadow. Students will love the rhyming text, too!
Groundhog Day by Margaret McNamara
This is a charming story from the Robin Hill School series that introduces students to some of the traditions of Groundhog Day. The students in Mrs. Connor’s class eagerly await the groundhog’s big moment and learn about shadows along the way.
How to Catch a Groundhog by Alice Walstead
It wouldn’t be a holiday without a book from the “How to Catch” series! The story follows a group of kids as they set clever traps to catch a tricky groundhog, all while learning about its habits and quirks.
Groundhog Day by Gail Gibbons
Here’s another wonderful nonfiction book by Gail Gibbons! This book introduces children to the history and traditions of this unique holiday. With clear, simple text and engaging illustrations, children learn about groundhogs, the legend of Punxsutawney Phil, and how Groundhog Day is celebrated. We especially love the illustration of the groundhog’s underground tunnels!
Substitute Groundhog by Pat Miller
Your students have heard of a substitute teacher, but what about a substitute groundhog? This is a story about Groundhog, who gets sick just before his big day and must find a substitute to take his place. As he auditions various animals, the animals learn important lessons about being yourself and letting teamwork shine through.
Groundhug Day by Anne Marie Pace
That’s not a typo – this adorable story is really called Ground-hug Day! This story is about a groundhog named Greg who doesn’t want to come out of his burrow on Groundhog Day. With the help of his friends, Greg learns to overcome his fears and discovers that coming out to predict the weather can be a positive experience. This charming, gentle story is a perfect way to teach your students about overcoming anxiety and embracing new experiences!
Groundhog Gets It Wrong by Jessica Townes
No one likes making mistakes, even groundhogs! This story is about a groundhog who confidently predicts an early spring, only to find that his prediction is off. As the days pass, the groundhog learns that sometimes things don’t go as planned and sometimes we have to embrace the unexpected.
Grumpy Groundhog by Maureen Wright
This story makes me laugh every time! Groundhog is so cozy in his den that he does NOT want to come out for Groundhog Day! Students will love watching the townspeople do everything they can to get Groundhog to come out!
Have Fun Celebrating Groundhog Day!
I hope these Groundhog Day books help bring some fun and learning into your classroom this February! Whether you’re focusing on weather, animals, or just enjoying the quirky tradition, these stories are sure to leave your students excited and eager to share their thoughts. Don’t forget to incorporate a few activities or discussions afterward to keep the fun going. For example, my Groundhog Day Centers and this adorable paper bag Groundhog Day craft add a little extra fun to the day! Happy Groundhog Day, and may your class have lots of fun predicting whether or not we’ll see our shadow this year!
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