Books to help tots understand the world
You’ve probably heard about the benefits of reading to children in the early years, but might not know when to start, or what to read.
Here, Alessandra – founder of PeekaBook the Library – gives her top suggestions for books that can help babies and toddlers understand the big, new world around them.
Clap hands written by Helen Oxenbury – Age 6 months +
A series of simple, rhyming verses encourages young children to engage in activities such as clapping hands, patting knees, and tapping toes. The bright and colorful illustrations depict diverse groups of children and animals participating in the activities, creating a sense of inclusivity and fun.
The Little Duckling Who Wouldn’t Get Wet, by Gek Tessaro – Age 12 months +
A rhyming tale for the little ones, capable of making parents reflect on respecting their children’s timelines. This book, another award recipient from “Nati per Leggere” in 2011, narrates the story of a duckling who refuses to dive into the water despite the insistence of other animals: a turkey, a dog, a cat, a duck, not even a wolf can convince her to take the plunge. On the contrary, she cleverly distances them and takes a bath only when she feels it’s the right moment. The simple and colorful illustrations are perfect for the first year of life.
Press Here, by Herve Tullet – Age 12 months +
Press Here is a simple but special interactive book that young children love. Don’t be fooled by the seemingly basic cover; it hides a treasure that responds to the physical actions of children. Follow the instructions and press, rub, blow, shake, and turn the pages one after another. It’s a delightful and entertaining experience for little ones, guaranteed to bring smiles!
From Head to Toe / by Eric Carle – Age 2 years +
Carle’s goal has always been to make his books interactive, promoting the physical involvement of children who, as we know, love movement. In this book, animals and children engage in an imitation game, exploring different parts of the body—a helpful sequence to reinforce the child’s self-awareness and movement capabilities.
The message conveyed by the text, “Yes! I can do it!” promotes self-esteem and encourages autonomy.
Peek-a-Poo What’s in Your Diaper?, by Guido van Genechten – Age: 18 months +
Sensory books are an excellent resource for children as they develop their sense of touch. In addition to fabric books with inserts in different materials, classic pop-up books are a must-have in every childhood library. Peek-a-Poo What’s in Your Diaper tells the story of a curious little mouse who checks all his friends’ diapers. Through lifting flaps on each page, the book humorously addresses the topic of potty training.
The Grotlyn, by Benji Davies – Age 3 years +
From the author of Storm Whale, this book tackles the delicate topic of nighttime fears of darkness and unusual noises. Simple rhyming text and impactful images help children work through fears. In a dark and rainy English city, everyone’s scared of the arrival of the Grotlyn, a mysterious character who steals objects without being seen but, through time, we find that fears comes from what is unknown and fades away with understanding.