Katrina Morse for Family Reading Partnership
Open a picture book and inside you’ll find a world of wonder waiting to be discovered. It could be an exciting story about far-away lands or a comforting tale about everyday life. It could be a story that introduces new ideas or shows how something works. There are so many children’s books to read!
Share the magic of stories with the young children in your life and give a book as a gift for a holiday, a birthday, or your own spontaneously created special occasion. Start a tradition of making books part of family celebrations. You’ll be giving more than just a physical book. You’ll be giving the experience of sharing it together again and again, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Out of the many choices of books for young children, consider the interests and personality of the child who will be receiving your book gift.
For a wiggly child, choose books that have motions that can be acted out as you read. There is no need to sit still for these stories. Bend, stretch, and make noises. After a few readings your child will come to anticipate what action or sound is coming next.
- “Wheels on the Bus” by Raffi, illustrated by Sylvie Wickstrom
- “Dinosaur Dance,” by Sandra Boynton
- “There’s a Monster in Your Book” by Tom Fletcher, illustrated by Greg Abbott
To wind down at bedtime, choose a book with a calming storyline that leaves children ready to doze off to sleep.
- “I Love You to the Moon and Back” by Amelia Hepworth, illustrated by Tim Warnes
- “Steam Train, Dream Train,” by Sherri Duskey Rinker, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld
- “Goodnight Little Bear” by Patsy Scarry, illustrated by Richard Scarry
Around age 3 or 4 children start developing their own sense of humor. Pick a book with silly, unexpected happenings that will elicit giggles.
- “Come Home Already!” by Jory John, illustrated by Benji Davies
- “Silly Sally” by Audrey Wood
- “Ball” by Mary Sullivan
For a child who loves learning about new things, there are many fact-filled picture books with engaging stories that will make them want to know more.
- “The Story of Snow” by Jon Nelson, illustrated by Mark Cassino
- “The Raft” by Jim LaMarche
- “Hello Hello” by Brendan Wenzel
When you find an author or subject that your child loves, you can find similar books at your local bookseller or library. Enjoy!
Family Reading Corner 