Tips for Choosing Out Books

One day while checking out publications in the library, it seemed as every time I had taken a book from the bin in the stroller, two more appeared in its place. Before I knew it, my children and I had checked out thirty-eight books. Only three of the books were really for me, which meant that the additional thirty-five books were some I had selected for the children, as well as some the kids simply tossed into the bin.

When we got home and started reading, I quickly discovered I liked several of the picture books better compared to others. Some had excellent stories but were hindered by inappropriate endings or unnecessary potty words. Others had far too many words to maintain a preschooler's attention, difficult-to-read fonts, or abstract illustrations that lost my son's interest. Many had storylines suited for older kids rather than toddlers. After getting through them, I realized that only a handful were truly appropriate.

Being more deliberate and thoughtful about book selections makes library visits much more rewarding. Here are a few things to consider when picking out books for young children:

Pick Books at a Suitable Level

Young tots like books with plenty of repetition and rhyme. They love predictable text and the opportunity to participate in the reading process. Preschoolers appreciate books with somewhat more advanced storylines featuring one to two paragraphs of reading per page. School-aged kids love books at their personal reading level.

Books generally fall under three levels: those that the child can read alone, those that the child can read with someone, and those that an adult reads to the child. For pre-reading children, flipping through the pages and reading the pictures represents that initial level, while completing predictable sentences fits into the second.

Choose a Variety of Books

While it is natural for children to want to read the same favorite book repeatedly—something that should be encouraged—they should also be introduced to a diverse range of publications. If a child enjoys stories about fairies, try occasional books about pirates or dragons as well. At library visits, assist them in choosing non-fiction books on subjects that interest them. Many informational books are written specifically for young audiences, and children will happily engage with challenging texts if their interest in the topic is strong enough.

Pick Topics That Fascinate the Child

If a child loves princesses, dinosaurs, nature, or animals, look for stories and non-fiction titles featuring those subjects. Before heading out, ask them what topics they want to explore, or check the library's catalog in advance to prepare a list.

Involve the Child in the Selection Process

Show a book to your child and flip through the first few pages, or read a passage out loud together. Many libraries feature comfortable seating areas in the children's section where families can sit and preview books. Children are often eager to say whether they want to take a book home.

Look for Award-Winning Titles

Explore books recognized with awards such as the Caldecott or Theodor Seuss Geisel medals, or consult popular best-seller lists for children's picture books to discover widely loved titles.

Select Books from Familiar Authors

If a child enjoys a particular title, explore other works by the same author or illustrator. Familiar writing styles and consistent artwork often resonate well with young readers.

Pick Books That Reflect Life Experiences

Children enjoy connecting stories to events in their own lives. Books about welcoming a new sibling, starting preschool or kindergarten, or exploring future interests can provide comfort, excitement, and understanding.

Regular trips to the library or bookstore help build a well-rounded collection of reading material at home, supporting dedicated daily reading routines for both independent exploration and shared family time.