5 Bedtime Books You Can Read To Your Children

Reading is one of the most fundamental skills that lays the foundation for a child’s learning. A study by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development of Victoria and the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research has shown that reading to children at a young age “has a significant positive effect on their reading skills and cognitive skills”.

Plus, reading to your child can be an enjoyable experience for not just the child but you as well. Ask your child to point out things on the page or make them read along with you to make the activity more engaging.

Here are some children’s books you can read to your kid:

Charlie and The Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

First published in 1964, this is celebrated author Roald Dahl’s best known work. The story of Charlie Bucket, the five Golden Tickets, the Oompa-Loompas and the amazing Mr Willy Wonka is a favourite read among the young and the not-so-young. In 2005, filmmaker Tim Burton’s adaptation of the book, starring Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka, hit the theatres..

The Cat in the Hat by Dr Seuss

Part of a long series of iconic children’s stories, this mischievous and fun read, first published in 1957, is about an eccentric stranger (a cat) who visits the house of two young children when their mother is not at home. Bored, the kids are totally taken in and thoroughly entertained by this stranger and his tricks.

Panchatantra Stories

One of the oldest collections of Indian fables, the Panchatantra is a wonderful compilation of beloved childhood stories, such as The Monkey and The Crocodile, The Stork and The Crab, and The Wise Old Bird, to name a few. Perfect to read to little ones to teach them about bravery, courage, wisdom, and so on, this book makes for a light and enjoyable read.

Rabbit’s Bad Habits by Julian Gough, illustrated by Jim Field

Beautifully illustrated to keep children entertained, this book is ideal for children who are moving from picture books to reading. A sweet and funny story about a rabbit and a bear who become friends to survive together in the forest, this book will bring a smile to your face as well.

Stick Man by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler

This is the story of a stick man who lives happily with his family—lady stick and three little baby sticks—in the family tree until disaster strikes. The beautiful illustrations and the gripping story make it a wonderful read.