It is never too early to introduce your children to the world of reading. From the time your little ones are born, there are plenty of excellent board books to begin reading to them. As your child grows, you will move on to more advanced children’s literature for your family story times. Eventually, your child will read books independently – possibly with a flashlight at bedtime.
To help you increase your child’s love of reading, you should choose books they will love. Look at the list below that includes books for babies and up through independent readers to build a library guaranteed to bring your child joy.
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney is the perfect book to read aloud to your baby. Along with beautiful illustrations and simple language, the book reinforces the idea of a parent’s unconditional love. Plus, children will love stretching their little arms high in the sky just like the rabbits.
Every child’s library must have a copy of the classic Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendek. This colorful tale encourages imagination and playfulness.
Your toddler’s library is not complete without a Dr. Seuss book, and Horton Hears a Who! is an excellent choice. Children love the colorful illustrations and playful rhymes of Dr. Seuss, but this book stands out because of its message.
As your child gets a little older and can sit and listen to longer stories, The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams Bianco is a beautiful book to introduce.
Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne stands the test of time. Children (and adults) love the sweet stories of Pooh Bear, Piglet, and Christopher Robin. Also, the audio version of the book is great for short rides.
As you move into chapter books, make time to read Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White with your child. It is a terrific book to introduce the concept of chapters, plot, and characters.
As your child grows and matures, The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is a fantastic way to introduce themes and symbolism.
For independent readers, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is an excellent choice. This fantasy will capture their imaginations and introduce them to the various elements of storytelling.
Children love Roald Dahl! His quirky characters and imaginative plots will make them want to keep reading long after the chapters end. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is often one of the first Dahl books children read.
The book, Where the Sidewalk Ends, is Shel Silverstone’s well-loved poetry collection that children and adults love. If you are looking for a way to introduce your child to poetry, this is a collection he or she will love!
Building your child’s home library is a beautiful way to develop a love of reading. Besides, you will have plenty of books to read aloud together.
