
Books for 2 to 3 year olds: What to look for
Identifying books for 2 to 3 year olds is a great first step to support their growing language and literacy development. Our friends at Zero to Three have a few suggestions for busy families: read while you are waiting for appointments, before bed, or during bath time; sing or tell your child stories as you drive in the car; keep books within easy reach for children to get by themselves; keep some books in the car as well. Making these changes will help build their vocabulary and listening skills and will help you bond with your child.
1. Llama Llama Red Pajama
If your toddler is putting up a fight during bedtime because they want you near, Llama Llama Red Pajama is the perfect book to start with. What could be more comforting to a little one than knowing that a llama feels the same way they do?!
2. Roar! Roar! I’m a Dinosaur!
Toddlers can use their fingers to make dinosaur’s jaws chomp and make the tail swoosh. Great way to learn about lesser known dinosaurs and to satisfy the need of a dinosaur-obsessed toddler. This tops the list as one of the best books for 2 to 3 year olds.
3. In My Ocean
Your child will love poking their finger through the pages pretending to be a dolphin! They’ll get to experience life below the surface! The illustrations are simply stunning.
4. Piggy Pie Po
This fun rhyming book follows the adventures of a lovable pig who gets into everything (and I mean everything)! This is one of my favorite books for 2 to 3 year olds.
5. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Bell
If you thought the old lady who swallowed a fly was bit odd, image meeting a lady who swallowed a bell (and a sleigh)! A delightful book to read in December.
6. The Little Dump Truck
This dump truck is small but mighty! This rhyming book illustrates the day in the life of a dump truck who is proud of the job he does.
7. 1 Grumpy Bruce
Bruce the Bear is a bit grumpy, despite many attempts by friends who ‘bring the party’. The illustrations are fantastic and most adults will laugh because they have probably met a Grumpy Bruce at some point in their lives.
8. Hooray for Hat!
This book focuses on a group of animals cheering up their sad friends. They do everything in their power to make them feel happy…and then they all celebrate together! If you’ve ever had a toddler who woke up on the wrong side of the bed, and you spent time trying to turn that frown upside down (into a smile), you’ll be able to relate. One of the must-read books for 2 to 3 year olds.
Best books for younger toddlers
Check out the best books for ages 12-18 months; 18-24 months
Best books for babies
Check out the best books for ages 0-6 months; 6-12 months
Best books for preschoolers
Check out the best books for preschoolers ages 3-4 years old including holiday books
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