Books, Books and More Books!

Books may seem old-school to some but the power of books is undeniable. Another overlooked aspect about books is the benefits they have on development just by being read aloud. Language exposure, increased vocabulary and an introduction and increase into imaginations are just a few of those benefits. Early reading can develop into a lifelong love of reading.

Each book provides a new sense of adventure. Reading can help a child understand concepts such as letters, rhyming, identifying objects in pictures, asking/answering questions, and provides quality time for you and your child. When it comes to reading to your children, the earlier the better. Literacy skills can begin as early as 3-months of age, even though they may just show interest by chewing on the book!

So, what books are the best?

Under 12 months-toddlers

A favorite for this age group is the bedtime story “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown, who tells the story of a bunny saying goodnight to everything around it. Additional books may include Dr. Seuss books such as, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go”, “The Cat in the Hat”, “Green Eggs and Ham”, “One Fish Two Fish”, etc.; the list goes on and on! More books for beginner readers may include “Curious George” by Margaret Ray, “Goodnight Gorilla” by Peggy Rathman, “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you see?” by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle, and “Guess How Much I Love You” by Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram.

Pre-school and Kindergarten (age 4+)

Some great books for this age group includes: “Clifford the Big Red Dog” series by Norman Bridwell, “If You Give a Mouse…” series by Harper Collins, additional Harper Collins books such as “If You Give a Moose a Muffin”, Dr. Seuss books, “Little Critter…” series by Mercer Mayer, “Pete the Cat” series by Eric Litwin, and Berenstain Bears” by Stan Berenstain and Jan Berenstain

Elementary Age: 1st Grade and Above

For children that are in the 1st grade and higher, some books that they may enjoy include: “Magic Tree House” by Mary Pope Osbourn, “Junie B. Jones” by Barbara Park, “Magic School Bus” by Joanna Cole, “Dog Man” by Dav Pilkey, and “Captain Underpants” by Dav Pilkey.

Where to Find Books?

Books can be found all over the place! Some of the main stores for books include Target, Walmart, Barnes and Nobles. If you are looking for books for a great price, try Half Price Books! Amazon is always an easy option to search and have them sent right to your doorstep! If you are not wanting to buy, don’t forget about the local library!

Buy a Book, Give the Gift of a Lifetime

Books and the ability to read are lifelong gifts. Books improve vocabulary, imagination, and literacy skills that will continue throughout a person’s life. A new adventure awaits behind every book!