Many (if not most) avid readers first developed their love of books in childhood, under the guidance of a bookish parent. When you grow up with books lovingly read to you every day, it’s easy to carry that joy of reading well into adulthood. And, thankfully, really excellent children’s literature is getting published every day. There are so many books that will turn your kids into lifelong readers, meaning your library card is sure to get a workout.
The benefits of reading to your children from an early age are almost too numerous to name. For one thing, it may set up your kid for success later in life. For example, a 2013 study from the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research found that children who are read to regularly seem to develop reading and cognitive skills at a greater rate than children who do not receive this benefit. Spending all those days with books may help your kid have an easier time in school.
With a mix of fresh new picks, as well as classics you probably enjoyed in your own youth, these reads will give your kids a great overview of the many moods literature can inspire. You can go on adventures, share laughter, and make great memories together. Chances are, you and your kids will continue to enjoy reading together for many years to come.
1'The Wonderful Things You Will Be' by Emily Winfield Martin
The sweet rhymes in The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin help express the unconditional love parents feel for their children. It's a lovely homage to your kid's wonderful future.
2'The Snowy Day' by Ezra Jack Keats
Has your child experienced the magic of a first snowfall? You can explore the joys of snowmen and snow angels in Ezra Jack Keats' The Snowy Day, which follows Peter as he explores this fascinating phenomenon. This charming read has been a favorite for many years.
3'Little Blue Truck Leads The Way' by Alice Schertle & Jill McElmurry
Is your kid a mini-motorhead? Then Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle & Jill McElmurry is sure to be a hit. Follow Blue on a fun adventure through a noisy city.
4'The Tale of Peter Rabbit' by Beatrix Potter
The story of Peter Rabbit and his misdeeds in Mr. McGregor's garden is an absolute classic. Generations of children have loved reading The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter, and chances are your kid will also be charmed by this humorous story.
5'We Are In A Book!' by Mo Willems
Best friends Gerald and Piggie break the frame when they realize they exist in a book and talk directly to the reader. Mo Willems' hilarious We Are In A Book! will make your kid laugh as the silly animals try to make the story last as long as possible.
6'Leo The Late Bloomer' by Robert Kraus & Jose Aruego
Although Leo takes a little longer than others to learn how to read, write, draw, and talk, his mother's confidence in his abilities makes the wait worthwhile. Robert Kraus & Jose Aruego's Leo the Late Bloomer is a gorgeously illustrated, reassuring read for any kid.
7'Waiting' by Kevin Henkes
Join five toys as they sit on a windowsill and wait for marvelous things to happen: rain, wind, or the rising moon. In Kevin Henkes' Waiting, these friends learn that waiting can be an interesting activity in itself.
8'You Are My Sunshine' by Jimmie Davis & Caroline Jayne Church
Rhymes are a great way to get kids into reading. Caroline Jayne Church illustrates Jimmie Davis' classic song in You Are My Sunshine.
9'The Midnight Library' by Kazuno Kohara
Reading about books is the most meta way to develop a love of literature. In Kazuno Kohara's The Midnight Library, the little librarian and her three owl assistants stay up all night in this charming story.
