If you're looking for some great books to read with your 3-year-old, look no further!
We've compiled a list of some of our favorite books for this age group. These books are entertaining and educational, and they're sure to keep kids engaged.
So whether you're a parent looking for something new to read to your young reader, or you're just curious about what kinds of books are appropriate for 3-years-old, we've got you covered!
We hope you enjoy these books as much as we do!
Be sure to check out our other book lists for the littlest readers.
Click on the links below to see a full list of our best books for 3-years-old!
How do we choose these books?
It can be hard for parents to know which books are fun and good for 3-year-olds. With so many books out there, it's hard to know which ones are good for them.
And with all the different age ranges, it's even harder to figure out what's appropriate.
As parents, you want to make sure that you are giving your child the best possible start in life.
This includes reading them good books.
We've read through thousands of reviews and ratings on Amazon to come up with a list of the best books for 3-year-olds.
Our list includes a variety of genres and styles that will keep your child entertained and engaged.
THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR by Eric Carle, Illustrated by Eric Carle
Best for its design and illustrations
Why We Love It
This book is a stunningly visual and incredibly fun and engaging tale of a very hungry caterpillar's progress through an amazing variety of foods.
Why is it fun
The simple text is in large, clear type and the illustrations are brilliantly colorful, making this an ideal book for curious little hands to explore.
It's a classic must-have for every child's book collection.
What You Should Know
Carle has dramatized the story of one of Nature's commonest yet loveliest marvels, the metamorphosis of the butterfly, in a picture book to delight as well as instruct the very youngest reader or listener.
He is acclaimed and beloved as the creator of brilliantly illustrated and innovatively designed picture books for the very young.
His best-known work, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, has eaten its way into the hearts of literally millions of children and parents all over the world.
The book has won over millions of readers with its vivid and colorful collage illustrations and its deceptively simple, hopeful story. This is a richly satisfying book with colorful illustrations.
This fun tale follows a caterpillar who, though very hungry, takes his time eating his way through an amazing variety of foods before finally transforming into a beautiful butterfly.
The illustrations are bold and bright, and Carle's distinctive collage style brings the insect's world to life in a way that will engage and enchant young readers.
Whether read alone or shared with a caregiver, it's sure to become an interactive book for many young boys and girls and their parents.
DRAGONS LOVE TACOS by Adam Rubin, illustrated by Daniel Salmieri
Best for friendship and sharing.
Why We Love It
Looking for a deliciously funny read-aloud that your kids will love?
Look no further than Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin, illustrated by Daniel Salmieri.
This unforgettable and fun tale of new friends and the perfect snack is sure to make you laugh until spicy salsa comes out of your nose!
Why is it fun
Dragon Loves Tacos is the perfect book for kids who love dragons and mild tacos.
The story is hilarious and the illustrations sweep you off into a mad taco-filled world loved by dragons.
Your child will be entertained from beginning to end, and they'll never forget the importance of friendship and sharing.
So if you're looking for a book that your kids will adore, pick up Dragons Love Tacos today! One of the best books in its style.
What You Should Know
Dragon Loves Tacos is the perfect gift for any special occasion! Written by Adam Rubin, this #1 New York Times bestselling phenomenon is a must-have for any child's library.
Full of vibrant illustrations and hilarious text, Dragon Loves Tacos tells the story of a dragon who loves tacos... but not the spicy salsa!
Young readers will laugh out loud as they follow along with the dragon's antics, and, no matter what, parents will appreciate the underlying message about trying new things.
Whether you're buying for a birthday, holiday, or just because, Dragon Loves Tacos is sure to please.
Dragon Loves Tacos has sold more than two million copies and has been translated into thirty-five languages, which makes this tale one of the best books for kids.
THE WONDERFUL THINGS YOU WILL BE by Emily Winfield Martin
Best for a heartwarming story or a gift for a special occasion
Why We Love It
What will you be when you grow up?
