10 Great Books to Read to Your Kids

The life of a parent is usually so hectic; it is hard to find a moment to spend quality time reading with your children. As a self employed mother, I understand that it is hard to find time to read to a child daily, but reading to a child for just 20 minutes a day can improve a child's language, social, and motor skills. Each night I read one of my favorite children's books to my child. Choosing a book I enjoy, helps me read with enthusiasm, and creates warm memories for my child and me to share in future years. In an effort to help you create memories with your own children, I have created a list of my 10 favorite books to read to my kids.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle- Celebrating its 40 year anniversary in 2010, this story of a hungry caterpillar looking for a meal is one of my favorites. The fun stories and colorful photos make the life of one little caterpillar an exciting adventure.

Mine's the Best by Crosby Bonsall- My first taste of rivalry, and a great book to read to a child when it is time to explain competitiveness. Adults who have not read this book in years will enjoy the background activity that they may have missed as children.

Corduroy by Don Freeman- The perfect book for children who love teddy bears, I adored reading about the teddy bears search for his missing button as a child. It is rare to find a story so sweet, with such an endearing message, that it gives you a tender feeling regardless of your age.

Danny and the Dinosaur by Syd Hoff- Do you have a child who loves dinosaurs? If so, your child will love reading the story of a little boy who meets a live dinosaur during his visit to a museum.

This is the House Where Jack Lives by Joan Heilbroner- The first book I remember reading without any help is the funny tale of a series of events all leading back to one clean little boy. My own child loves the pictures, characters, and the unique way the story unfolds.

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White- To be perfectly honest I saw the animated movie as a child before I read the book. After having my own child, I made sure we read the book together before I introduced her to the movie. The wonderfully written animal characters will delight any child who enjoys animal stories.

Matilda by Roald Dahl- What child doesn't want to read a story about an extremely smart little girl getting the best of the mean adults in her life? I read this book with my now 11 year old nephew once a year, and he is still amused by the ways the characters triumph over the brutal headmistress.

Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder- I am a big fan of all books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, but the story based on her husband's childhood is my personal favorite. It is a great book for fans of the Little House books to read to the little boys in their lives.

The Slave Dancer by Paula Fox- Reading this book in the 5^th grade was my first time being exposed to an account of slavery. This tale of a 14 year old boy who is forced to play drums aboard a slave ship is an eye opening story that is a good choice for pre-teens who want something more serious to read.