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.
- Choose age-appropriate books.
- Find Chapter Books with Pictures
- Choose chapter books that are a series
- Take your child to the library or bookstore to find books
- Keep on reading despite the book being too hard or too easy
- Try reading a chapter book out loud
- Make a Designated Time every day for reading
- Reward your child for reading
- Let your child read what they choose
- Reading is Great
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.