Reading is a daily occurrence in the Kilian household. From the moment my son could hold open his eyes I was reading books to him or around him! I have this vision of us quietly sitting on the porch after dinner, reading books together before bed. That obviously looks very different as he gets older and I feel pretty good that we are on the right track!
The introduction of reading at an early age is wonderful for child development. Exposure to language, word/sentence rhythm, and syllables, the opportunity to repeat words as you read them, and the education content of the books are just a few of many advantages.
For my son’s first birthday last year, I got him one of the book box subscriptions that send you four books each month based upon their birthdate. Most of them have been really good but like every toddler mom. some of them start to get old… especially by the 20th time you’ve read it!
Here are a few of our favorite books
Roaring Rockets by Tony Mitton
Every little boy and girl seems to love outer space and mine is no different. With blast off pictures, exclamatory central (wow!), and some counting (3, 2, 1 blast off!) your little one might run around with a towel over his head as a moon suit shouting numbers in no particular order after reading this fun book.
Vegetables in Underwear by Jared Chapman
All vegetables wear underwear…didn’t you know…except for babies…cause they wear diapers! This toddler board book is a great introduction to potty training without being in your face aggressive about it. Sparking curiosity to underwear and highlighting “big vegetables” vs “vegetable babies” is a great way to get your little one to start thinking about trying the potty. Next stop – Target for some undies (that vegetables haven’t worn!)
Counting with Barefoot Critters by Teagan White
Now this is one of my favorites. Counting in numbers 1 – 12, this board book is a great opportunity to introduce another language or accent to make reading time more fun. I personally prefer a French accent and “un, deux, trois des bestioles de pieds nus!” But try a Russian accent or a German one for some real giggles in counting fun!
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you see? By Bill Martin & Eric Carle
Personally, I am not a fan of the artistry in this book but its hands down a classic toddler board book. I think it may be all the pocket windows that make it exciting because it’s certainly not the blue horse or purple cat that’s weirdly attractive to little people.
Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney
If it is a llama in pajamas then it’s a hit with all the toddlers. A classic bedtime story about a baby llama who won’t stay in bed seems like #momlife in a toddler story. I think she is a southern momma too, with her apron and pearls to boot.
