How to choose books for your child
The best way to make children love reading books is to read to them a lot. This love can be nurtured from babyhood.
But what kind of book should I read to them?
There are many children’s books available in the market. We often get confused as to which one is suitable for our children.
The following are some good guidelines for selecting books based on the child’s age.
Babies and Toddlers
Babies are attracted to high contrast black and white pictures.
Starting 3 months and above, they are attracted by brightly colored pictures of simple objects.
They are listeners, and respond well to books with simple texts and good rhythms.
Wordless books stimulate them both visually and mentally, and encourage them to create their own stories.
They are delighted with board books and cloth books, which have the virtue of being practically indestructible.
Preschool and Kindergarten
Mother Goose, nursery stories, and other books depicting familiar objects and experiences are enjoyable to children in this age group.
These children like listening to slightly complex texts with good rhythm and effective word repetition.
They are also coordinated enough to have constructive fun with toy-like books that may pop up, move, or provide other astonishments.
Early School Years (Ages 5-8)
A few children may learn to read before they are in the first grade. Most learn during first grade. Many learn even later.
For reading to or with children, select picture books with strong storylines and character development.
For the child who is reading independently, choose a book with a straightforward story employing words that will be familiar from everyday use. Some publishers produce books, generally called "easy readers," which independent readers often enjoy.
Third-graders are often able to handle stories of some complexity. The vocabulary should be relatively familiar while including some challenging words.
A lot of informational books have been published for the early grades. These non-fiction books encourage children to read about topics that interest them and to satisfy their curiosity about complex subjects.
Older Children (Ages 9 and up)
Consider who the child is his or her personality traits and personal preferences when choosing a book.
Make a selection with the child in mind; choose an informational book or a novel in an area of specific interest.
We would like to give credit to readingrockets.com. for the helpfull guidelines.