How to Choose Stories for Children

Children love stories! They simply can't resist listening to stories especially during their free time or before they go to bed. Stories help awaken the imagination of children and teach them good manners and right conduct. In addition, stories expose them to varied experiences and broaden their vocabulary at the same time.

Parents, especially mothers, often find difficulty with regard to choosing stories for their children. With all the story books out in the market today, one is easily confused with which to buy. Here are some considerations on how to choose stories for children.

Know your child's reading interest

Do fairy tales appeal to your child? Or does he or she find stories of adventure and mystery more indulging? Before you buy a book for your son or daughter, familiarize yourself with his or her reading interests. Ask your child what kinds of stories does he or she like best? This way, you don't go on buying the wrong book and disappoint your child.

Look for appropriate stories
It is crucial to read stories to children which are appropriate for them. If you're child is only three years old, don't burden him by reading stories for older children. Kids have very short attention span and they are easily distracted too. Choose a book that suits your child's age and one which he can easily relates to.

Evaluate the reading material
Teachers are not the only ones who have to criticize books for their pupils but parents should also do the same for their children at home. Read the story first before reading it to your children. Try to find out if the story line does not expose your child to violence, sexuality, or discrimination. Stories for children should be wholesome and entertaining.

Go for trade books
Fairytales and nursery rhymes have been around for quite a long time already. Although they have that lasting appeal to children, parents should try other reading materials as well. Trade books offer varied real-life stories and experiences for children. In addition, they present stories to children in a more natural way because the plots and settings are familiar to them. Moreover, they also provide children with lessons on values which they can apply in their everyday lives.

Consider the illustrations
You can easily attract your child's attention when you read stories accompanied
with pictures. Print alone does not appeal to children but once you read stories with pictures, you'll have their eyes and ears on you. Story books with colorful and realistic illustrations can help children comprehend and imagine what are happening in the story.

It is indeed very important to know how to choose stories for children. So before you buy or read a story to your kids make sure you know their reading interests, see if the story is appropriate for their age, evaluate the story yourself, try different reading materials, and look for well-illustrated books.