Young children love to hear the same stories over and over again. In a classroom where there are several books available, you will often see children picking up the same few stories that they have selected as their favorite. Part of the reason might be that children enjoy the stories or illustrations, but research suggests that there may actually be deeper learning happening too.
Research has found that re-reading the same books several times can facilitate better comprehension, retention and vocabulary development. For example, a 2011 study found that 3-year-old children were better able to recall and retain new vocabulary from books they had re-read when compared to children who had heard the same story only once. Additional research found that preschoolers who watched the same episode of a children’s show five times performed much better on follow-up comprehension questions than children who had seen the episode only once.
This means that children are learning every time they hear a story. Each time we re-read a book with young children, we are reinforcing the story’s vocabulary, themes, ideas, and lessons.
Because young children like reading the same books again and again, it is important to be thoughtful in your selection of books. Choosing books that are interesting, engaging, and fun to re-read are keys to supporting children’s learning. Below are a few of our favorites.
A story time classic, Goodnight Moon, has been loved for generations. Children will enjoy calling out each of the objects in the room in this peaceful, simple story.
Infants and toddlers will enjoy this interactive, rhyming story that allows children to explore each page’s cutouts.
Toddlers will enjoy learning about colors and animals in this fun story. If this is already a favorite with the children in your care, you might also want to check out Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What do You Hear?
This story is a beloved classic for toddlers and young preschoolers. Children will enjoy the story’s bouncing rhymes and lovable characters. The children in your care might also enjoy Julia Donaldson’s other books, including Room On the Broom and The Snail and the Whale.
Sandra Boynton’s rhyming, fun stories are always a favorite with infants, toddlers, and young preschoolers. If your children are already fans of this story, you might also consider checking out But Not the Hippopotamus or The Going to Bed Book.
This book is a favorite for little ones from toddlerhood to pre-k. The sweet, simple story helps children with letter recognition.
NAEYC’s Book Recommendations for Infants and Toddlers 
New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Books of 2018
Holiday Book Recommendations