Parenting Wisdom

5 Old School Picture Books Your Kids Will Love

Posted on by Tricia Sportsman

I’ve loved books as long as I can remember. My mom worked at a library when she was pregnant with me, so it’s possible this love-affair started long before I ever laid eyes on a book. Friends often ask me how I’ve gotten my kids to love reading as much as they do. My practical answer is always the same; expose them early and never stop. My philosophy is that you can never have too many books. One of the best things about sharing my love of reading with my kids has been introducing them to books that I read when I was younger. If you’re looking for awesome new books, I’ve got some old school picture books your kids will love. These are some of my favorites from childhood that my kids love too!

Best Friends for Frances
by Russell Hoban

This story is a great example of how your sibling can be your friend too, a topic I was just discussing with my daughter this week. It also has a positive message regarding girl power. If your daughter (or son!) enjoys this book, all books in the series about the antics and adventures of Frances the Badger are worth the read.

A Chair For My Mother

by Vera B. Williams

Thru beautiful words and illustrations, this book demonstrates that having a goal and saving money isn’t always easy, but so worth it! This book is a Caldecott Honor Book and amazing on many levels. I still can’t help but think of this story every time I put change into a jar/bank.

Arthur’s Eyes
by Marc Brown

Despite a lot of teasing about his “four-eyes”, Arthur the Aardvark realizes that wearing glasses isn’t so bad. As someone who’s worn glasses from a young age and was often made fun of for it, I feel it’s a very relatable story for kids with vision problems. It also conveys a positive message for helping kids understand differences.

Miss Nelson Has A Field Day
by Harry Allard

There are several books written about Miss Nelson and substitute teacher, Miss Viola Swamp and they are definitely a fun read for early elementary-age kids. This story has a humorous tone with a hint of mystery, but still manages to show kids that it’s hard work, not slacking, that will get you the results you’re looking for.

Anansi The Spider: A Tale from the Ashanti
by Gerald McDermott

Because this story has been adapted from an Ashanti folktale, it is a refreshing change from many of the books in our usual rotation. One takeaway is that every spider, or child, has something unique about them and is able to offer a special skill to not only their family but the world around them. It is also a Caldecott Honor Book. My kids love looking at the unusual, eye-catching illustrations too.

What are some of your favorite books from childhood you enjoy sharing with your kids?

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