As a regular visitor to our local library and a former elementary school teacher, I’ve always been passionate about children’s literature. It can have an incredible impact on young minds. Reading with kids can spark a lifelong love for learning, and exploring the best children’s book recommendations is just the beginning. The experience of sharing stories with your child brings so many benefits. You will help them foster a sense of imagination and creativity, as well as develop language skills and emotional intelligence.
Don’t miss the part towards the end where we talk about What Every Parent Should Know About Reading with Kids!
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Ms. Laura, our children’s librarian, for nearly a decade. We met shortly after she started working at the library, and our shared experiences and mutual friends turned into a sweet friendship. Ms. Laura is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to all things reading. I love picking her brain about the latest trends as well as talking about timeless classics in children’s literature.
Over a dinner of Chicken Salad Chick, I sat down with Ms. Laura to get her insights on promoting reading habits in young kids. This blog post captures our conversation, where she answers some frequently asked questions about children’s literature and shares her expertise on how to positively impact your child’s reading journey. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply a lover of children’s books, I hope you gain some insight on how you can nurture a love for reading that will last a lifetime.
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From Accidental Librarian to Passionate Advocate: My Journey to Children’s Books
When I asked our children’s librarian, Ms. Laura, how she became involved in this role, she shared a journey that began unexpectedly. Initially, she worked at an academic library, but didn’t plan to stay long-term. However, her passion grew as she began hosting storytimes there at the request of her boss who hoped to support the school’s mission to build community and engage families on campus.
With a background in art, she found joy in planning elaborate storytime events with vibrant decorations. Over time, her initial hesitation turned into a deep commitment to serving her community through children’s literature and programming.
I love stories like this because it affirms the power of discovering one’s true calling and the impact librarians can have on our kids.
Must-Read Authors and Hidden Gems in Children’s Literature
When discussing favorite children’s book authors, Ms. Laura explained how she often distinguishes between authors she personally enjoys and those she recommends to children. After all, once you learn about a child’s interests, your personal favorite books might not align with theirs. With her recommendations, she focuses on a mix of well-known and lesser-known writers. Here are some of her notable mentions:
- Kate DiCamillo: Known for her engaging storytelling, with upcoming works like Orris and Timble.
- Rebecca Stead: Praised for her storytelling ability.
- Jennifer Nielsen and Pam Munoz Ryan: Recommended for fantasy and historical fiction.
- Gary Schmidt: Writes for a variety of ages, though his older works are noted for being more serious.
- Christina Soontornvat: A hidden gem, especially for older readers, with books like Wish in the Dark that incorporate fantasy elements.
- Lois Lowry: A lifelong favorite, cherished for her timeless classics.
She also enjoys magical realism, noting that these books often stay with her long after finishing them.
The Most Common Questions Parents Ask About Reading with Kids
When it comes to reading with children, parents often have some important questions. Our children’s librarian frequently encounters inquiries that revolve around book recommendations and reading strategies for young readers. Here are some of the most common topics that are brought up by parents:
- Book Levels and Points: Many parents ask about the reading levels and points of specific books, seeking guidance on how to match their child’s reading ability with appropriate literature.
- Recommendations for Struggling Readers: Parents often seek advice on books that might engage their struggling readers, looking for titles that can help build confidence and interest in reading.
- Expanding Reading Interests: Some parents express concerns that their child only wants to read a particular type of book or series. They seek recommendations to encourage their child to explore different genres and authors.
Ms. Laura also explained that these questions are often posed by parents of beginning readers, who are eager to support their child’s reading journey. Thankfully, she’s eager to help them, too! Taking the time to talk to someone specifically about reading concerns for your child will allow them to give you some specific feedback for your child. Each reader is different and getting the support of someone like your local librarian can be helpful in their reading journey.
The Library’s Most Popular Books & the Underrated Gems Kids Should Read Too
Our children’s librarian shared that the Dog Man series by Dav Pilkey is undoubtedly the most popular at the library. “Dog Man – no competition,” she said with a laugh. She went on to explain that the series’ humor, fast-paced storytelling, and engaging visual imagery make it a favorite among kids. One of the benefits of allowing your child to read graphic novels is that they often feature higher-level vocabulary, which is made more accessible through illustrations. This visual aid helps children understand complex words and encourages them to explore different reading formats.
The popularity of Dog Man can also be attributed to its ability to serve as a gateway to reading for many children. It fills a niche by providing a fun, accessible format that helps beginning readers transition from picture books to chapter books. The series’ success is a testament to Dav Pilkey’s ability to create engaging stories that resonate with kids. There are some fantastic new options for graphic novels out as the genre has become more and more popular. Be sure to check out this list of Graphic Novels Based on Classic Books.
While many kids gravitate towards series, which offer numerous benefits like fostering a lifelong love for reading and enhancing comprehension skills, stand-alone books often get overlooked. “The majority of kids look for series,” our librarian noted. However, these hidden gems can provide unique storytelling and themes that captivate readers in different ways. Stand-alone books offer a refreshing change of pace, allowing children to explore diverse genres and authors without the commitment of a multi-book series. By incorporating both series and stand-alone books into their reading routine, parents can help their children develop a broader appreciation for literature and create a more varied reading experience.
