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Sharing a book with your little one can be a delightful and calming routine that offers significant advantages. According to a report by Scholastic Inc., being read to five or more days a week during kindergarten is crucial for predicting whether children ages 6 to 11 will become avid readers. However, not every book captivates a kindergartner’s attention equally. The finest read-aloud books for this age group not only engage them but also encourage discussions (and laughter), creating lasting memories.
We consulted with kindergarten educator Jamie Collins, who shared insights on what to consider when selecting kindergarten-level books and maximizing read-aloud moments.
Meet the Expert
Jamie Collins, M.Ed, is a kindergarten teacher at Maple Grove School District in Illinois. She has recently taken on the role of Summer Enrichment Program Coordinator for her district. Jamie holds certifications in school leadership, special education, and teaching English as a second language (ESL). She earned her Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and her Master’s in Education from National Louis University.
How to Choose the Best Read-Aloud Books for Kindergarten
Let your child’s interests guide your book selection, whether they lean towards fantasy, mystery, or animal stories, Jamie advises. “It’s essential that the child is enthusiastic about the book they are hearing, as this fosters a lifelong love for reading,” she explains.
Another helpful tip? Kids often relate better to stories featuring characters their own age, which is why many of our recommended books include elementary-aged protagonists.
Maximizing Read-Aloud Time
To fully engage your child during reading sessions, Jamie suggests verbally sharing your thoughts to model comprehension. For instance, you might express what you predict will happen next and ask for their opinions too. While it may seem like you’re just using fun voices and asking simple questions, reading aloud ultimately sets a strong example for children. “[It] helps them understand the joy of reading,” Jamie states.
She emphasizes that picture books are particularly effective for kindergarteners since illustrations keep them engaged. Therefore, all our selections feature illustrations, and many kindergartners enjoy chapter books as they allow for deeper character and story exploration.
Ready to find your child’s next favorite read? We’ve compiled a diverse list, from tales about real-life heroes to imaginative adventures!
The Best Read-Aloud Picture Books for Kindergarten
- Fern and Otto: A Story About Two Best Friends
A heartwarming tale about two animal friends searching for story ideas, featuring beautiful illustrations reminiscent of classic fairy tales. This book is sure to be a family favorite! - The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend
A Caldecott Award-winning story that explores the origins of imaginary friends through captivating illustrations. Kids will love following Beekle’s journey to find a friend. - Zog and the Flying Doctors
This empowering sequel introduces Princess Pearl, who defies traditional roles to become a doctor. With whimsical rhymes and vibrant illustrations, it delivers a strong message about following your dreams. - Wild Child
A beautifully illustrated bedtime story about Mother Earth and her struggle to get her Wild Child, Autumn, to sleep. It connects nature’s rhythms with a child’s daily life in a fun, poetic manner. - Mae Among the Stars
Inspired by the true story of astronaut Mae Jemison, this book encourages children to dream big and believe in themselves, featuring stunning, starry illustrations. - Bad Apple: A Tale of Friendship
This charming book addresses bullying through the friendship of an apple and a worm, highlighting the importance of standing up for oneself and valuing true friendships. - The Empty Pot
A tale set in ancient China about a boy named Ping who learns the virtues of honesty and integrity, culminating in a surprising and heartwarming conclusion. - Inky’s Great Escape: The Incredible (and Mostly True) Story of an Octopus Escape
A fun and colorful story about a real-life octopus who escapes from an aquarium, filled with humor and adventure that kids will love.
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Summary
Engaging your child with read-aloud books is essential for fostering a love of reading. By choosing books that align with their interests and including illustrations, you can make reading time enjoyable and memorable. The recommended titles offer a range of themes and messages, making them perfect for kindergarten readers.