Choosing books for kids

The right book for every age, plus care tips.

Books grow with your child. Match the book to the stage — and let them choose.

By age - 0–2: board and cloth books — thick pages, bright pictures, few words. - 2–4: picture books — simple stories, repetition, things to point at. - 4–6: early readers and phonics sets — big text, short sentences, picture clues. - 6–8: early chapter books — short chapters, illustrations. - 9–12: chapter and fact books — topics matching their obsessions.

Picture books vs. early readers - Picture books are read aloud by grown-ups — the magic is in illustrations and rhythm. - Early readers are for solo reading — short sentences, repeating words, picture clues.

Building the habit - Let kids choose their own books, even the same one forty times — repetition builds confidence. - Keep books within reach; model reading yourself; try fact books (dinosaurs, space) for reluctant readers. - Reading aloud 20 minutes a day is the best preparation for early readers.

Care - Wipe board books with a damp cloth; store books upright; keep paper books out of direct sun. - Damaged on arrival? Film an unboxing video — our 7-day return policy covers it.