MayaSmart.com is your one-stop-shop for raising a reader. And, of course, one of the best ways to raise a reader is to read to your child. That’s why we publish lots of kids’ book lists and book reviews, with suggestions of great reads for various ages and interests.
Young children love hearing the same book over and over and over (you knew that!), but regularly mixing in different books to your shared reading will keep it fresh for you and them, plus introduce them to more words and concepts. To make it easy for you to find excellent new-to-you picture books to share with your child right now, we’ve curated some of our best recommendations for diverse picture books that are extra relevant this month.
We include links to Bookshop.org so you can order them from independent booksellers, but remember that reading to your child doesn’t have to break the bank: Your local library may carry these titles, too!
So, without further ado, here’s what to read with your picture-book-loving child this month:
Picture Books for Women’s History Month
March is Women’s History Month! What a wonderful time to highlight and celebrate the groundbreaking contributions women have made to our world. From blazing new trails in male-dominated fields to embarking on monumental careers as inventors, authors, athletes and so much more, women have made a tremendous impact in society, and continue to do so to this day.
It’s never too early to learn about how women have shaped the course of history, showing courage, wisdom, and empowerment. If you’re looking for some empowering books to enjoy with your child for Women’s History Month, we’ve curated a selection of inspiring picture books by and about a diverse set of amazing women in honor of the occasion.
Books to Welcome Spring
Did you know that being in nature can help kids learn better, may combat ADHD as effectively as medication, and can soothe stress? So welcome the springtime and inspire your little nature explorer by reading about all the growth and new life happening at this time of year—and then go out and see it for yourself. You might even snag a picnic blanket and a stack of picture books and take your child on a story time nature picnic.
To get you started, check out the picture books about gardens and gardening that are recommended in our flower pencil holder tutorial post. We’ve also rounded up a list of picture books about one of the world’s most precious natural resources—water! And this is also the season of baby animals, so take a look at these precious picture books about puppies, too.
Books for Surviving Spring Break
If you have kids in school, Spring Break is a challenge and an opportunity. It’s a challenge to keep your little ones happily employed while school is closed, and it’s an opportunity to get in some travel if you’re able. And some great reads will help with both!
Keep your child busy by providing them with plenty of age-appropriate books to page through on their own, in addition to reading aloud to them. Seeking out books that play to their interests, spark new ideas, and inspire their imaginations will also help them fill their non-reading hours. Try our roundup of STEM-related picture books and picture books about sports and athletes, for example. We also have a list of touching picture books that will draw kids into their stories and build their emotional intelligence.
If you’re getting together with relatives over the vacation, reading thoughtfully chosen books with your child will help prepare them. You might read some of these books about senior citizens and aging if you’re going to be seeing grandparents or other older relatives. We also have a post specifically about using books to prepare young children for successful visits with extended family.
And if your Spring Break plans involve any extended car or airplane time, a set of headphones and these audiobooks for toddlers or audiobooks for preschoolers may just save you!
Bonus: Keep your child playing and learning with our literacy activities and educational crafts. In March, try this fun and educational St. Patrick’s Day game, designed to develop children’s phonemic awareness.
Reading widely and frequently with your child is crucial to set them up for success in school and life, as well as a lovely way to introduce them to new concepts. In addition to bringing books into your reading time that tackle timely topics or subjects you want them to know about, always be sure to follow their interests, as well. If your kid loves horses or trucks—go to town on books about that subject (among others!). If your kid is curious about science or loves animals—ditto. Following their interests keeps them engaged and helps you build a responsive relationship with your child. You also won’t go wrong sharing some books you love or titles about topics you care about, as your child will catch your enthusiasm. (If you really want to get your little one to dig into some new reads, dress up a personalized book grab basket to introduce the fresh titles.)
We’ll be back next month with our guide for what to read to your child in April. Meanwhile, go ahead and browse around the site for more tips and tutorials, or message Maya with your questions. We’re so happy to have you here!
What are you and your child reading this month?