Kids’ summer reading: Tips for choosing the best books
There are lots of advantages to finding the right books for your kids. It means more “me time” for you and a greater chance your kids will fall in love with reading, which will help them in school.
Mom and bookworm Julie Provencher turned to Caroline Billo, who oversees children’s services at the bookstore Monet, for tips on choosing books for children. This exclusive interview was part of the summer kids’ books contest organized by Alloprof Parents in collaboration with La CLEF.
Where should you start when looking for a book for your child?
Think about your child’s interests (dinosaurs, etc.), age, and personality.
The sheer number of books at a bookstore or library can be overwhelming, so don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions.
Booksellers and librarians can help parents find collections that their child may enjoy.
It’s also important to explain the difference between a library and a bookstore to your child.
- At a library, your child can choose a lot of books.
- At a bookstore, your child needs to know that they cannot take as many books as they can at the library. Agree on the number of books they can get beforehand to avoid getting into arguments at the store.
How important is it that I get books on dinosaurs if that’s what my child likes?
It’s a good idea to use your child’s interests as a starting point, while still looking for books of different genres.
For example, there are different types of dinosaur books you could choose:
- information books,
- magazines,
- storybooks,
- seekandfind books,
- craft and hobby books,
- scifi books,
- prehistoric novels.
Dinosaurs can be found in books of many genres, so why not surprise your child by introducing them to something new!
Is there such a thing as a bad book?
Not really. Of course, it’s important that the theme, topic, and vocabulary be age appropriate. But keep in mind that every book—and every child—is different.
Learning about your child’s interests means taking the time to get to know them better and talk with them.
It’s up to the parent to make books a part of their child’s life—and to not give up even if their child doesn’t like their suggestions. Sometimes you have to be persistent!
What’s your best piece of advice for parents?
Don’t be afraid to let your children take books outside of the house.
For example, allow your child to bring a book with them to daycare, their cousin’s house, or school.
Imagine how proud they’ll be to show off their book. And it just might inspire others to read more!
