Books About Snakes for Kids
Snakes were never my favorite animals when I was growing up. However, when my kids started asking questions about them, I decided to create a list of books about snakes for kids to nurture their curiosity. As we spotted snakes in books and nature shows, I realized it was the perfect opportunity to learn more alongside them.
I have a whole section dedicated to learning about animals through hands-on and educational ideas—check out my Animal Activities for Kids if you want to branch out and explore beyond reptiles.
I’m sharing a fun mix of facts, activities, and some of our favorite snake-themed books. Whether your child is fascinated or just mildly interested, there’s plenty here to keep them engaged. Keep reading for hands-on ideas and new reads you might not have come across yet.
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Interesting Facts About Snakes Kids Might Not Know
- Snakes smell with their tongues. That flicking motion they do? It helps them pick up scent particles and analyze them with a special organ in the roof of their mouth.
- Some snakes give birth to live young. Not all snakes lay eggs—boa constrictors and garter snakes are two examples that have live births.
- Snakes don’t have eyelids. Instead of blinking, snakes have a special scale that covers and protects their eyes, which gives them that ever-watchful look.
Why should kids learn about snakes?
For a long time, I avoided anything snake-related because of my fears. But when my son asked me questions like “Are all snakes dangerous?” I knew I couldn’t brush it off. Learning about snakes gives kids a real sense of how animals function in the wild, and it helps replace fear with understanding.
These slithering reptiles are essential to ecosystems. From controlling rodent populations to being prey for other animals, they play a key role. Helping kids understand this teaches respect for wildlife and encourages thoughtful observation.
Recommended Snake Toys Kids Will Love
Toys can take the learning to a different level. Whether it’s realistic snake figures, puzzles, or movement-based games, these options allow kids to interact with what they’re learning in a hands-on way.
Safari Ltd. Cobra Figurine – Detailed 6lihsong Electric Rattlesnake Toy Snake Scary Trick Toy for Kids PlayGothink Wooden Snakes and Ladders Game – 13 Inch Educational Board Game for Kids and Adults – Classic Board Game Includes 6 Counters & 2 Dice, RulesTerra by Battat Remote Control Emerald Tree Boa – Electronic Snake Toy for Kids Ages 6+LovesTown Montessori Wooden Alphabet Puzzle for Toddlers, Snake ABC Learning Toys for Kids, Educational Preschool Jigsaw Puzzle for Early Childhood Development, Ideal Gift for Boys and GirlsSnake Magic Speed Cube Speed Twist Brain Puzzle Cube Brain Teaser Toys for ADD ADHD Anxiety and Autism Adult Children by SHUYUE (Yellow & Black)
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What Can Kids Learn from These Books About Snakes?
Books about snakes aren’t just about the animals—they also build many skills.
- Scientific observation – Children learn to spot physical traits, behavior patterns, and habitats of various snake species.
- Respect for wildlife – Learning how snakes live and interact with their environment promotes a healthy attitude toward all animals.
- Vocabulary growth – Each book introduces new terms related to biology, ecosystems, and animal behavior in a kid-friendly way.
- Critical thinking through Q&A sections – Many books include thought-provoking questions, encouraging kids to reflect and reason.
Recommended Animal Printable Packs
If you’re building out your animal studies, I’ve also put together printable packs that bring these topics to life. They’re easy to prep and perfect for adding depth to your reptile unit.
More Animal Activities To Check Out
Once your kids are hooked on animals, stopping at just one topic is hard. If you’re looking for other creatures to explore, I’ve got you covered with various animal-themed ideas.
- Forest Animal Activities for Preschoolers
- Snake Activities for Preschoolers
- Desert Food Chain Printable
- Kangaroo Coloring Pages
- Different Types of Snakes Worksheet by Homeschool of 1
- Snake Paper Bag Puppet Craft by Simple Everyday Mom
If your child is fascinated by snakes or just getting to know them, these books make it easier to teach and explore together. Reading opens the door to understanding even the creepiest crawlers.