An Educator’s 10 favorite books for preschoolers

Our mom has been a life-long educator. She’s taught preschool to high school journalism and English. Reading has been an integral part of her life as a teacher. She made it a part of our lives, as well.

Some of our favorite memories of childhood center on the books of our youth. Now that we have young children, reading has become even more important in our lives. Reading to your children from the very beginning helps instill a love of learning. It helps with their basic speech skills, helps them master language and create logical thinking skills.

When we were home at our parents this summer, we went through “Gram’s Library” with her. Talk about an amazing collection of books from her preschooler teaching days. We asked our mom to pick out her top ten favorite classic books for preschoolers. Here’s what she chose!

Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman, Caroline Binch

Amazing Grace in an inspiring story about believing in yourself no matter what people say.

Bread and Jam for Frances by Russell Hoban

Frances has been a most-loved character for over 30 years. A little one who only wants to each bread and jam – a familiar rite of passage from many.

Edward the Emu by Sheena Knowles, Rod Clement

Tired of his life as an emu, Edward decides to try being something else for a change. A great story about the power of being yourself.

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss

There’s a reason this book, first published in 1960 has been one of most popular children’s books of all time. Follow the story of Sam-I-Am.

Mike Mulligan Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton

It’s a modern class for all children since it was first published in 1939. It’s a story about true friendship, and the ups and downs it can endure.

Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney

It’s the story of Alice Rumphius who wants to do something to make the world a more beautiful place. With gorgeous illustrations, children can see the beauty of lupines.

 Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig

A story filled with magic, you can follow Sylvester along his way with his own magic pebble.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

A beautifully written classic that a child’s library shouldn’t be without.

The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf

This classic story of sweet Ferdinand, a bull who would rather smell flowers than fight.

The Very Hungry Catepillar by Eric Carle

You can’t go wrong with this classic Eric Carle book. The simple story of a very hungry catepillar’s life.