As a 6 year old, your child is entering a magical world of learning and discovery. Reading plays a crucial role in this journey, helping children develop language skills, empathy, creativity, and a lifelong love for knowledge. Choosing the right books can make all the difference in fostering your child’s interest in reading. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best books for 6 year olds, carefully selected to captivate their imaginations, teach valuable lessons, and encourage a passion for reading.
1. The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
In this humorous and creative story, Duncan’s crayons go on strike, each expressing their grievances in a unique way. This book teaches children about the importance of appreciation, creativity, and problem-solving. The colorful illustrations and witty writing make it a delight for both kids and adults.
2. The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin
This beautifully illustrated book celebrates the boundless potential within every child. With its heartwarming rhymes and whimsical artwork, “The Wonderful Things You Will Be” encourages children to dream big, be kind, and embrace their uniqueness. It’s a perfect bedtime story that will leave your child feeling loved and inspired.
3. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
A classic tale of unconditional love and selflessness, “The Giving Tree” follows the lifelong relationship between a boy and a tree. As the boy grows older, the tree continues to give, teaching children about the true meaning of love and the joy of giving. This timeless story is sure to touch the hearts of both children and adults.
4. Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty
Rosie Revere dreams of becoming a great engineer, but she’s afraid of failure. With the help of her great-great-aunt Rose, Rosie learns that failure is a necessary part of the invention process. This inspiring story encourages children to embrace their curiosity, persevere through challenges, and never give up on their dreams.
5. The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson
When a tiny snail hitches a ride on the tail of a giant whale, they embark on a journey around the world. This charming story teaches children about the wonders of exploration, the importance of friendship, and the idea that even the smallest creatures can make a big difference. The rhyming text and beautiful illustrations make it a joy to read aloud.
6. The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires
A little girl sets out to make the most magnificent thing, but her attempts keep falling short. Through trial and error, she learns the value of perseverance, problem-solving, and the importance of taking a break when frustrated. This story encourages children to embrace their creativity and to view failures as opportunities for growth.
7. The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
Vashti believes she can’t draw, but her teacher’s encouragement leads her to make a single dot on paper. This simple act sparks Vashti’s creativity, and she discovers that everyone has the potential to be an artist. “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds inspires children to explore their creativity, believe in themselves, and encourage others to do the same.
8. Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari is determined to jump off the high diving board at the pool, but his nerves keep getting in the way. With his father’s encouragement and his own bravery, Jabari learns to conquer his fears and take the leap. This story teaches children about courage, perseverance, and the importance of having a supportive family.
9. Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña
As CJ and his grandmother ride the bus through town, CJ wonders why they don’t have a car like his friend. His grandmother helps him see the beauty in their routine and the world around them. This award-winning book teaches children about gratitude, empathy, and finding joy in everyday experiences.
10. The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak
This innovative book proves that words alone can be just as entertaining as pictures. With silly phrases and tongue twisters, “The Book with No Pictures” encourages children to use their imaginations and find humor in the power of language. It’s a perfect choice for read-aloud sessions that will have both kids and adults laughing out loud.
11. The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein
Beatrice is famous for never making mistakes, but when she finally does, she learns that life doesn’t end when you make a mistake. This story teaches children about the importance of taking risks, learning from failures, and embracing imperfection. It’s a valuable lesson that will help children develop resilience and a growth mindset.
12. Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
This hilarious story follows a boy who throws a taco party for a group of dragons. But when he accidentally serves them spicy salsa, chaos ensues. “Dragons Love Tacos” is a laugh-out-loud tale that teaches children about the importance of following instructions and the joy of sharing meals with friends.
13. The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig
Brian feels invisible at school, until a new student helps him discover his talents and find his voice. This powerful story teaches children about the importance of inclusion, empathy, and the value of friendship. It’s a must-read for any child who has ever felt left out or unseen.
14. Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty
Ada Twist is a curious girl who loves to ask questions and conduct scientific experiments. This inspiring story encourages children to embrace their natural curiosity, think critically, and never stop learning. With its diverse characters and STEM themes, “Ada Twist, Scientist” is a perfect choice for budding young scientists.
15. The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad
When Faizah’s older sister starts wearing hijab to school, Faizah must learn to be brave in the face of bullying and ignorance. This powerful story, written by Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad, teaches children about the importance of faith, family, and standing up for what you believe in. It’s a beautiful celebration of diversity and self-acceptance.
Conclusion
These 15 books offer a wealth of learning opportunities for 6 year olds, from developing empathy and creativity to embracing diversity and perseverance. By providing your child with a diverse range of stories and characters, you can help them grow into well-rounded, compassionate, and curious individuals. Remember, the key to nurturing a love for reading is to make it an enjoyable and shared experience. Set aside time each day to read together, discuss the stories, and watch your child’s imagination soar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I encourage my 6 year old to read more?
Make reading a fun and interactive experience by choosing books that align with your child’s interests, reading together, and discussing the stories. Create a cozy reading nook, visit the library regularly, and model good reading habits yourself.
What skills should my 6 year old be developing through reading?
At this age, your child should be developing phonics skills, sight word recognition, comprehension, and fluency. They should also be learning to make predictions, inferences, and connections between stories and their own experiences.
How long should I read with my 6 year old each day?
Aim for at least 20-30 minutes of reading time each day, which can be broken up into smaller sessions. Consistency is key, so try to make reading a daily habit.
What if my child struggles with reading?
Be patient and supportive. Every child learns at their own pace. If you’re concerned about your child’s reading progress, talk to their teacher or a reading specialist. They can provide strategies and resources to help your child build confidence and skills.
Can I use audiobooks or e-books with my 6 year old?
Absolutely! Audiobooks and e-books can be great tools for engaging reluctant readers or providing a different way to experience stories. Just be sure to balance screen time with traditional print books and outdoor play.