To Parents From Parents: 5 Must-Read Children’s Books

 

 

What’s one of the easiest things parents can do to help children grow academically, socially, verbally, and cognitively? Read! Reading aloud at home has numerous benefits for children, and can help bring families closer together. At Rocketship, our parents know that when a child develops a love of reading, it fosters a joy of learning that can last a lifetime. So, we asked parents to share which children’s books they read at home. Check out their top picks:

 

1. I Said No! by Zack & Kimberley King

Why our parents love it: “I chose this book because it’s very important for children to know appropriate and inappropriate touching, and how to say no!” — Tosha, Rocketship Legacy Prep Parent

In a nutshell: While it’s never easy to talk to children about inappropriate behavior, it is absolutely necessary to make your child aware of what is acceptable and what’s not. Written by Kimberley King and her son, Zack, this book teaches children about body safety and what constitute healthy boundaries.

 

 

2. The No More Bullying Book for Kids by Vanessa Green Allen M.Ed. NBCT

Why our parents love it: “At a Los Dichos event, we read a book on being proud of who we are and where we come from. We enjoyed reading to the kids and we thought it would be so awesome to have more books on bullying. Together we can overcome bullying, one community at a time, and the best place to start is at home and at school!” — Cindy, Rocketship Brilliant Minds Parent

In a nutshell: While bullying is a concept that most children are well aware of, it may still be difficult for them to talk about it and find solutions. This book sheds light on how to identify bullying and provides guidelines on what to do when someone is being bullied.

 

 

 

3. Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by Andrea Beaty

Why our parents love it: “This book demonstrates that no matter how old you are, you can make a difference in your community. Your voice is important! With books like these, my son is able to make connections as to why mom and dad are so involved at his school and why it’s important.” —Yoly, Rocketship Fuerza Community Prep Parent

In a nutshell: This story follows Sofia’s journey into political activism. Distraught by the quality of environmental care in her neighborhood, she decides that she must help her community by speaking up and taking on city hall. Ultimately, this book is great for teaching children that they are powerful and can incite change if they put their mind to it.

 

 

 

 

4. Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History by Vashti Harrison

Why our parents love it: “My son and I enjoy this book because he gets an opportunity to see men that look like him and who have achieved such great things while enduring obstacles and beating the odds.” —Yolanda, Rocketship Legacy Prep Parent

In a nutshell: Growing up, it’s vital for children to have strong role models who inspire them to achieve great things. Little Legends does just that as it introduces its readers to a world full of powerful and commendable figures, such as civil rights activist and writer, James Baldwin, tennis champ, Arthur Ashe, and artist, Aaron Douglas.

 

 

 

 

 

5. Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons by Eric Litwin

Why our parents love it: “Pete the cat has always been a great character that demonstrates that we can find goodness in our small inconveniences. He has taught my son to keep moving along and remain cool and groovy when things become challenging, like learning to button his shirt and zip up his jacket.” — Silbia, Rocketship Spark Academy Parent

In a nutshell: Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons is not only an entertaining book but it also has a clever concept. It teaches kids how to subtract, as well as how to overcome unfortunate scenarios. With colorful and wacky illustrations, this book will surely captivate your child’s attention.

Published on December 19, 2019