Entering the children’s section of a book store or library can be overwhelming, especially if you have your toddler in tow. There are wonderful books for toddlers, but there are also not so great books cluttering the shelves.
As far as I am concerned, my criteria for toddler books includes the following. First the book needs to be easy to read. Meaning, I should be able to read while sleep-deprived. Secondly, the book needs to hold my toddlers attention. This so-called attention span can be brief, so a book should have engaging illustrations and an equally engaging plot. For a toddler this could mean something as simple as finding where the kitten is hiding or what the caterpillar will eat next.
The curiosity of kids in the 1 to 3 year old age range is ever-evolving. They are hungry to explore and want to touch and feel all they can. Toddlers also want to know, “Why?” so choosing books that help fulfill their desires is key to keeping their attention. The following books may already be familiar to you, if so you made great choices!
Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss
This fun book does more than just produce laughter. The classic rhyming style of Dr. Seuss books combined with silly illustrations and a few nonsense words actually helps children develop the skills needed to read on their own.
One Fish Two Fish, Red Fish Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss
This is another toddler favorite that is easy for tired moms to read. Since it is a classic, many moms may already have much of the book memorized!
But Where is the Green Parrot? Thomas & Wanda Zacharias
Books that encourage a toddler’s involvement are always enjoyable. Each page of this intriguing book is full of detailed, colorful pictures that serve to hide the green parrot. When your toddler discovers it they will feel nice and clever.
Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman
My two boys loved this book when they were toddlers. Not only is the simple story engaging, a baby bird lost his mother, the repetition allows them to quickly read along.
Mr. Grumpy’s Outing by John Burningham
Many toddlers love books featuring animals, and this one delivers with a twist. In this book Mr. Grumpy takes a trip along the river in his boat. When he invites all his animal friends, kids love knowing that they can see the inevitable disaster.
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
I cannot seem to get through this adorable book without my eyes threatening to tear up. Kids won’t have the same problem, but they will feel you love as you read this perfect little bedtime story.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
A classic tale that is enjoyable for young children. The bold illustrations and familiar storyline can be read again and again further emphasizing counting and days of the week. Not all books need to be overtly educational, but this one fits the bill without being pushy.
These and many more can be found at your local library. Ask the children’s librarian for help is you are stumped, or want to find similar stories.
Start at the library, but once you discover your child’s favorites it is a good idea to invest in copies of your own. Many children get “stuck” on a book and want to hear it read over and over. There is nothing wrong with this. Rituals are important at this age when everything is so new, and potentially frightening.