As I embarked on my homeschooling journey with my bubbly toddler, I kept hearing the same advice from seasoned homeschool moms: cherish each moment because time goes by fast, don’t rush formal lessons, and read as many rich and living books as possible to your child.
These gems of wisdom have stayed with me and continue to inform my daily routine.
Ten years later, I am experiencing the rewards of following that advice and am echoing that same advice to the young moms in my life.
Especially the advice about reading aloud to your children as early and often as possible.

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Why Children Need Wholesome Picture Books
As parents and teachers, we know how important it is to read to our kiddos. But with so many books, it can be tough to know where to start.
Fortunately, I’ve done the legwork and rounded up the best of the best when it comes to reading aloud to early elementary-aged children.
From timeless classics like Where the Wild Things Are and The Very Hungry Caterpillar to newer favorites like Mama Panya’s Pancakes, these books are sure to captivate and delight your little ones.
And don’t worry – I’ve included plenty of options for both boys and girls and books that are perfect for bedtime, storytime, lunchtime, or anytime.
Not only are these books entertaining, but reading aloud also provides many developmental benefits for your child. Improving vocabulary, comprehension, and literacy skills are just a few perks.
Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your kiddo and create cherished memories.
The Best Picture Books for Kindergarteners
- The Tale of Peter Rabbit
- The Little Red Hen
- Johnny Appleseed
- Blueberries for Sal
- Mr. Pine’s Purple House
- Mama Panya’s Pancakes
- Cranberry Thanksgiving
- A Pair of Red Clogs
- How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World
- Katie and the Mona Lisa
- Katie and the Sunflowers
- Chester the Worldly Pig
- A Mango in the Hand
- A Grain of Rice
- The Story of Ferdinand
- Corduroy
- We’re Going on a Bear Hunt
- Make Way for Ducklings
- Katy No Pocket
- Caps for Sale
- The Story About Ping
- Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel
- Katy and the Big Snow
- Madeline
- Stone Soup
- Lentil
- The Bee Tree
- Where the Wild Things Are
- The Children’s Book of Virtues
- The Velveteen Rabit
- Miss Rumphius
- Mr. Gumpy’s Motor Car

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