Tiny babies are constantly developing a perception of the world through sensory inputs, figuring out where they end and the rest of the world begins. They are learning and storing knowledge of how different objects feel, sound, and look. Not only is it important to encourage them in this process, by holding them, speaking and singing to them, and letting them see all kinds of different images (especially you, the parent) but they will respond well to toys and books that stimulate multiple senses. That is why books that present different-feeling surfaces and tactile experiences are so popular among children and parents alike.
Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt
Pat the Bunny was the very first book that began the popular trend integrating different elements in children’s books. Children all over the world continue to enjoy the book today, patting the bunny, putting their fingers through rings, and playing peek-a-boo. After launching an entire franchise of books, stuffed animals, and a knock-off world of touchy-feely books, Touch the Bunny has even been updated with a popular, critically-acclaimed app. The app is great – but I don’t think it’s necessarily as good as the exciting sensory-stimulating pages of the Pat the Bunny book.
B is for Bear
B is for Bear, by Roger Priddy combines the same touch and feel idea as Pat the Bunny with rhymes, such as “E is for elephant/ with very big feet/ F is for flower/ that smells so sweet.” The interactive combination of touching, rhyming, and simple, compelling images, is a fun and effective way to begin teaching children how to read, speak, and eventually write the alphabet.
Tails
Tails is a refreshingly original book in a genre that seems like it would have exhausted possibilities long ago. Again using rhymes and compelling illustrations, Matthew Van Fleet’s adorable children’s book teaches all about the animal world, through animal tails! The book allows children to not only tug on tails (as any parent knows is a child’s favorite activity) but also gives fun facts about different animals and their tails, teaching children without them even suspecting…
Experts have found the people, not just children, learn best when they have many different types of experiences to associate with the fact they are attempting to learn. For instance, it’s easier to remember lyrics if they are attached to a catchy song. That is why these interactive books have caught on, beginning with Dorothy Kunhardt, and have been such a powerful force in children’s learning and education. Remember also that it’s a lot easier for children to learn when they’re having fun, which is exactly what they’ll be doing with these three books. Enjoy!
+Maria L Hughes is a children’s book enthusiast and online publisher for childrensbookstore.com. She enjoys blogging about reading and children’s books.