As an expert in children’s books, I pride myself on finding the perfect book for your child’s social and emotional growth, your classroom curriculum or your library shelf. I have a lot of books listed on the JJ List page that I feel are a great addition to anyone’s children’s book library, but what makes a book a great learning tool for the littles? Well, I’m glad you asked! Here are a few things to look for.
Book layout: It’s important to say that the simpler the page is to look at, the easier it will be for a child to visually comprehend what is being said. What I mean by this is that if there is too much happening on the page visually, a child spends too much time trying match what is happening on the page to what is being said. I found that when reading aloud to the littles I have to point to each part of the illustrations as I read along so they could follow along. Simply matching the dialogue to the illustrations on a single page is an important component to the early reading experience.
Characters: It’s important that a child identifies with the character, even if the character is an animal or insect (hello Bea Bee). A child needs to connect with the story through shared experiences, feelings and environment. Yes, a character can be fun, fantasy, make believe, but it also must have a way children can connect with the world around them.
Story: The story does not need to long or complex. Again, simple is the key word. Children love stories and even short stories can be fun and engaging. Like the character, the story must connect with the child. The story is important for shared experiences. Children learn from their environment, so it’s important to include places, people (animals, things) that children can relate to. What makes the story exciting, is the when children see themselves in the character or the story, or when they recognize they feel the same feelings the character does (happy, sad, tired..). These are things that help children learn and develop skills to navigate the social and emotional development needed at an early age.
revisit! There is a reason children love to hear stories over and over again. It’s the connection! There is something in the story that speaks to the heart of the child. Don’t be afraid to read the book until the pages fall out. A child will carry that book in their heart wherever they go!
In my next post, I will share ideas on ways to incorporate a children’s book into a academic learning experience!
JJ BRETT 