As aptly said by English philosopher Sir Francis Bacon, “Reading maketh a full man….”, there is no substitute to reading a good book for all age groups. Books offer a peek into realms you might never have a chance to explore in real life and besides offering a healthy dose of wisdom, also exercise your imagination in their own unique ways. It is also believed that children who read fiction grow up to be more empathetic and forge better interpersonal and social bonds as compared to their peers who stay away from reading.

So what’s the right age to start reading? Well, it’s never too early – you could start reading to your kids as soon as they near their second-year milestone. And with so many interesting books for toddlers available today, be prepared to be spoilt for choice!
Here’s a low down on some of the all-time favourite books for toddlers:

1. We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

By Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury (1989)

The book takes you on a journey with a family as they set off on an imaginary bear hunt but instead, get chased back home by a real one. The musical language delights the toddler tongue with its hooo wooo, squelch squerch and swishy swashy, besides the addictive chanting rhythms. Oxenbury’s vibrant water colours unfailingly captivates the toddler eyes!

2. The Very Hungry Caterpillar

By Eric Carle (1969)

The book explains the life cycle of a butterfly in very simple language, the focus being mostly on vibrant illustrations, just as the cherubs love them! Your toddler will be delighted to follow the journey of a butterfly from the egg till it dons its pretty wings. She will gladly learn to colour, count, and the basics of nature through this brilliantly illustrated book.

3. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?

By Bill Martin, Jr. (1967)

The text revolves around simple questions and answers that toddlers can easily grasp. A blue horse, green frog, and yellow duck are some of the unforgettable animals your baby will spot in this colourful book illustrated by Eric Carle. A captivating book for todders that inspires them to read on their own!

4. Where the Wild Things Are

By Maurice Sendak (1963)

When his mother reprimands him after mischief, little Max becomes angry with her and out of his anger, emerges monsters who are completely under his control. So how does Max lead his pack of monster friends? Grab a copy of this book to follow two-year-old Max in his subconscious journey to the place where wild things are hidden!

5. Goodnight Moon

By Margaret Wise Brown (1947)

A favourite among generations of readers and listeners, this classic of children’s literature makes for a perfect bed time read with its lyrical text and gentle, soothing illustrations. Since it was first published in 1947, Harper Collins has sold almost 14 million copies of this book.

6. Five Minutes Peace

By Jill Murphy (1986)

An amusing story about the elephant family which every mom can relate to and every child will love listening to, this book portrays the almost comical situation of every child and mother, who hopes against hope for her five minutes of peace.

7. Willy the Wimp

By Anthony Browne (1984)

Willy wouldn’t hurt a fly and the suburban gorillas call him Willy the Wimp. One day, Willy answers a body-building advert … with comical results! An absolute delightful read for your toddler (and you)!

8. Corduroy

By Don Freeman (1968)

Follow Corduroy, the teddy, in his brave adventure as he finds himself exploring the department store all by himself. Any kid who has ever dreamed of having a department store all to himself will absolutely love this story!

9. There’s a Wocket in My Pocket

By Dr. Seuss (1974)

Part of the second stage in HarperCollins major Dr. Seuss rebrand programme, this hilarious book featuring crazy crackpot creatures, from wockets in pockets to waskets in baskets, helps young children set off on the road to reading.

10. The Tiger Who Came to Tea

By Judith Kerr (1968)

Just when Sophie and her Mother are having tea in the kitchen, in walks a hungry tiger who asks to stay for tea. What happens next? Read to find out! Kerr’s captivating illustrations and simple, endearing story make this a perfect book for cuddle-time reading.

Also Read:Nurturing independent play in toddler