In this book, Emily Winfield Martin takes us on a journey of all the possibilities we could be!
From an astronaut to a chef, a dinosaur to a musician, there's no limit to what we can dream of becoming.
Why is it fun
With whimsical illustrations and sweet sentiments, this is a book that all parents should encourage kids to learn. Both parents and children will love reading together.
So whether you're looking for a bedtime book or a gift for a special occasion, this book is sure to please all children.
What You Should Know
Emily Winfield Martin's book is a charming read-aloud book that celebrates the potential of every child.
Through rhyming verse, Martin paints a picture of a world where kids learn how to be anything they dream of being, from brave explorers to gentle poets.
This message of possibility is echoed in the book's illustrations, which feature a cast of diverse and imaginative characters.
Whether your child is just learning to read or has been reading for years, The Wonderful Things You Will Be is sure to fill them with hope and courage for the future. This is one of the best books to read aloud with your kids.
WHERE DO DIGGERS SLEEP AT NIGHT? by Brianna Caplan Sayres, illustrated by Christian Slade
Best for calm and comfort kids for sleeping
Why We Love It
Looking for a bedtime book that will excite your little truck lover?
Look no further than WHERE DO DIGGERS SLEEP AT NIGHT? by Brianna Caplan Sayres.
Why is it fun?
This charming book takes you on a bedtime journey to construction sites, farms, and monster truck arenas to discover where all sorts of vehicles sleep at night.
With fun rhyming text and gorgeous illustrations, this book is sure to become a bedtime favorite.
So tuck your little one in with their favorite truck toy and let them drift off to sleep dreaming about all the amazing places their trucks go when they're tucked in for the night.
What You Should Know
There's something special about nighttime routines. Whether it's reading a bedtime story or singing a lullaby, these rituals help to calm and comfort kids as they drift off to sleep.
So it's no surprise that children's books about bedtime are so popular. And one of the most beloved series is Where Do Diggers Sleep at Night? by Brianna Caplan Sayres.
With its sweet rhyme scheme and charming illustrations, this book is the perfect way to say goodnight to your little ones.
The book follows a group of diggers as they get ready for bed, and kids will love seeing all their favorite vehicles tucked in for the night.
So if you're looking for a bedtime story that your little ones will love, be sure to check out Where Do Diggers Sleep at Night? and its companions. They're sure to leave your kids snuggled up and satisfied.
THE GRUFFALO by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Best for self-reliance and confidence.
Why We Love It
Are you looking for a charming story that will both amuse and teach your little ones a valuable lesson?
Then look no further than THE GRUFFALO by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler.
Why is it fun
This classic book focuses on the importance of self-reliance and confidence and is sure to delight readers of all ages.
THE GRUFFALO is printed on high-quality, thick paper that is both water and dust-resistant.
The pictures are colorful and engaging, making it the perfect book to read aloud to your children.
Best of all, this book is very affordable, so you can easily add it to your family's growing library.
What You Should Know
Julia Donaldson is the internationally bestselling author of many popular books for kids, including the Smarties Prize-winning modern classic, The Gruffalo.
Her books have sold more than 13.5 million copies worldwide, and she has been hailed as one of the most influential children's authors of our time.
Axel Scheffler is an award-winning, internationally-acclaimed illustrator of some of the most well-loved children's books, including The Gruffalo. His distinctive illustrations bring Donaldson's stories to life in a way that resonates with readers of all ages.
The Gruffalo is, indeed, a good candidate for a classic book.
Book Reviewers recommend it as a necessary addition to any child's library.
Many 2 years old loves this book along with The Gruffalo's Child as their regular bedtime read.
The combination of Donaldson's clever storytelling and Scheffler's captivating illustrations make these books true treasures that will be enjoyed for generations to come. A true unconditional love.
Books for 3 years old FAQs
It can be hard to find the right books for your 3-year-old. You want them to be entertained, but you also want them to learn something too.
