Great Read Alouds: Picture books you can sing

One of the best ways to get your child ready to read is to sing with them. When you have a book you can sing, it's even better! Singing a book instantly engages a child’s brain. Music affects multiple regions of the brain. When a child is listening to a book being sung, one side of the brain processes the words while the other processes the music.

Singing books reinforces narrative skills or the ability to retell a story because kids are more likely to remember the story. Singing teaches children how to break down words into smaller parts. When words are sung, they are naturally broken down into smaller sounds. This is the rhythmic element of language that allows it to pair so well with music. Check out my recommended books to sing.

Over in the Meadow by Jane Cabrera

This is a nice smooth melody that encourages animal movements and counting all in one!

"A fun, friendly variation on an old counting rhyme. . . . Great fun for storytimes."—School Library Journal

"Each cheerful two-page scene is slathered in primary- and secondary-colored paint and reminiscent of children's artwork."—The Horn Book

Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed by Eileen Christelow

A wonderfully familiar chant, this book also encourages counting with a steady rhythm and fun characters. All the Little Monkey books are great!

"Whether sublimely happy or ridiculously goofy, Christelow's expressive monkeys pack a lot of appeal." — School Library Journal (starred review)

Take Us Out to the Ball Game written by Constance Allen, illustrated by Tom Brannon

Lovable Sesame Street characters come to the 7th inning stretch and sing the traditional Take Us Out to the Ballgame. Then it starts raining and the game is delayed. This gives them enough time for everyone at the game to sing THEIR versions of the timeless song. Elmo, Grover, Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Bert, Ernie, Oscar, Zoe and Abby Cadabby are part of the story.

How to Be A Rock Star written by Lisa Tolin, illustrated by Daniel Duncan

Maybe not one to sing but, if your child takes to some of the others, this might be handy. :)

"There's lots to laugh at . . . Well suited for a family read-aloud or for independent reading. This rocks!" — Kirkus Reviews