The 5 Best Picture Books About Ice Cream for Kids and How to Use Them in Your Homeschool #booksforkids #icecream #bestbooks #kidsbooks #picturebooks #summer #homeschooling

What could be better than ice cream on a hot summer day?

For kids, the only thing that might rival a cool scoop of their favorite flavour is a delicious story about ice cream itself!

Whether you're planning a summer reading list or just looking for fun, educational picture books that inspire joy and curiosity, these ice cream-themed books are sure to be a hit with young readers.



The Best Picture Books About Ice Cream for Kids

From the fascinating history of frozen treats to inspiring biographies and imaginative tales, this roundup of the best picture books about ice cream for kids has something for every little reader.

This picture book guide will help you pick the perfect books to scoop up for your home, classroom or library.



Why Ice Cream Picture Books Are Perfect for Kids

Ice cream isn’t just a treat, it’s a symbol of joy, celebration, and childhood nostalgia.

Picture books about ice cream can:
  • Spark curiosity about food science and history.
  • Inspire creativity through colourful illustrations.
  • Encourage discussions about culture and tradition.
  • Create positive associations with reading.

Plus, they make for perfect summer reads, especially when paired with a real cone or a cup of their favourite flavour!



The Best Picture Books About Ice Cream for Kids

Let’s dive into the best of the bunch.


Gail Gibbons, renowned for her engaging non-fiction picture books, serves up a delightfully educational look into the history, science and production of ice cream in Ice Cream: The Full Scoop.

With her signature blend of vibrant illustrations and fact-packed pages, this book gives kids a 'behind the scenes' tour of one of their favourite treat.

Why Kids and Parents Love It
  • Educational Value: Gibbons covers the history of ice cream from ancient China and Rome to modern-day manufacturing processes.

  • Kid-Friendly Language: The book simplifies complex concepts like pasteurisation and freezing techniques.

  • Illustrations: Detailed, colourful diagrams make the learning process fun.

Kids of all ages will love learning about the history of ice crea, across different cultures, how ice cream is made in factories, and the science behind freezing and flavouring.

This book is perfect for curious young minds who love 'how it works' books.




The Ice Cream Man is a moving biography that tells the true story of Augustus Jackson, a Black entrepreneur and innovator credited with modernizing ice cream production in the 1800s.

This lesser-known historical figure comes to life in a beautifully illustrated narrative that combines social history, food culture, and empowerment.

Why This Book Stands Out
  • Representation Matters: Highlights the contributions of a little known African American inventor in a kid-accessible format.

  • Empowering Message: Shows how determination and creativity can lead to sweet success, despite systemic obstacles.

  • Stunning Artwork: Keith Mallett’s illustrations add warmth and depth to the storytelling.

Kids will love learning about the role of Black innovators in American history, the importance of entrepreneurship and resilience in the face of adversity.

As a parent and educator, I'm always looking for diverse stories that inspire and educate, and this one definitely fits the bill.




This biographical picture book introduces kids to Frank Epperson, the clever boy who invented the popsicle in 1905.

Through whimsical illustrations and an engaging narrative, kids learn about Epperson’s curiosity and the happy accident that led to a frozen treat beloved worldwide.

What Makes It a Must-Read

  • STEM-Infused Storytelling: Highlights the scientific method, curiosity, and perseverance.

  • Engaging and Playful: Perfectly captures the joy of discovery.

  • Relatable Hero: Kids see how one idea, even from a child, can change the world.

  • Learning Takeaway: How mistakes can lead to innovation

Perfect For: Inspiring future scientists, inventors, and thinkers, and any kid who likes STEM.




Part of the Elephant & Piggie series, this simple yet profound book follows Gerald the elephant as he contemplates whether to share his ice cream with his best friend.

A must-read for teaching kindness and empathy - with a humorous twist that kids love.

Why it's great:
  • Expressive illustrations
  • Teaches social-emotional skills
  • Engages emerging readers




A visually rich story about a boy who writes a letter to his grandpa, detailing his summer filled with learning - and lots of ice cream.

This creative blend of imagination and information sneaks in geography, math, and history.

Why it's great:
  • Educational yet whimsical
  • Detailed and fun illustrations
  • Encourages learning through interests



The Educational Side of Ice Cream Books

Ice cream-themed picture books aren't just fun, they can be powerful educational tools.

Here's how you could extend these books into fun learning opprotunities:

1. Create a DIY Ice Cream Project

Make your own ice cream at home or in class!

This hands-on activity ties beautifully with books like Ice Cream: The Full Scoop.


2. History Timelines

Use books like The Ice Cream Man to discuss historical figures and timelines.

Kids can make posters or simple timelines about the development of ice cream.


3. Science Experiments

Inspired by The Boy Who Invented the Popsicle, try freezing different juices to explore what happens when liquids turn solid.


4. Creative Writing Prompts

Ask kids to imagine their own frozen treat invention.

What would it look and taste like? What would they name it?

Can they create an advertisement for it, a video, or a jingle to sell their new brand?



Whether you're prepping for summer reading, looking to mix food and fun into your child’s learning, or just want a few good books to devour, ice cream-themed picture books are a delightful option.

From fun reads to inspiring true stories, these books are great brain food, too!


More summer reading fun:


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