7 Waldorf Inspired Children’s Books for Autumn

Pippa and Pelle in the Autumn Wind – Daniela Drescher

 

One of the most beloved artists in our family is Daniela Drescher. Her books are portals into an ethereal, whimsical universe that feels both magical and inviting, a place I wish I could step into myself. The Pippa and Pelle series is among our favorites. These charming board books make wonderful seasonal gifts, perfect for a pumpkin basket or as a stocking stuffer. Their small size and enchanting illustrations allow children to explore them independently, even before they can read, offering a gentle introduction to the beauty and rhythm of the autumn season.

 

Autumn Story: Brambly Hedge by Jill Barklem

 

We love the stories of Brambly Hedge because of their coziness and the magic that unfolds in the mouse community. In this story, the mice prepare for the season’s harvest, capturing the busyness of autumn life. For children, this book is particularly enriching because the detailed illustrations encourage careful looking and invite discussion around gathering food and preparing for colder months. In our home we find this offers a natural way to understand the cycle of the season and discuss more deeply the preservation of food, the garden’s harvest and how animals alike prepare for winter.

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s My Favorite Things – Illustrated by Renee Graef

 

Quite literally one of our favorite books, My Favorite Things can be sung slowly and sweetly, guiding children through some of life’s most magical and comforting gifts: the copper kettle, warm apple strudel, and brown packages for opening. The warmth and simplicity this book offers makes it perfect for fall, as the days grow shorter and cooler. The song My Favorite Things has long been a cherished lullaby in our home, often sung before bedtime or when one of our children is unwell. Last year, we had the joy of supporting our local community theater by attending a live performance of The Sound of Music, where this beloved song was beautifully performed by a local actress. It was a wonderful way to bring the story alive and connect our family with live arts in the community.

 

What Happens in the Autumn – Suzanne Venino

 

Books with real photography offer children a rich and tangible connection to the natural world. What Happens in the Autumn presents images of maple leaves frosted with morning dew, milkweed pods, acorns, composting leaves, and local wildlife, accompanied by educational text. The book highlights the splendor of North America’s Eastern autumn, with dazzling golden and crimson leaves. Supporting National Geographic through books and magazines is a cherished practice in our family. We subscribe to National Geographic Kids and enjoy exploring its content together through activity by creating collages, reading aloud, and discovering fascinating facts. This shared learning fosters curiosity and wonder, and we are deeply grateful for the gift of such rich, seasonal exploration.

 

The Apple Cake Story – Nienke van Hichtum, Illustrations by Marjuan van Zeyl

 

In this charming tale, an old woman searches for apples to bake her apple cake, trading goods with neighbors and townspeople until she finds the perfect fruit. This story beautifully illustrates the values of community, cooperation, and exchanging one’s gifts to meet a need. Through vibrant illustrations, the essence of autumn comes alive, showcasing the season’s colors and harvest bounty. This story holds special meaning for our family, as apple cake is a beloved Waldorf tradition and we visit our neighbors to pick apples for our apple cake. It gently introduces children to the importance of helping others, civic-mindedness, and asking for support when needed. The book even includes an apple cake recipe, making it a perfect companion to apple picking and seasonal baking, creating a shared rhythm and ritual with young children.

 

Wild Child – Lynn Plourde

 

This seasonal story is part of a series celebrating the rhythms of nature. In this tale, the Wild Child is Autumn herself, guided by her mother, Mother Earth, through the fullness of the season. The illustrations are vibrant and abstract, capturing the movement, joy, and golden essence of autumn. I love sharing this story with my children because it introduces the concept of impermanence, the idea that seasons come and go. Autumn will awaken, play, and eventually rest, giving way to Winter. For young children, understanding these cycles can be new and sometimes challenging, often leading to the question, “What comes next?” Through stories like this, children develop a deeper awareness of nature’s rhythms, creating a sense of continuity, wonder, and connection to the natural world.

 

Autumn by Gerda Muller

 

Part of a cherished seasonal series, Autumn invites children to pick apples, jump into golden piles of leaves, and observe the subtle changes in nature. This board book encourages independent exploration and imaginative play, while gently fostering a connection to the natural world. It helps young children develop observation skills, a sense of seasonal rhythm, and an appreciation for the small wonders of nature.