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“Before they read words, children are reading pictures.” ― David Wiesner (author)
It is so enjoyable to snuggle up on the couch with your favorite little people and read books together isn’t it? That is one of my favorite things to do with my children because it’s a wonderful way to bond and connect with them as we allow the pages of a great story come alive.
There are so many amazingly talented children’s authors and illustrators and we love looking at their work. The children and I read and enjoy lots and lots of books together so choosing our favorites is not a simple task.
However, after some thought I’d have to say that these ten books have been our absolute favorites from the age of one or two until about five or so. Some of them we started reading before the children turned 2 years old and others we will continue reading past 5 years old so keep in mind that ages 2 to 5 is a general age range.
Favorite Children’s Books for Ages 2 to 5
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead
This sweet story is my absolute favorite picture book of all time and I think I might love it even more than the children do. Both the story and the illustrations are beautiful. This book would be a great addition to your own personal library.
No David! by David Shannon
At first I wasn’t impressed with this book but over the years I have really grown to appreciate it. The children get David. They understand that he is doing things he shouldn’t be and they love saying “NO, DAVID!” while we are reading it.
Piggies by Audrey Wood
This was a daily read for us when Kellan was about 2 years old. The kids have all loved using their hands to imitate the illustrations in the book.
Bear on a Bike by Stella Blackstone
One of the twins’ favorite books when they were two and three years old, our copy is falling apart from getting read so many times. Children love the bright illustrations and repetition.
Big Red Tub by Julia Jarman
This book was highlighted at Bookworm Gardens (a magical little place in Wisconsin). I purchased it after we went there in 2012 and we have read it many, many times since then.
From Head to Toe by Eric Carle
A great book for 1-3 year olds, although 5 year olds can still enjoy it too. Make sure you do the actions while you read the book to make it more fun!
Titch by Pat Hutchins
A favorite book of mine when I was a little girl, it is still enjoyable for children today. Our kids love it and they have also enjoyed the other Titch stories.
Papa Small by Lois Lenski
This little book is from the 1950s and our girls have especially enjoyed it. It does not reflect a modern family but the details in the illustrations are wonderful and it may prompt some discussion about families. (This book is now difficult to find but used copies can be found on eBay or Abebooks).
Napping House by Audrey Wood
Another sweet and fun story that we read almost daily when Kellan was 2 years old. Ask your child to find the animals on each of the pages. The mouse and the flea are small and can be especially tricky for little ones to find.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems
A very fun story with a cute little girl and a stuffed bunny who gets accidentally left at the laundromat. This one always makes me laugh!
If you are on my email list you have access to a free A Sick Day for Amos McGee Literature Unit with a focus on compassion. You can read more about the literature unit in this post.
What are your children’s favorite picture books?
Make sure to visit iHomeschool Network for more awesome book lists for your homeschool:
[…] Favorite Children’s Books for 2 to 5 Year Olds – Monica at Enjoy the Learning Journey […]