Kids like to be nestled close to mom, dad or another family member and listen to a good story. When reading a book to your child, you are saying, “I love you! I care about your language development. I care about spending quality time with you.” Some of the best read aloud books for kids are classics. I’ve outlined some of the classics below.

While K-2 kids are learning how to read with phonics books, it’s important to read aloud to them to develop their vocabulary.

Listening to books develops vocabulary and builds other critical literacy skills for young readers. But, not all books are equal. Some are plain bad. Others boring. Some even have poor grammar.

Here’s a list of some book gift ideas for the holidays:

Just a Litter Critter Collection by Mercer Mayer

Have a child who hates reading? Thinks reading is a drag? These books are sure to engage that young reader. Littler Critter is a mischievous little boy who is disgruntled with life, particularly with how adults make rules that make things boring and safe and all. Oh if only mom and dad would let me live in my own filth and clutter, sleep outside in a tent, and go to bed at any hour!

Mercer Mayer’s collection is among the best read aloud books for kids.

Days with Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel

Another classic. Frog and toad are adult best friends who live a simple life. Frog and toad have an enduring friendship. Toad is kind of grumpy, while frog is usually optimistic. Yet, despite their differences, they have a loving caring friendship full of humorous moments. They help each other have a better attitude and work ethic. They show that friendship is about listening, having fun, giving and receiving.

Frog and Toad are among the best read aloud books for kids.

The Mitten by Jan Brett

A cute story about a bunch of animals that try to fit inside one small mitten. The pictures really engage the imagination, and make the most passionate snow haters long for a skip in the snow to enjoy the beautiful white-covered evergreens sitting in the blanketed snowy hills. Oh, the art of Jan Brett is magical. Plus, she is a great writer too. She includes challenging words and sentences that help children learn new vocabulary.

Jan Brett’s books are some of the most magical and best read aloud books for kids.

Enjoy those cups of Egg Nog or sprinkled covered See’s candies or whatever else you get on the holidays. The holidays provide a good excuse to buy more books.

Reading Elephant offers printable phonics books for K-2 struggling readers.