Reading with preschoolers is a fun and engaging way to connect, pass time and encourage literacy skills. There are so many books to choose from it can be difficult to know where to start! Some books may say they are for children but are too lengthy or contain plots or themes that don’t engage children. Below we have compiled a tried and true list of preschooler approved favorites for you to enjoy with your child.
Great Books to Read with your Preschooler
Goodnight Moon (By Margaret Wise Brown) – A tried and true tale that many adults have or will have memorized once they have children offers comfort for preschoolers and is a wonderful book to add to your bedtime routine (Plus- it is fun to look for the mouse on each page).
The Pout, Pout Fish (By: Deborah Diesen)– A hilarious rhyming book about a surly fish who just needs a little love. There is some pretty big vocab in this book but the funny story, rhyming words and the pout, pout fish’s mantra will have children actively engaged and “reading” along with you.
The Three Bears OR The Three Little Pigs OR The Three Billy Goats Gruff – These simple, age old stories stand the test of time and keep preschooler’s interest through the years. Three animals + a wrongdoer=A preschooler’s perfect tale . Some of the most captive audiences have been during these reads, waiting to see what happens next to the three furry “good guys.”
The Rabbit Listened (By: Corrie Doerrfeld)– A beautifully illustrated book that tells the story of Taylor, whose carefully constructed block tower came crashing down (a metaphor for any hard thing in life). Many animals came and tried to offer suggestions to Taylor about how to “fix” the problem. Nothing helped, until the rabbit just listened.
Where the Wild Things Are (By: Maurice Sendak)– A fun story about Max, a young boy with a big imagination. Max went to live with the Wild Things when he was angry at his mother. After he spent some time being wild and free, he realized he missed being with the person who loved him most of all and returned home from his adventure. This story speaks to the wild thing in all of us!
Pete The Cat Books (By: James Dean)- Pete The Cat Books are a true crowd pleaser when it comes to preschoolers. With the bright illustrations, catchy words that can often be read or sung and an overall feel good message, Pete the Cat books never get old. After a few reads and by using picture clues you will most likely find your preschooler can “read” these books to you.
No David Books (By: David Shannon)- We all have a little “David” in us and the No David books are fun to read with preschoolers who can often identify with the main character David who, let’s say, struggles with impulse control. These books are great to read with children to talk about rules and expectations because conversations can focus around David’s behavior. There are few words and wonderful illustrations that depict David’s wrongdoings, making it a great book to have your preschooler “read” to you.
We hope you enjoy the books suggested here! Don’t forget when looking for books, always check your local library! Trips to the library are fun and free and it is exciting for your preschooler to be able to pick out and carry their books home. Additionally, libraries often have fun, free programming for children of all ages.
