Being able to read with our children is such an enjoyable and rewarding experience for parents, guardians and teachers. Children need books as sensory and information resources to build vocabulary and understand concepts that are part of their world. The activity promotes bonding and emotional connection between us and helps to develop language and cognition skills. With exposure to new vocabulary and concepts, children are able to be more imaginative and love reading. There are many options for different age groups that can help foster this love. When looking for books for your children, be sure to introduce concepts and stories that resemble real life in order to have it resonate with your child. Pick out books with beautiful illustrations and allow your child to be immersed in the art of the stories. Try to find books that have a great use of descriptive words and avoid baby talk. Also be sure to look out for unique features that can allow for new discoveries every time you read the book!
Here are some amazing options that can help promote language and literacy and encourage reading in Toddler, Primary and Elementary aged children.
Toddler
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Helen Oxenbury
This timeless classic has captured the hearts of many children for good reason. The detailed illustrations transport young readers to various landscapes and capture their attention. It is a book that is easy to read and lends itself well to repeated readings, making it a beloved choice for parents and children alike.
Farm (Look and Say Board Books) by Jo Litchfield
Interactive books are an excellent choice for toddlers, and this one excels in providing sensory activities that align with Montessori learning principles. The soft, gentle colours introduce children to farmyards and farm animals, with clear labeling for easy recognition. This not only enhances recognition skills but also serves as a great starting point for toddlers to identify different animals.
Big and Little by Margaret Miller
This book is a valuable resource both in school and at home. Its simplicity in language and use of phrases are perfectly suited for toddlers to make it an ideal choice. Children can learn one word at a time with this book, and its clear images allow toddlers to understand and recognize what is happening within the story.
Primary
Intersection Allies by Chelsea Johnson
For older children aged 3 to 6, this book is a heartwarming choice that unveils the beautiful stories of children hailing from all corners of the globe, representing diverse backgrounds and abilities. Young readers discover inspiring narratives that showcase the power of unity and cooperation among these remarkable characters. It's a powerful testament to the idea that, no matter our differences, we all share a common bond of supporting and uplifting one another.
Press Here by Herve Tullet
"Press Here" is an entirely interactive book designed to captivate young minds. As your child flips through its pages, they'll find themselves engaged in a playful experience of pressing dots and turning pages to witness the magical transformations that unfold before their eyes. Colours shift, dots come to life, and patterns change as little fingers interact with the dots on each page.
Waterhole by Graeme Base
This is not just your ordinary counting book. It's a brilliantly crafted work of art with a conscience and visually stunning illustrations. Within its pages, young readers embark on a journey to a waterhole where the numbers take center stage. Starting from ten and counting down to one, children watch as the waterhole gradually diminishes while various animals gather to quench their thirst. This book combines the joy of counting with a message about sharing resources and coexisting harmoniously with the natural world.
Elementary
Breathing Makes It Better by Christopher Willard and Wendy O'Leary
This book takes you into the world of emotional resilience and tranquility. This remarkable book is not just a story; it's a guide that gently shows children the incredible power of their breath as a bridge from overwhelming emotions to a state of calm. In a blend of wisdom and warmth, the book presents a range of easy, visually engaging practices that help children navigate challenging situations. These techniques become valuable tools in their emotional toolkit, empowering them to face the ups and downs of life with confidence.
My First Piano Lessons by Emily Norris
My First Piano Lessons is tailor-made for young learners aged 5 to 9, offering a delightful and engaging introduction to the world of music. With step-by-step instructions, kids will be gently guided through the basics of piano playing and learn the joys of the instrument. Children will learn the names of keys, the language of music notation, and the values of notes through an approach that nurtures their creativity and curiosity.
Gustav Is Missing!: A Tale of Friendship and Bravery by Andrea Zuill
This adorable and charming picture book starts when young readers are introduced to Little Cap, a character who embodies the values of friendship and bravery. Little Cap's journey is an inspiring one as he musters up his courage and embarks on an adventure beyond his home to find his beloved pet slug, Gustav. The illustrations are nothing short of delightful and captivate both the eye and the heart. For children who may be more cautious or hesitant, Little Cap's anxieties and uncertainties become an essential part of their reading experience, allowing them to relate and cheer for him as he undertakes his daring rescue mission.
The exposure to new vocabulary and concepts through books is the key to nurturing a child's imagination and instilling a lifelong love for reading. May your child find pure delight in the pages of one of these books!
