Summertime is the best time to get outdoors, run in the sprinklers, and eat s’mores and hot dogs on the BBQ. But what do you do on those rainy, cold days that are bound to pop up every once in a while? Grab a book (or two)! Reading is fundamental to a child’s growth. Rainy summer days are the perfect ones to pick a book or two and snuggle up on the couch with your favorite blanket close by.
We’ve selected some of the best reads from ages 0-6. Add these to your cart next time you’re picking up some essentials. You won’t regret it!
Books Your Kids Should Read This Summer
This classic book by Shel Silverstein is full of a beautifully written story that talks a lot about the gift of giving and acceptance. It’s also another book that can be given as a meaningful gift as it strikes a chord with so many ages/audiences.
NBA champion LeBron James does an excellent job inspiring our young children and helps them understand how important it is to do their best, excel in school and be the best they can be. It’s another nighttime story that includes rhyming text and lively illustrations.
This book is for you if you love bright illustrations, hilarious text, and just an amazing story! In a 5-year-old’s life, coloring is an everyday task for most. So this story about missing crayons is so relatable! The Crayons written about get sick of coloring the same things – so they quit! Follow along as the main character does everything he can to get those crayons back in their case.
Are you singing the song in your head? Based on a song that is more than 40 years old, Puff the Magic Dragon is a book that will keep all ages intrigued. You can read it or sing it! Fun for all preschoolers, especially once they’ve memorized it and can join you in reading it (or singing)!
What 5-year-old doesn’t love magical lands and characters? The Gruffalo comes off as a big, scary villain when a little mouse first sets eyes on him – but the mouse changes his feelings as the story goes on. Julia Donaldson’s usual rhyming text accompanied by beautiful illustrations is a match made in heaven.
Gerald is a giraffe who CAN’T dance – can you imagine? His big, lanky legs keep buckling anytime the music comes on! Will he find his moves? This giggle-inducing, laughable book will have your 5-year-old asking to read it night after night!
One of many in a series, this book is so much fun for any young child. Your child will be taught lifelong lessons throughout – including never giving a mouse a cookie! Snuggle up and enjoy this one before a night of sweet dreams.
This iconic story has inspired many different renditions – both on film and in literature. Max (the main character) sets sail in his dreams to a land far, far away, and lands where the Wild Things are. Cuddle up and enjoy this beautiful interpretation of this magical art piece.
Most 5-year-olds can agree – it’s hard to be their age! Follow along while Jamie Lee Curtis talks about the struggles of being a 5 year old and how to make it much easier and a lot more fun. Your kids will laugh the whole time, especially when they hear how many things they relate to.
Once known as a children’s TV show, the Rainbow Fish is a tale about a beautiful fish who learns to make friends in different ways. Not only is the read excellent, but the glitter and foil stamping on every page is eye-catching as well!
These (and so many more) fun and kid-friendly books need to be on your summer must-read list! Make sure you choose a topic that will keep your child engaged and listening. Also, try to choose a book close to or around your child’s age range to ensure a proper understanding of what’s going on in the book. From fairytales and friends to animals and trucks — your kids will love going on a literary adventure with you this summer!
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