On the Shelf: April books for kids – Get ready for summer
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Baseball, beach days and potty training? Let’s get real about and ready for summer. Plus, don’t miss the story of a young boy who “wowed” us all.
“Baseball Biographies for Kids” by Dean Burrell (Callisto Publishing)
For chapter book readers, sports fans, reluctant readers or anyone (even grownups) who loves nonfiction, this book is the perfect companion to lazy Sunday afternoons watching a game or to enjoy in the stands between innings. Kids will love learning a bit of baseball history and reading about some of the sport’s greats, listed by position.
“Would You Dare Put a Diaper on a Bear?” by Lillias Kinsman-Chauvet (Union Square Kids, ages 3 – 5)
From a practical perspective, parents know that summer is the best time to start potty training, in most cases. Dressing a toddler in a diaper and T-shirt makes for an easier process than layers of winter clothing. But it also helps to set the stage, and a funny, charming book is a great start. This will get your wild little one giggling and maybe – just maybe – ready to say goodbye that diaper.
Indestructibles: “Sesame Street: Beach Day” and “Sesame Street: Cookie Monster Finds a Snack” (Workman Publishing)
These washable, chewable books are first-book favorites for a reason. And two new Sesame Street tales bring beloved characters to the page, going to the beach and having a picnic. (These are fantastic diaper bag and car books, and they make great new baby gifts.)
“The Boy Who Said Wow” by Todd Boss, illustrated by Rashin Kheiriyeh (Beach Lane Books, ages 3 – 8)
OK, not a summer theme for this one, but “wow” indeed. Parents might remember the story of 9-year-old Ronan Mattin. Ronan is nonverbal, but after attending a symphony concert, his “Wow!” captured the joy and awe of music for everyone there and those who heard the story about it. His first “wow” was one to remember. This picture book lets parents and kids share the story and discuss what it means when someone is nonverbal – and that they still express their feelings, even if without words.
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: On the Shelf: April books for kids – Get ready for summer
