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A recent study from Rutgers University says toddlers who are read aloud behave better. That’s one benefit all parents can agree on—not to mention that reading together helps create a special bond with your child and introduces them to a lifetime love of reading. If you need some suggestions on great stories to read aloud, try these ten awesome, illustrated books for toddlers.
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1 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
“Tomorrow Most Likely” by Dave Eggers
Teach your toddler about all the beautiful possibilities of tomorrow with this sweet and simple book by Dave Eggers and illustrated by Lane Smith, famous for classic kids’ reads like The Stinky Cheeseman. The images are full of rich color and texture that will keep your little one engaged while you read aloud.
2 of 10 Image Credits: Barnes and Noble
“So Many Sounds” by Tim McCanna
Sounds are one of the most intriguing parts of your toddler’s world. Reading this rhyming book to your children will get them thinking and learning about all of the cool and crazy noises around them. This bright, interactive book is sure to bring a smile to your child’s face.
3 of 10 Image Credits: Target
“High Five” by Adam Rubin
Engage your little one in a silly high-fiving competition with this lively, interactive book. High Five is written by Adam Rubin and illustrated by Daniel Salmieri, the creators of the bestselling children's book Dragons Love Tacos. High Five is another hit, which is sure to be read time and time again.
4 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
“Say Zoop!” By Herve Tullet
Say Zoop! isn’t a quiet book by any means! From Herve Tullet, the bestselling author of interactive children’s books like Press Here, Say Zoop! is sure to get your toddler excited about being read to.
5 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
“There are No Bears in This Bakery” by Julia Sarcone-Roach
This beautifully illustrated book is a fun read for toddlers and parents alike. A tough-talking cat named Muffin is out to protect the Little Bear Bakery, but Muffin might be surprised at what he finds on this particular night.
6 of 10 Image Credits: Barnes and Noble
“How to Babysit a Grandpa” by Jean Reagan
This sweet and silly book shares the story of a little one spending time with his grandpa. For toddlers who adore their grandparents—or are being read to by grandparents—this is the perfect book to bond over.
7 of 10 Image Credits: Walmart
“The Adventures of Beekle The Unimaginary Friend” by Dan Santat
Imaginary friends could be out there waiting to be found and named by their new child friends—or at least that’s the premise of this heartwarming children’s book. One imaginary friend, tired of waiting, sets out to find a kid to call a friend of his own. This book is sure to get your toddler’s creative wheels turning.
8 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
“Lubna and Pebble” by Wendy Meddour
This incredibly touching story is about Lubna and her best friend, a pebble named Pebble, who brings her comfort in an uncertain world. When a lost little boy arrives to the refugee camp where Lubna lives, will she be able to give up Pebble to somebody who needs it more?
9 of 10 Image Credits: Barnes and Noble
“What Do People Do All Day?” by Richard Scarry
Even some adults wonder what people do all day, right? Renowned chldrens’ author Richard Scarry will help your toddler learn about the world around them and keep them engaged and entertained when you read this book aloud.
10 of 10 Image Credits: Amazon
“A Big Mooncake for Little Star” by Grace Lin
From bestselling author-illustrator Grace Lin comes A Big Mooncake for Little Star, which tells a beautiful origin story of the moon. Toddlers and parents alike will be drawn in by the gorgeous illustrations and whimsical tale.
