Buy a book
Wondering what to get your nieces and nephews for the holidays this year?
Pop-ups and sticker books are popular with older kids, but babies and toddlers will do better with board or cloth books that they can really touch — or chew. Look for simple, rhythmic language.
—Preschoolers also like rhythm and also repetition.
—Books that use many of the same words that grade schoolers use in everyday life can help give young readers the confidence to try a new, more challenging word, says May. She also encourages books with international or ethnic themes.
—For older children, you’ll have to know a little bit more about their interests. For instance, consider a science fiction book for a “Star Wars” buff or a fashion book for a “Project Runway” fan.
It’s also a good idea to give older children chapter books that they can read bits of each day and then come back to, employing recall and comprehension.
And if it seems daunting to pick a book for someone else, ask a librarian for advice. A librarian usually has a handle on what’s available and what’s popular.
Associated Press