Reading with your child is one of the best activities you can do to build his language and literacy. However, it can be challenging, especially if your child doesn’t seem to be interested. Did you know that his lack of interest could be due to his choice of book? Since a child’s ability to engage with books can vary by age and developmental level, we have compiled a guide to help you choose the best, age appropriate books for your child.
- Infants to Toddlers (newborn to age 3)
- Choose bright colors and pictures that the child can recognize – bright colors will help your child stay engaged.
- Books that appeal to your child’s senses
- Board books or fabric books – these are harder to destroy
- Books that rhyme – this teaches your child repetition and what to expect next.
- If your child isn’t speaking, try books with bilabial sounds (sounds where your lips come together like M, B or P words). They can watch you moving your lips to learn how to say the words themselves.
- Examples: Brown Bear Brown Bear What Do You See by Eric Carle or Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
- Preschoolers (ages 3-5)
- Colorful pictures that are engaging to your young child
- Quick moving books that you can read in one setting
- Books that showcase numbers, letters, shapes or colors.
- Characters around the age of the child to help them feel more engaged with the story.
- Examples: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein or Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
- School Age (ages 6-11)
- Colorful illustrations to bring the stories to life
- Books that teach a skill or recipe books help your child put what they’re reading into practice.
- Choose books that have some challenging words that help expand vocabulary for your child.
- Make picture books – take pictures with your child on a trip, make the book together, add captions and read with each other.
- Chapter Books that include your child’s favorite characters.
- Example: Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White or The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Reading a story is a great way to not only teach your child but also engage their imagination. Use these tips to find a great book to enjoy with your child today!