Library Resources Every Parent Should Know About
Libraries offer many resources beyond storytime that can support children’s reading. Ms. Laura emphasized that “programs aren’t just for the little ones. We have programs for school-age kids, teenagers, and adults.” She highlighted the importance of engaging teenagers, as this age group often experiences a dip in reading activity. Libraries are committed to helping teens stay engaged with reading through various programs and activities.
Our librarian also encouraged parents to reach out if they have specific needs or requests. “You can let us know if there is a way that we can help—if there’s a need we can fulfill. Staff are available to help you connect your kids to books; you’re not bothering us. That’s our job more than anything else.” This personalized support can be invaluable in helping children find books that resonate with them.
Additionally, if you live in Volusia County, she recommended the Port Orange Library’s book clubs for kids in 3rd through 5th grade. These clubs offer a unique experience, allowing children to enjoy the discussions and activities regardless of whether they’ve read the material. “We offer opportunities for kids to connect with one another,” she noted, highlighting the social benefits of these programs. Each library may have its own unique offerings, so it’s worth exploring what’s available at your local library to enhance your child’s reading journey.
How Regular Library Visits Shape Lifelong Readers
Regular visits to the library can have a profound impact on children’s development as readers. Our children’s librarian has witnessed this firsthand. “Having been there for 9 years, I’ve seen kids go from story time age through middle school,” she shared. “The ones who come regularly, I’ve seen them develop as readers. It’s fun to see kids identify as a reader after consistently coming to the library.”
The library’s support plays a significant role in nurturing their growth. “Being involved has shaped kids as readers; we support their reading,” she emphasized. This personalized support goes beyond celebrating children’s reading achievements and interests. “A child will ask for something specific and I’ll set it aside to make sure they get it the next time they are in. We celebrate our readers and the books that they love.” Over time, she observes how children’s interests evolve and expand, reflecting their growing maturity and exploration of different genres and themes.
This ongoing engagement with the library not only fosters a lifelong love for reading but also contributes to broader educational and personal development. Libraries are essential community resources that provide a safe, enriching environment where children can explore, learn, and grow. By regularly visiting the library, children are more likely to develop strong literacy skills, enhanced creativity, and a deeper appreciation for literature, all of which are crucial for academic success and lifelong learning.
Embracing individuality is key, as every child has unique tastes and abilities. By respecting these differences, parents can support their child’s reading journey and help them discover new interests.
What Every Parent Should Know About Reading with Kids
Our children’s librarian shared a vision for how libraries can help children develop a lifelong love for reading. This journey begins with making reading a fun and enjoyable experience. “Let reading be fun. It’s okay to read silly books and not focus on reading for AR points,” she emphasized. By embracing lighter fare and even graphic novels, children can explore different genres and develop a passion for reading that lasts.
Reading Aloud to Older Kids
“Kids are never too old to read to them,” she advised. This is supported by Jim Trelease’s work in The Read Aloud Handbook, which highlights that a child’s oral comprehension level does not match their independent reading comprehension level until around 8th grade. Reading aloud helps bridge this gap by exposing children to more complex texts and enhancing their understanding of language.
The Power of Picture Books
“Kids are never too old for picture books,” she shared. Picture books are an art form that can tell a full story using a limited number of words. There are age-appropriate picture books for older kids that offer rich themes and imagery, making them a valuable addition to any home library.
Modeling Reading Behavior
“Also, let them see you reading, even if you’re not truly reading,” she suggested. This could be anything from a magazine or newspaper to cookbooks. Seeing adults enjoy reading helps children understand its value and encourages them to develop their own reading habits. If you’d like some book recommendations, be sure to check out the 16 Books I Couldn’t Put Down.
Discussing What They Read
“Also, talk to them about what they’re reading, especially with the youngest ones since you are reading to them,” she advised. Engaging in conversations about the books they read helps deepen their understanding and fosters a love for reading by making it a shared experience.
Allowing children to reread favorite books and stopping a book that doesn’t resonate with them are also important. These practices keep reading enjoyable and prevent it from becoming a chore. With these strategies, parents can help their children appreciate the joy of reading.
Creating a Love for Books: What I Hope Every Child Gains from the Library
As our children’s librarian shared her hopes for the children who visit the library, it became clear that her vision extends beyond just providing books. “I want the library to be a place that’s welcoming, safe, and where they feel enjoyed and seen. I want it to be a place that they like to be,” she emphasized.
Her goal is to foster a love for reading that sparks imagination and strengthens children’s interests. She hopes that children will gain a deeper connection to the world, offering “windows into how other people live.” This connection helps children develop empathy and understanding, essential for their personal and academic growth.
Moreover, she aims for her programs to cultivate a love for learning and growth. She provides unique experiences that vary with each program. By engaging with the library, children can explore new ideas and develop their creativity. This approach not only enriches their educational journey, but also helps them become more curious, open-minded, and engaged members of their community.
What Can You Do Next?
If you are looking for tailored children’s book recommendations so you can spend your time reading with kids you love, simply fill out our form to receive a curated list directly to your inbox! Let’s create precious reading moments together. Don’t wait—let’s enrich your child’s reading journey today!
