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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Preschool Literature (3 - 6 yr)
Attitudes toward reading during the preschool years are of
indelible importance in laying the foundation for future
reading activities in school. Reading aloud to your child
is invaluable: your preschooler acquires reading skills
while watching you read from left to right and top to bottom
and begins to associate printed symbols with meaningful
words. Enjoyment of literature leads preschoolers to await
eagerly the time that they, too, will be able to extract the
"magic" from the printed word.
Do not expect your young child to sit quietly without
interruption while you read a story aloud; young children
love to participate directly. (They become better listeners
around the age of five years.)
Children experience new challenges and conflicts during the
preschool years, and specific fears and worries may surface.
Fears of the dark, being left alone, attacks by real or
imaginary creatures, and feelings of anger or hostility may
become apparent during this time. Books and stories that
use a light, usually humorous, touch in dealing with these
fears and feelings are helpful. Hearing about another's
experience with a similar conflict is reassuring. Children
this age crave happy, clear-cut endings.
During these years, books provide a simple introduction to
concepts like size, shape, and color. Preschoolers'
preoccupation with the "whys" of the world creates interest
in books and stories about the weather, nature, animal life,
and transportation. Although interested in books with new
concepts and new words, children this age also enjoy
returning to old favorites time and time again.
Young children relish stories that describe familiar
adventures like a trip to the zoo, circus, or fire station.
They also delight in stories about everyday family life and
activities with playmates. Older preschoolers are thrilled
by books and stories that appeal to their sense of humor and
exaggeration.
When selecting books for children in the preschool stage,
look for:
- one main character
- recognizable people, animals, objects
- simple sentences and storyline
- action rather than description
- plenty of clear, colorful pictures
- playful language and pleasing rhythm
For more information see:
Importance of Books
Suggested Reading Activities
Using Books to Help Children Cope
Children's Books Listed by Subject
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