Rhyming books are a fun way for toddlers and preschoolers to experiment with sounds, words, and language as a whole. But as any parent knows, finding a book a toddler likes is the easy part. Finding one that an adult can enjoy reading again and again can be a more challenging task. Below are eight great rhyming books that kids love, but that also have a little something for the adults.
The Napping House
Featuring a snoring granny, a dreaming child, a dozing dog, a snoozing cat, and a slumbering mouse in a cozy bed, this is a lovely book to snuggle up with at any time of day.
Going on a Bear Hunt
“We’re going on a bear hunt! We’re gonna catch a big one! What a beautiful day. We’re not scared!” This classic children’s story features a dad and four kids going on an adventure to find a bear. The “splash splosh” and “swishy swashy” sound effects will have you re-enacting this book on your own adventures for years to come.
All the World
This beautifully illustrated book includes pictures of babywearing, breastfeeding, racially diverse families, and people of all ages enjoying cozy meals, going to a farmer’s market, collecting rocks, climbing trees, riding bikes, and more. A lovely book is best suited for poetic souls of preschool age and above.
Ten Little Fingers, Ten Little Toes
“There was one little baby who was born far away. And another who was born on the very next day. And both of these babies, as everyone knows, had ten little fingers, and ten little toes.” The writing and adorable drawings drive home the message that despite where we were born or where we grew up, we all have lots of things in common.
My Monster Mama Loves Me So
“My Monster Mama loves me so. Let me tell you how I know.” This book details the way mamas love their little ones in ways kids and grown-ups alike are sure to recognize. “When I’m sick she’s twice as nice. She brings me lizard juice with ice.” The pictures are bright and detailed, the monsters are cute and cuddly, and the writing is humorous and heartwarming.
Mary Engelbreit’s Mother Goose: One Hundred Best-Loved Verses
No list of rhyming books would be complete without Mother Goose. This version by Mary Engelbreit was read over and over at our house until it fell apart. The illustrations are charming and the chosen rhymes are not scary.
Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See?
You can’t go wrong with a classic Eric Carle book. Upgrade to this slide and find version for extra fun.
Blue Hat, Green Hat
“Blue hat, green hat, red hat. Oops!” This Sandra Boynton book opens with three animals wearing hats correctly placed on their heads, followed by one animal standing on top of a hat — oops! Pure hilarity for toddlers. It won’t take long before they are “reading” each “oops” to you.
