As your child moves up into preschool, kindergarten, or first grade, reading begins to morph into a subject of “academic importance” rather than just being an opportunity for having fun. And yet there is something disheartening about this shift from pictures, words, and giggles… into nouns, verbs, and vocabulary. When an activity becomes a chore rather than a joy, why do it?

How can you keep reading fun when it seems to feel like a struggle?  How do you teach your child the joyful aspects of reading when you have never quite been able to find them yourself?  As a librarian and life-long book lover, I believe you have to make the time to find those books out there that make you smile, that talk about things you love, or that teach you things you have a deep interest in learning about. They are out there!  Sometimes the best option for this young school-age group could be picture books that are funny or interesting and short enough to be enjoyed by any child (and yes, even grown-ups!)

A recent chat with a fellow parent made me think about some of the silliest and most interactive books I have enjoyed with my kids, so here is my list of favorites. Some are short and simple enough for beginning readers to help with, and some are longer for a good read aloud. Hopefully these books can start up some excitement, motivation, and new happy memories for any kid or parent who has struggled to find the enjoyment – and fun – in reading!

“We Are In A Book!” by Mo Willems

“The Book With No Pictures” by B.J. Novak

“Press Here” by Herve Tullet

“Yummy Yucky” by Leslie Patricelli

“The Monster at the end of this Book” by Jon Stone

“Time to Sleep, Sheep the Sheep” by Mo Willems