My curated bookshelf for kids
I do not just pick books, I pick stories that help your child learn math, handle big emotions, and grow into a kind person. Here are the ones I swear by!
Can stories teach math? Absolutely! Here are my favorite books for teaching concepts like measurement with "Inch by Inch," division with "The Doorbell Rang," and fractions with "The Lion's Share."
Struggling to teach your child about feelings? These books are a great help. "The Color Monster" teaches emotional recognition, while "Grumpy Monkey" shows that it's okay to feel down and express it.
This book, "Miss Nelson is Missing," worked wonders for one of my trainees whose child was having trouble at school. It's a magical story that teaches children to appreciate their teachers and the people who care for them.
If your child is attracted to shiny, artificial things, "The Glass Tree" is a perfect read. It's a powerful reminder that nothing man-made can replace the true beauty and life-giving charm of nature.
Bored of the same old fairy tales? Here are some of my favorite fairytale stories with a twist! "Goldilocks and Just One Bear" and "The True Story of The 3 Little Pigs" offer fresh perspectives and important lessons.
Here are some books I recommend for teaching important life lessons. "Norman the Slug with the Silly Shell" celebrates individuality, while "The Lion Inside" teaches that bravery comes from facing your fears.
I've always believed kindness is a seed we must nurture. "Kindness With Mahavira" is a charming board book that beautifully illustrates compassion and respect for all living beings, perfect for children aged 3 to 6.
About this collection
You do not need a hundred books to make a reader, you just need the right one at the right time. When a child struggles with a concept like division or even simple kindness, I reach for a specific story to illustrate it rather than a lecture. If your child is currently going through a phase, whether it is being picky with food or finding math tough, let me know. I can suggest the exact book that helped my own daughter or my students navigate that same hurdle.
Books are tools for connection. When I choose a book, I look for how it can open a conversation between a parent and child.
Teaching Math Through Stories
Math is often dry, but it comes alive in stories. I use books like 'The Doorbell Rang' to explain division or 'Inch by Inch' for measurement. These stories turn abstract concepts into relatable adventures.
Handling Big Emotions
Children feel things deeply but often lack the words to express them. 'The Color Monster' is a regular on my list for teaching emotional recognition, while 'Grumpy Monkey' validates those days when everything feels wrong. These stories provide a safe space to talk about feelings without pressure.
The Magic of Repetition
If your child begs for the same book every night, do not rush to find something new. Repetition builds neurological pathways and offers comfort. It allows the child to master the story, which builds confidence and language skills.
Choosing for Age
- 0 to 1 Year: Focus on high-contrast visuals and fabric books for sensory play.
- 1 to 2 Years: Lift-the-flap books encourage engagement and curiosity.
- 2 to 4 Years: Rhyming stories and pop-up books help build vocabulary and keep attention.
My recommendations are based on years of training parents and working with children in schools across Mumbai. If you are looking for a story that addresses a specific behavior or skill, I am happy to guide you.
Devaki Bhujang Gajare
I am Devaki, a mom and storyteller based in Mumbai. I believe stories are the safest, most magical way to teach children about the world and themselves. I am here to help you turn those ten minutes of bedtime reading into your child's favorite part of the day.
Let me help you find the right story.
Search by theme, age, or life skill to find books that matter.
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