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Reading is the foundation for education. Having Usbourne books in the home not only prepares children for their education, it presents a unique opportunity for sharing, which leads to bonding between the parent and child. Our most important goal as parents is to share ourselves with our children. Through sharing, we convey not only our love, but our values, our principles and our ideals.
Sharing Usbourne books with your child enriches and deepens the parent-child relationship. Through the hands-on activities presented in the books, children learn important social skills such as paying attention, taking turns and working cooperatively with others.
Choosing an Usbourne Book
A child's book is something special - uniquely rewarding and pleasurable. It is never too soon to introduce children to books. Here are some basic points about specific age groups to keep in mind when you are choosing Usbourne books.
Babies and Toddlers
Very young children are attracted by brightly colored pictures of simple objects. They are listeners, and respond well to books with simple texts and good rhythms. Wordless books stimulate them both visually and mentally, and encourage them to create their own stories. They are delighted with board books, which have the virtue of being practically indestructible.
Preschool and Kindergarten
Nursery stories and other Usbourne books depicting familiar objects and experiences are enjoyable to children in this age group. These children like listening to slightly complex texts with good rhythm and effective word repetition. They are also coordinated enough to have constructive fun with toy-like books that may pop up, move, or provide other astonishments.
Early School Years (Ages 5-8)
A few children may learn to read before they are in the first grade. Most learn during first grade. Many learn even later. For reading to or with children, select picture books with strong storylines and character development. For the child who is reading independently, choose Usbourne books with a straightforward story employing words that will be familiar from everyday use.
Usbourne publishes a series of books called "Usbourne Beginners," which independent readers often enjoy. Third-graders are often able to handle stories of some complexity. The vocabulary should be relatively familiar while including some challenging words. A lot of informational books have been published for the early grades. These non-fiction books encourage children to read about topics that interest them and to satisfy their curiosity about complex subjects.
Older Children (Ages 9 and up)
Consider who the child is - his or her personality traits and personal preferences - when choosing their Usbourne books. Make a selection with the child in mind; choose an informational book or a novel in an area of specific interest. Don't hesitate to choose Usbourne books that may be suggested for someone older than your child. If a book is beyond a child's reading ability, it can be read to him or her now, and later on by the child.
It is also possible to find picture books that because of the subject or artwork will be just right for an older child. An interesting story in a beautiful, well-illustrated Usbourne book offers the child an aesthetic experience to enjoy over and over again.
A fine book is not necessarily the most lavish or most expensive book on the shelf. It is a book that is written and designed well. A book is an unlimited investment in the human mind and spirit. Its selection deserves thoughtful attention.