The other half of the successful reading equation is to choose books that appeal to your child and his/her temperament, stage of life, mood, and development. Early childhood, in general, is a time when children learn an amazing number of new skills and face new situations in life. There are books for every occasion and child, and about almost any issue: death, new sibling, safety, child care, making friends, imaginary friends, starting school, travel, bad moods, good moods, feelings, cooperation, going to the hospital, doctor, or dentist, getting along with siblings, sleep, even swearing. Check out ELBERT'S BAD WORD by Audrey Wood and others in "Books to Help Kids Grow and Develop," here on FamilyFun.
Have you ever read a phrase and thought, "That's what I have been trying to say all along."? Children's books can help adults say what they mean, but perhaps haven't found the words for yet. Consider STAND TALL, MOLLY LOU MELON by Patty Lovell and illustrated by David Catrow. Poor Molly Lou was born with many undesirable traits, including a voice that sounds like a bullfrog's, but it doesn't matter because her grandmother teaches her to turn adversity into a desirable thing. "Sing out clear and strong and the world will cry tears of joy."
So, how should you choose books for kids? Select a wide variety of books that you like, that your child will like, that help a child learn more about the world, and that help you say what you mean. Look for books that help children feel good about themselves, feel more powerful, discover new capabilities, get the support that comes from knowing that there are many other kids in the same situation or with the same feelings, and that help explain the meaning of values, traditions, family, community, and more. If this sounds like a tall order, don't worry--there are so many great books out there, you'll soon be tripping over them, if you're not already.
