Three Kinds of Gift Books for Children

Do you have a few things left to get for Christmas? Me, too!

I've been looking over my family's wish lists. And something stood out about books. It won't be a surprise to you.

Kids enjoy different book formats.

Here are three formats that are great considerations as you finish up your Christmas shopping.

1. Traditional, Print Books - Traditional books can be wrapped and tucked inside a stocking or placed under the tree. They can be held and enjoyed again and again as the child or teen turns the pages and takes in the illustrations. Traditional, print books can be shared between parent (or grandparent) and the young reader. These books can be stowed away for future generations to enjoy. We can probably all agree on the benefits of books that we can hold and share with others... But some young readers are changing... And screens are more and more important in their young lives.
2. Ebooks - One reader on my Christmas list ONLY reads ebooks. Ebooks offer the convenience of being transported easily from place to place. One device can hold an entire library and can be tucked inside the child's book bag, ready to board the plane to Grandma's or keep one entertained in the back seat of a car.
3. Audio Books - Audio books offer their own set of perks. They are convenient and can be enjoyed individually or shared with a group. I posted about the draw of audio books for some kids who struggle with reading, but readers of all abilities enjoy listening to books.

What about the kids and teens on your Christmas list? What kinds of books will keep them "turning the pages"?

Carol

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A Note from Carol:

I have the amazing opportunity to write books for children and preteens. My preteen devotionals are for kids ages 8 - 12, written in the popular doodle format. Kids read a short devotion and then write or doodle (draw) how the Bible text applies to their own lives. The books make great stocking stuffers and gifts for Sunday School groups. You can check them out by clicking on one of the pictures at the right. 

Recommended Books for Kids

It happened at the post office. A young mom was at the counter. She had a baby on one hip and a

preschooler dancing at her feet. She was talking to the clerk about mailing several books that were obviously written for children. The books were on top of a colorful, padded envelope.

My first reaction was to think what an awesome gift they would be for the recipient. Then, I wondered if they were the same titles that the dancing preschooler knew and loved - you know, recommended preschool reading.

One child offering a book recommendation to another is such a fun idea. Here are some reasons why:

• The first child gets a chance to share a title he or she loves.
• The first child stops to think about why the book is recommended.
• The first child writes or draws about the recommendation
• The second child gets a gift.
• The second child not only gets to read the recommendation, but can think about his or her own reaction to the book.
• The second child can write or draw a thank you note and reaction to the book.

What are other ways that kids can pass on their impressions about books they are reading? I love to post about that!

A Traveling Book Club

Under Cover Devotion Club

Book Bag Fun for Preschoolers

I also love giving children's books as gifts. How about you?

Carol