Simple Fall Read-alouds for Your Littles
Reading aloud to our grandkids is one of life’s great joys. And it’s a wonderful thing for the children, too. Teachers know that children who have been read to a lot are more ready to learn when they arrive at the school door.
And, besides, it’s fun to read with our grandchildren. They love it when we ham it up and read different characters in varied voices. And they like to take their time to talk about each picture and each character’s antics. Having fun with books is the best way to build a strong future reader.
Here are four new books for fall reading fun with children aged two to five:
- Because of an Acorn by Lola M. Schaefer.
This sweet little book by award-winning author Lola M. Schaefer is a child’s first introduction to ecosystems in nature. Because of the acorn a tree grows, then a bird builds a nest and a seed becomes a flower. The pen and ink illustrations highlight the interconnectedness found in natural settings and build understanding of nature’s life cycles.
- Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson
Children will empathize with Fletcher as he worries about the leaves falling off his favorite tree. Before long his beloved tree will be bare! But Fletcher is in for a wonderful surprise when the fall weather turns to winter wonderland and his favorite tree sparkles. Young children will become aware of the changing seasons in nature and the beautiful watercolor illustrations make this a magical read.
- The Very Last Leaf by Stef Wade
This storybook is great for pre-schoolers, but will also work for primary grade children. Lance is a leaf and deals with a familiar childhood problem: He’s afraid he’ll fail when his final exam comes. He is a great student, does all the things a good leaf should, but underneath it all he’s still worried he’ll fail the final test. The story is uplifting as Lance receives his report card and all is well. Gorgeous, full-colored illustrations add to this lovely story about the seasons and cycles in nature.
- Let’s Go Apple Picking, A Little Golden Book by Lori Haskins Houran
This Little Golden Book will draw in young readers with its simple story and cute, cartoon-like illustrations. It tells the story of a Grandpa and a granddaughter on a fun day at the apple farm. They take a hayride, pet farm animals and, best of all, pick juicy, red apples together. The warm, loving relationship of Grandpa and his little granddaughter will invite many comfortable read-aloud times with your own grandchildren.
