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Pre-K and kindergarten are exciting times to deepen your child’s love for books. Children at this age are just beginning to learn to read, which makes every book an opportunity for them to have another breakthrough in reading.
In addition, children are going to school for the first time, which means they’re sharpening their social skills and learning new routines.
Because your child is in the process of learning to read for themselves, it’s best to pick books that will hold their interest whether you’re reading to them or they’re reading independently.
Choosing a book for your child
While babies and toddlers enjoy bright colors and interactive books, pre-K and kindergarten aged children appreciate books with slightly more complex plots, and about 1-2 paragraphs of reading a page.
Taking your child to the library or bookstore to pick out books can be a great way to ensure they’re invested and interested in what they’re reading.
When you’re choosing books for your kid, start with books on topics that interest them. If they’re into dinosaurs, they’re sure to be excited about any book featuring cute little dinos.
While it’s great to cater to their interests, books present a great opportunity to introduce them to new interests. If all they can talk about lately is pirates, try a book or two on fairies. Just be prepared for them to talk about nothing but fairies for the next few months.
Books are also a great way to help children process changes in their lives. Choose books that mimic situations your child is already going through, like the birth of a new sibling, or going to school for the first time.
Lastly, choose books that will support their current developmental paths. Books that highlight social skills like sharing and being polite are perfect for this age group as they interact with children at school, and more adults.
Here are the top 5 books for pre-K and kindergarteners in 2021 to get you started. Happy reading!
1.
Wishes
Author/Illustrator: Mượn Thị Văn | Victo Ngai
Get it here This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of one Vietnamese family’s arduous journey to find a new home across the world.
The lyrical text and powerful illustrations will teach your child about what home really means, as well as providing context for a wider range of human experience.
It’s so lovely, you might find yourself reading it yourself.
2.
The Spooky Wheels On The Bus
Author/Illustrator: J. Elizabeth Mills | Ben Mantle
Halloween is fast approaching, and what better way to get your kids into the spoopy season than with an old classic reimagined?
The Spooky Wheels On The Bus is a fun retelling of the popular song “the wheels on the bus”. It’s basically the same, but Halloween-themed!
Because the song is likely known to your kid, they’ll have no problem singing along, but they’re sure to learn some new words that are perfect for the fall time.
3.
Paletero Man
Author/illustrator: Lucky Diaz | Micah Player
Get it here This beautifully illustrated book is great to read on chilly days when all you’re dreaming of is summer. It follows the narrator who is in search of the paleta man, only to find that he has no money to buy the tasty treats.
With plenty of Spanish words peppered throughout, this book is a great example of representation that’s sure to delight your child.
4.
Addy’s Cup of Sugar
Author/illustrator: Jon J. Muth
This beautiful retelling of a Buddhist story of healing follows Addy as she heals from the passing of a friend.
That might not sound like appropriate material for a child, but it makes for the perfect gift for a child who has recently lost someone in their life, like a grandparent. The age appropriate prose and beautiful illustrations will help your child process through their feelings, or develop empathy for those who are going through a loss themselves.
5.
How Do Dinosaurs Show Good Manners?
Author/illustrator: Jane Yolen | Mark Teague
Teaching your kids good manners can be a struggle as they integrate into more social situations.
This kooky book helps kids understand why good manners are important, and what the consequences of bad manners can be. Instead of taking a shaming and disciplinary approach to learning manners, this book takes a playful approach in showing children that having good manners can be fun and pleasant.
Whether your child is already reading for themselves or they still enjoy being read to, these 5 books are sure to delight them.