On our bookshelves for 3-5 year-olds
At this age, as children interact with the world around them and begin socialising, books help them navigate each stage of life – beginning school, making friends, welcoming a sibling, healthy habits etc. Books that work are those with detailed illustrations and/or catchy text. Here are our picks...
Book 5: Biscuit's Neighbourhood by Alyssa Satin Capucilli & Pat Schories
Age: 2-5 years
What this book is about: Join Biscuit, the small yellow puppy on his adventures around the neighbourhood in these 5 'I Can Read' stories.
Why we recommend this book: The Biscuit series books are all that we need for new & first readers: gorgeous illustrations, short clear sentences, an engaging storyline & an adorable puppy as the central character! While children in kindergarten to Grade 1 can try & read on their own, the younger ones can be read aloud to, and will find the pictures most compelling. Make it more fun by having them go 'woof, woof!' like Biscuit!
Book 4: Usborne Look Inside Nature by Carolina Buzio & Minna Lacey
Age: 3-6 years
What this book is about: This informative & beautifully illustrated book is full of birds, animals, tiny bugs, plants, rocks & life around water or in the garden.
Why we recommend this book: Usborne's Look Inside series of books are designed to satisfy and even encourage the piqued curiosity of little ones just getting to discover the world around them. This colourful book with detailed illustrations on each page and lots of flaps to lift will keep little fingers busy. The best part is that there are little questions & facts on the flaps - the details & answers to which can be found underneath. Perfect accompaniment for a day outdoors!
Book 3: Pig the Pug by Aaron Blabey
Age: 3-6 years
What this book is about: A very greedy and selfish dog called Pig, learns his lesson when another friendly dog, Trevor tries to make friends with him.
Why we recommend this book: This story has a really important message for young children who aren't used to sharing. The crisp and rhyming writing style along with hilarious illustrations make it a fast and entertaining read. Besides this book, there are other stories too in this series to be enjoyed with your toddlers!
Book 2: Hiding Heidi by Fiona Woodcock
Age: 3-5 years
What this book is about: Heidi is excellent at playing 'Hide-and-Seek', but discovers that she must embrace the talents of all her friends, and not always do what she is good at.
Why we recommend this book: Breathtakingly illustrated by Fiona Woodcock, this book is a visual treat for kids and grown-ups alike. Children will enjoy hunting for Heidi on each page. The message is apt for kids in this age group, as it is exactly what they may feel at pre-school or the playground.
Book 1: The Very Noisy Night by Diana Hendry & Jane Chapman
Age: 3 - 5 years
What this book is about: When Little Mouse can't go to sleep feeling afraid of noises in the quiet night-time, Big Mouse helps him.
Why we recommend this book: A sweet little tale about Little Mouse and Big Mouse trying to go to sleep. This relatable story helps allay common fears that young children might have at bedtime. Full of lovely illustrations and following a pattern kids will find comforting, this one is a perfect bedtime read with your toddler.