Middle Grades
10-12 yrs.
Middle Grades
12-14 yrs.
Toddlers
Preschool
Kindergarten
First
Grade
Second
Grade
Third-Fifth Grades
Upper Grades
Young Adults
| Reading aloud is a great idea at every age, especially during a
period when independent reading may be tapering off. In fact, there
is very little that can reinforce a lifelong habit of reading as much
as reading to children. Most ten year olds like books with happy endings, light nonfiction, and humorous books. Because they are comfortable with what they know, they may be inclined to stick to familiar books and may even go back to books they enjoyed at a younger age. This is a sign, in fact, that the book habit is firmly in place. Between ten and twelve is the era of the secret club and the peer group. Mystery and fantasy continue to be popular, but now more adult themes and so-called "problem" books become popular. This may arise from a need to explore life and face adult issues, however, parents should be careful about the content of "problem" books. Many are not appropriate for this age group. POETRY: Children now have acquired a little background in poetry. For many kids poetry often means humor. Both sunny ten-year-olds and more mellow elevens and twelves may be ready for poetry of content and seriousness. They may suddenly be open to metaphor and cadence. Reading aloud excellent poetry cannot help but educate them to the possibilities of language. One way to enjoy poetry is through anthologies, which are put together in various ways, many times by themes or authors. CONTEMPORY LIFE: Books that parallel their lives and thoughts are always of interest to children, and probably more now as they move toward adolescence. They may be drawn to books that are about a test of ability of a person close to their age and trying to survive. FANTASY: Many kids still fantasize and these books take them out of themselves and into other times and places. Many psychologists feel that reading fantasy to older children is one of the keys to problem-solving skills in later life. Whether fantasy is simple or complex, historical, contemporary, or futuristic, these books seem to be enjoyed by both listener and reader. MYTHS, LEGENDS, AND FOLKTALES: At this age many children are drawn to books about the days of King Arthur, the Greek heroes and heroines, and stories from the Bible. ANIMAL NATURE STORIES: A connection with nature and caring about the creatures which children share the planet with is a part of growing up. The instinct to relate to animals and pets, or the whole outdoors is very strong in many children now, and they should be given the opportunity to read and listen to as many as of these stories as possible. REMINDERS IN CHOOSING BOOKS: Whether the people children get to know in books are miles away, in outer space or simply people from a different background or time, books can help develop an understanding of their lives. Help children to explore morals and values, expand their horizons and interests, and develop creativity and problem solving. Reading aloud as a family activity is still a great idea. Discuss books with your children and encourage them to make wise choices. Because of the range in maturity of this age group, we have divided our selections of books into two sections: the 10-12 age group and the 12-14 age group. We have found that some books that are listed by the book industry with a Middle Grade classification may not be suitable for the younger Middle Grade readers. |