10 Tips for Choosing Chapter Books for Kids

Choosing chapter books for kids does not have to be difficult. Here’s a few surefire tips to get you started on your quest for great chapter books for kids of any age. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to choosing great books for your kids!

Choose books with themes and characters your child is interested in.

For example: If your child is interested in dinosaurs, pick a dinosaur themed chapter book. If she needs a good laugh, choose a funny book. This is easier than it might sound because there are so many great books to choose from on Amazon and elsewhere. Once you have a theme in mind, be sure to read the reviews of any books you find. Listen to your child and find out what themes she is interested in.

Choose age-appropriate books.

For example: If your child is 6 years old, look for chapter books for kids around that age. Sometimes, it is hard to find books in the 6 year old category, so look for the 7 year old category and go with it. If your child is a little bit older, say 9 years old, look for chapter books for kids around that age range. Again, you want to be aware if your child is reading at a higher level than age-appropriate. You can always start with a lower reading level and work your way up.

Find Chapter Books with Pictures

While the idea of chapter books is to get away from an overload of pictures and introduce young readers to more words, that doesn’t mean the book should have no pictures. A good idea for chapter books for kids is to find chapter books with pictures. This will help your child keep the characters and plot line in order as he reads along. It can also make the book more interesting to read!

Choose chapter books that are a series

Finding a chapter book series that your kid enjoys is a great way to keep them reading. Many chapter books for kids are highly enjoyed and continue being published as a series. The recurring characters and themes can be a great way for a child to develop and grow as a reader.

Take your child to the library or bookstore to find books

Sometimes, the best way to find a book that your child will love is to look at them together. Visit the library or a bookstore together. Look through different book categories and see what looks interesting to both of you. Let your child help pick the books and let them choose the one they love the most.

Keep on reading despite the book being too hard or too easy

One of the best ways to keep a child interested in reading is to keep on trying even when the book is too hard or too easy. If your child picks a book that is too easy, it can be a good way to encourage them to try a harder book. If the book is too difficult, be positive and encourage your child that they are ready for the next book. It is better to encourage kids to try books that are too hard or too easy than to discourage them from reading altogether.

Try reading a chapter book out loud

Sometimes, it is easier to read a chapter book out loud than to read it silently. This is especially true for young kids. Reading out loud is a great way to read the book in a more traditional format, but it can also be a great way to encourage your child to read. If you read out loud to them, they can follow along silently and see how the words are put together.

Make a Designated Time every day for reading

Reading should be a part of every child’s daily routine. Make a daily time where your child is expected to read. This can be after they complete their homework or chores, or it can be a set time every day. The more your child reads, the better reader they will become.

Reward your child for reading

Give your child a reward for reading their book. They might get a sticker or a special treat. The reason for this is so your child will see the beauty of reading and learn to value it. It’s also a good way to show your child that reading is important and that you respect it.

Let your child read what they choose

Sometimes, your child will gravitate towards certain genres of books and enjoy them. This is a good thing because it means that your child has a clear interest in the subject. Let them explore those books and build on their interests. That way, it is more likely that they will continue to read in that genre.

Reading is Great

Reading is one of the greatest gifts we can give our children. It not only allows them to explore their own imaginations and create new worlds for themselves, but it also allows them to understand language, expand their vocabulary, and gain new skills.

Reading is a lifelong pursuit and let’s face it, kids aren’t really kids for very long. Reading is a great way to spend quality time with your child and build meaningful memories.

Choosing chapter books for kids can be a challenge, but with a little bit of research and preparation, you’ll be able to find the perfect book for your child. Whether you’re looking for a book to read to them at bedtime or looking for a great gift idea, there is something for everyone.

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Kenny Kings

Kenny Kings is a chapter book author who is helping Paul Bellow fill the Hoosier Chapter Books blog with great content. You can find out more about Kenny Kings on the Kenny Kings bio page. Kenny Kings does not have children of his own, but he has more than enough nieces and nephews. With the help of the editorial team, he's been contributing to our blogging efforts to help families everywhere while promoting our chapter books. You can contact him at kennykings@hoosierchapterbooks.com.