There is nothing quite like a fun read aloud for a child’s development. By building connections between speech and print, your child is able to learn about the world the way they naturally do, using sounds, sights, and touch to build an understanding of new concepts. Reading aloud daily provides many benefits, including:
- Developing strong vocabularies
- Understanding sentence structures of varying complexity
- Increasing attention span
- Having fun while stimulating their imaginations
If you’re ready to introduce new material to your daily reading routine, check out one of the following options. It could become your little one’s new favorite!
The Maggie B
Written by Irene Haas, this book is best for children aged four through eight. If your child loves adventure, read them this sweet story about Maggie, whose journey on a ship runs into various challenges within moments of departure.
Lost and Found
This story is one of four in the Boy Series, written by Oliver Jeffers. Follow along as a boy tries to return a penguin home after he turns up on his doorstep. They row along in a rowboat, tell jokes, and become friends. Little ones aged three- to seven-years-old will enjoy the watercolor illustrations and charming story of friendship.
Kindergarten Rocks!
Is your little one a bit nervous about her first day of kindergarten? This book might just be the perfect summer primer. Follow along as Dexter overcomes his nerves and learns all about kindergarten. Author Katie Davis’ other works include Mabel the Tooth Fairy, I Hate to Go to Bed!, and Scared Stiff.
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Learn your ABC’s and experiment with different rhythms with this book by Bill Martin Jr and John Archambault. The vivid illustrations use tropical colors and movement to bring the story to life. The book is best for one- to five-year-olds, making this choice an excellent bridge book between preschool and kindergarten. Try clapping, shaking instruments, waving scarves, and other fun movements with each time the book returns to the title words, “chicka chicka boom boom!” Another fun variation is for the kids to stand as the letter climb the tree and then sit down on the ground when the reader says “boom boom!”
Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse
Little Lilly has that feeling that we all know: when you have a new toy or item and you just can’t wait to show it off! She quickly learns that school is not the best place to share her new purse filled with jingly-jangly coins when her teacher confiscates it for the day. Follow along as she learns how to make amends after an emotional outburst. Author Kevin Henkes wrote two previous books in this series, Chester’s Way and Julius, the Baby of the World.
Tap the Magic Tree
Christie Matheson’s innovative book has readers interact with the Magic Tree to make leaves emerge, blossoms grow, apples ripen, and more! Your little reader will learn about the changing seasons while combing tactile and auditory skills to drive the plot forward. This book is best for children aged four- to eight-years-old; if you find that this book is popular in your household, check out the author’s second work, Touch the Brightest Star.
Dragons Love Tacos
For a silly and fun story, this explanation of dragons’ affection for a certain food by Adam Rubin is a top-notch option. Follow along as friendly dragons share their love of tacos of all types–just don’t add any hot salsa! Pair this read along with a cooking activity in the kitchen; your child can help with setting up a taco bar and adding their favorites to their plate.
Regardless of which book you select, reading aloud is a great way to bond, develop your child’s vocabulary, and have fun. Establish a daily reading routine with your child to support their exploration of the written word.
