For many people around the world, the end of the year is filled with holidays and celebrations that involve family gatherings, special foods, and many gifts. In general, children receive most of the gifts in the family, and some parents think they need to get the latest games and toys in order to make everyone happy. However, children need to have mental stimulation as well as fun, and by giving gifts of books, parents can be sure that they’re providing both. It’s especially important to encourage a love of books in younger children, because studies have proven that children who read more do much better in school, and even in their later careers. Here are some excellent books for children of all ages that will encourage them to read and build their vocabulary skills.

Ages 1-2

Even though children at this age generally can’t read for themselves, these books are good for parents to read with their children; this will also make the children want to read on their own, as they “learn by example” and watch the parents read.

First Hundred Words (Cartwright, Amery) – A book with engaging illustrations showing common useful words that can be both a picture book and an early vocabulary building tool.

My Favorite Word Book (Young) – Using a cast of animals and children, the author leads the reader through familiar locations and identifies the names of the people, places, and objects found along the way.

Ages 3-5

Let’s Learn English Picture Dictionary (Goodman) – This book expands a child’s vocabulary by introducing over 1,500 new words, accompanied by helpful illustrations.

Ages 6-8

Vocabulary Power (Grades 1 and 2) Carangelo – Help your child learn new vocabulary and get them used to the more structured format of an English class or schoolroom with these books.

Ages 9-12

Vocabulary Field Trip (Le Ny) – This is a combination dictionary and vocabulary-building tool that will help older children expand their vocabularies and get interested in words.

Of course, any books that are written on subjects that interest your children make great gifts as well. Whether it’s ballet, football, ocean animals, or cooking, you’ll be able to find books on that topic. If the books you find are a bit above the child’s current reading level, make a point of reading the book with them so you can help them with the more difficult words.