[February] Recommended picture books for 2-year-olds: Books that evoke winter and Setsubun

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Started performing in bands in junior high school. Influenced by Japanese rock and UK rock, spent over 10 years continuing band activities while creating original songs. Later began producing Vocaloid tracks using Hatsune Miku, with total plays of released songs surpassing 10,000. Has five years of experience writing for music magazines. Currently works as a music writer, director, and composer, keeping a ground-level perspective on the scene by attending live shows across Japan. Now performs at live houses in Tokyo, showcasing guitar playing centered on acoustic guitar and informed by knowledge of chord analysis and guitar scales. Also writes leveraging a broad knowledge of music genres.

Two-year-olds, who are starting to learn conversation and speak words through play and daily life, can make all sorts of discoveries by reading picture books.

Some of you may be looking for perfect read-aloud books for children with a February theme, when winter’s chill is at its peak.

In this article, we’ve put together recommended picture books for two-year-olds for the month of February.

We’ll introduce a wide range—from unique picture books that kids can enjoy by imitating characters’ facial expressions to stories that warm the heart.

Be sure to try these works that let you feel the winter season indoors together with your children.

[February] Recommended picture books for 2-year-olds: Books that let you feel winter and Setsubun (61–70)

red gloves

http://www.amazon.co.jp

This picture book charms with its gentle illustrations and storytelling, focusing on a child’s red mittens.

The two red mittens are always together, warmly wrapping a pair of small hands.

They helped when the child made a snowman for the first time and when rolling snowballs.

The way the red mittens are spoken of like close friends leaves your heart feeling softly warmed.

Children often lose their mittens, so if they think of them as friends like this, they might take better care of them.

In this book, the child loses one of the red mittens, too.

Let’s hope it’s found safe and sound…

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Kuupii and Kirakira-chan

http://www.amazon.co.jp

The story’s main character is Kuupee the little bear.

Kuupee meets Sparkle-chan, who has been separated from her friends, and decides to help her find them.

It’s a heartwarming tale perfect for winter read-alouds, and the white parts of the illustrations—like snow and snowmen—are fluffy to the touch, so you can enjoy the tactile feel as you read.

There are also glitter details and other fun features that kids will love.

As you search for Sparkle-chan’s friends with Kuupee, enjoy the textures and scenery of winter.

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Snowy path stroll

http://www.amazon.co.jp

Yukimichi Sanpo is a story about a girl taking a walk through a snowy landscape.

She looks outside to find a world of silver—who wouldn’t want to go out? Bundled up warmly, she crunches along the snow-covered path.

Along the way, she discovers camellia blossoms dusted with snow and icicles lined up along the eaves.

As you gaze at the beautiful watercolor illustrations, it feels as if a real winter scene is unfolding right before your eyes.

Children are sure to look on with sparkling eyes and enjoy it, too.

I’d be delighted if this picture book helps you find yet another way to enjoy winter.

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Te arā Īmo uga ĪmoAya Watanabe

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From the hugely popular “Vegetable Life” picture book series for children, here’s an introduction to the delightfully titled “Te-ara-IMO Uga-IMO.” Handwashing and gargling are very important daily habits.

But kids might skip them because they’re eager to play or find washing a hassle.

At times like that, why not read this picture book first and then try washing and gargling? It’s packed with catchy, rhythmic phrases that kids will want to sing along to.

If everyone hums along while washing their hands, it’s sure to make the routine more fun.

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In conclusion

We’ve introduced picture books perfect for February, ranging from illustration-focused titles to heartwarming stories.

The selection centers on books themed around Setsubun and winter, so they’re great for read-aloud sessions at seasonal events.

They’re also perfect for creating a fun reading time—engaging children with prompts and questions as you read.

Be sure to share these picture books that will warm up the cold winter with your children.