Is there symbolism in children's literature?

Symbolism is a literary device found in all genres of literature, including children's literature. Many children's stories feature physical objects that act as symbols, carrying a deeper meaning beyond their literal definition.

An example of a children's story featuring symbolism is "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs." Snow White eats a poisoned apple, which symbolizes danger and evil. According to Jeneric Books, this symbol refers to the biblical story of Eve eating the apple offered to her by the serpent in the Garden of Eden. Both Eve and Snow White accept an apple from an untrustworthy character and are punished for eating them.