Gift Ideas for Chinese-Speaking Kids

Looking for a gift for Chinese American kid? Look no further, I've rounded up the best books for babies and toddlers that we carry. 

At Lotus Leaf Books, we curate Chinese children’s books with pinyin guides so that caregivers, natively fluent or not, can share stories confidently. Whether you're shopping for a baby shower, a toddler birthday, or a just-because gift, here are a few of our most-loved picks that families keep coming back to.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar 好饿的毛毛虫

There's a reason this story is a classic! Babies and toddlers will love this book as they follow the hungry caterpillar's journey to becoming a butterfly. My daughter was captivated by this book during tummy time, with its colorful illustrations, and still reaches for it today as a toddler! This sturdy board books comes in Simplified Chinese and we provide a printed out pinyin and vocabulary guide.

Best for: Ages 0-4

I Am Me! 我就是我!

This board book from Duck Duck Books celebrates identity and self-love through simple, rhythmic Chinese text. It’s a great read-aloud for toddlers, and includes both pinyin and English so that even non-fluent parents or grandparents can join in. I love that this book features real photos of children - this reminds me of the Lovevery books that everyone loves, but bilingual in Chinese and English!

Best for: Ages 1–4

Bizzy Bear: Preschool 小熊很忙 – 爱上幼儿园

This bilingual push-pull-tab book introduces preschool routines through a lovable bear’s day at school. The interactive format is ideal for toddlers and supports Mandarin language exposure in a fun, low-pressure way. This book is also great for children who may be starting preschool or daycare and are a bit anxious.

Best for: Ages 1–4

My Favorite Gift 我最爱的礼物

Not to get too meta, but this book may turn out to a favorite gift, indeed! A gentle reminder that time with loved ones is the best gift of all. This book from Spark Collection includes interactive dry-erase pages for learning characters. This book is bilingual in English and Simplified Chinese and also includes pinyin.

Best for: Ages 2–5

Still need help deciding? Feel free to reach out through email or Instagram @lotusleafbooks. We're happy to offer personal recommendations.