It's tough trying to find books that are both entertaining and educational for your little one.
Most of the time it feels like you're stuck between a rock and a hard place.
We've got you covered with our list of frequently asked questions about books for 3-year-olds.
This list includes everything from what types of books are best for 3-year-olds, to how often they should read, to what topics they should cover.
Should my 3-year-old be reading?
Reading is a skill that can be learned at any age. Some kids can read at an early age, while others may take a little longer.
There is no set age when a child should start reading, but there are some things you can do to help your child learn how to read.
Start by reading children's books aloud to your child and discuss the story with them.
You can also have your kid look at pictures and identify objects and colors.
You can also help him practice their reading skills by having them read aloud for short periods each day.
Gradually increase the amount of time they spend reading each day. As they become more comfortable with reading, they will be able to read chapter books.
How high should a 3-year-old count?
Their counting skills will depend on their level of development and ability to understand concepts. Generally, most 3-year-olds can count up to 10 objects.
As parents, you can help your kid practice counting by providing them with objects to count such as balls, blocks, or cars.
You can also ask them questions such as "How many cars are in the driveway?" or "How many blocks are in this tower?" to help them improve their counting skills.
How do I choose a book for my 3-year-old?
When choosing a book for a 3-year-old, it's important to consider the child's interests and reading level. Look for books that are age-appropriate and have simple words and illustrations that will engage and interest your kid.
Some great book choices for 3-year-olds include stories about animals, nursery rhymes, fairy tales, and adventure stories.
Be sure to read the books with them and discuss the pictures and story elements together. This will help your child develop literacy skills and a love of reading.
Are board books good for 3-year-olds?
Many experts believe that board books are a great way for 3-year-olds to explore language and reading skills.
Board books are typically made out of cardboard and have very few words and pictures, which makes them perfect for toddlers who are just starting to learn how to read.
Board books can also be used to teach kids about colors, shapes, counting, and other basic concepts.
Should 3-year-olds know the alphabet?
There is no right answer to this question since it depends on the child's level of development and individual abilities.
However, many experts believe that children should be able to learn the alphabet by the time they are 3 years old.
Teaching children the alphabet at an early age can help them develop reading skills and prepare them for elementary school.
Are 3-year-olds supposed to write?
There is no one answer to this question since writing development is not equal for everyone.
However, most 3-year-olds can scribble on paper and begin to understand the basic concept of writing letters and numbers.
If your 3-year-old is interested in writing, there's no harm in letting them give it a try! Encourage your kid by providing plenty of opportunities for practice and praising their efforts.
With lots of encouragement and practice, they will soon develop the skills they need to write proficiently.
At what age should kids start talking?
Kids should start talking around the age of two. Children typically start to speak in short phrases at about 18 to 24 months old, but their vocabulary doesn't grow until they are about 2 years old.
By 3 years old, most kids have a pretty good understanding of language and can carry on a conversation.
What does Hyperlexia mean?
Hyperlexia is a condition in which a person has an unusually large vocabulary and superior reading skills.
People with hyperlexia can often read beginning readers' books by the time they are 3 years old.
They may fly through simple Readers' Digest articles by the time they are 7 years old.
However, despite their advanced reading skills, these individuals usually have difficulty understanding complicated sentences and paragraphs. They may also have difficulty with social interactions because they often interpret language too literally.
Is it normal for a 3-year-old not to talk?
It is not normal for a 3-year-old not to talk, but it is not necessarily causing alarm.
A 3-year-old who does not talk may have a speech delay or may be shy and hesitant to speak in front of others.
If you are concerned about your child's lack of speech, consult with your pediatrician.
The doctor will be able to determine if there is a medical reason for the lack of speech, or if they simply need some help developing communication skills.
With early intervention, most children with speech delays can catch up with their peers.
What cognitive skills should a 3-year-old have?
A 3-year-old should be able to do the following:
