Reading
Different Types of Books
Board books, picture books, rhyming books and early readers all do something different. Here's how to choose.
Not every children's book does the same job. Matching the book to the child's stage makes reading time easier for both of you.
Board books are built for the youngest hands. Thick pages survive chewing and grabbing, and the simple images give babies something to point at long before they understand the words.
Picture books carry a story. Read them slowly, stop to talk about what's happening, and let your child fill in what comes next.
Rhyming books train the ear. The repetition and rhythm help children hear the individual sounds inside words, which is groundwork for reading later on.
Early readers use short, predictable sentences so a child can start recognising words on their own. Expect a lot of rereading of the same favorite, and that repetition is the point.
The best book is usually the one your child asks for again. Follow their interest and keep it short enough that reading stays a pleasure.