From http://mindsonmusic.kindermusik.com/parenting-tips/choosing-great-childrens-books/

Choosing Great Children's Book

(Below is a break-down from the "Read all About it" article by Susan B. Neuman, a professor of childhood studies, in the Parent and Child Magazine.)

Choosing Books by Age

birth - 1 year

Look for small, brightly colored books with photos of babies and familiar objects like balls and bottles. Draw attention to the objects by saying things like, "Look at the ball," or point to pictures and ask, "What's that?"

1 - 2 years

Look for sturdier books that can be handled and carried; few words on the pages or simple rhyming themes. Talk about the pictures - you don't necessarily have to read the book to tell the story.

2 - 3 years

Look for silly or funny books with subjects like food, animals, or making friends. Simple word books are good choices. Keep stories short and read them with few interruptions. Then, re-read them.

3 - 4 years

Look for books that tell simple stories with a beginning, a middle, and end; stories that relate to life, like overcoming fear; information books about children's interests. As you read ask your child questions about the story: "What do you think will happen next? Why?" Keep them engaged to improve their early literacy skills.

5 - 6 years

Look for stories and information books that evoke children's lively imagination and interests; books about space, machines, time, and other cultures. Ask your child to tell you what interests her most about the story. Use open-ended questions to encourage her to relate her ideas. Allow her to ask questions as you read.

Shared by Theresa Case, whose Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC, is proudly among the top 1% of Kindermusik programs worldwide.