The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (https://www.scbwi.org/) is the most influential organization in the United States for children’s book creators.
SCBWI gives a number of awards annually to support children’s books (and hosts/sponsors a number of events). If you care about children’s books, you want to check them out.
One of their awards is the Crystal Kite award, where SCBWI members vote for their favorite books from the past year.
If you’re looking for new kidlit to read, this is a good starting place.