Selecting terrific books for your small child will put him on the road to learning, build his vocabulary and object recognition skills, spark his curiosity about the world, and create wonderful memories. As he grows, great book recommendations will help him become passionate about reading and promote school success by developing vocabulary, writing, comprehension, and study skills.

Before buying, keep the below points in mind:

If the book is age-appropriate.
Take note of the age guidelines and learning benefits of your selections. For your baby or toddler, board books constructed of sturdy cardboard and wipeable plastic titles make good choices. Older toddlers and preschoolers can handle paper pages and will delight in larger picture and lift-the-flap books that invite them to lose themselves in the story. The best books will grow with your child. For example, you might buy your 5-year-old a picture book you read to him. At 6, he’s reciting the words to you, and by 8 he’s curled up in a corner reading it alone. For an independent reader, select titles that will challenge him without causing too much frustration.

Ask yourself, What will your child learn from the book recommendations?

Books for babies and preschoolers tend to focus on basic concepts, like ABCs, feelings, or friendship, as well as use repetition, phonics, and other literacy tools to prepare him for reading. For an older child, consider how a book will develop her comprehension and vocabulary, as well as the themes and possibilities she’ll learn through reading.

Will my child find the text and illustrations of these books attractive?

In picture books, look for illustrations that catch your eye and familiar characters that will engage her attention. Your choices should invite her to point, touch, and talk about the pictures.