What types of books are best for my preschooler?

Picture books are unique in that they blend stories with art. When choosing a picture book, look for a book with a great story, as well as beautiful, eye-catching illustrations. Great illustrations are important because they not only help tell the story, they draw children in and help bring the book to life. Preschoolers love picture books that are engaging, for example, “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak and “Press Here” by Herve Tullet encourage children to use their imagination. Books that involve objects, people and situations preschools can relate to like “Harold and the Purple Crayon” by Crockett Johnson or “Beautiful Oops!” are also great choices.

Jennie Ito, Ph.D.

Child Development Expert

Jennie Ito is a mother of two and a child development consultant who specializes in children’s play and toys. Before becoming a consultant for LeapFrog, she was an intern at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC, and later worked as a content expert for the Association of Children’s Museum’s “Playing for Keeps” Play Initiative. Jennie earned her doctorate degree in developmental psychology at Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada.