Tips for choosing books for kids

From PBS 'Between the Lions'

Here are general tips on choosing appropriate reading material that will keep young readers engaged and enthusiastic about reading. Share these ideas with friends and family members who buy books for your child.

• Younger children enjoy books that use word repetition, rhymes, and predictable text. Look for books with colorful pictures and simple words.
  
  
• For beginning readers, select books that match their skill level.
  
  
• At the library, let your child choose some of the books.
  
  
• If your child has a favorite book, he or she may enjoy other books written by the same author.
  
  
• Choose stories that provide new experiences, such as folktales or books about different countries and cultures.
  
  
• Choose books that match your child's interests, from dinosaurs to dancing. (Most children like books that are funny.)
  
  
• For children who are already reading, select a variety of books - books you can read together, books you can read to your child, and books your child can read to you.
  
  
• Encourage your child to try different kinds of books, such as mysteries, biographies, and other non-fiction.
  
  
• Ask the children's librarian for book suggestions or booklists.
  
  
• Books about events in your child's life (new siblings, moving) can help him or her cope with fears and feelings.
  
  
• Visit the Between the Lions web site (pbskids.org/lions) for more on children and reading.