Updated 30th December 2021.
At four years old, many children will start to enter the school system and join Reception class / Elementary School, which means their formal education will begin. As far as reading goes, they will probably start to learn phonics and will begin to blend sounds to make words. They may also start to learn comprehension skills.
What does this mean for your reading to them? Well, for the first time your child can read to you, which has benefits all its own! If they bring books home with them, try to find time to listen to them read every day. Be patient, and be full of praise! Reading to your child is still important. In fact, it’s essential. In this guide we cover what to consider when buying the best book for a 4 year old, and our reviews of the best books for this age.
What to consider when buying books for 4 year olds
Learning to read can be frustrating at this age, so reading to them during this period ensures they still think of books and reading as fun, interesting and an opportunity to snuggle up with mum and dad. Beyond keeping it fun, there are other key things to consider for what makes a great four-year-old book:
The 15 best books for 4 year olds
Editors Review
“It’s the story of a first day at school, told with fun rhymes, gentle humour and clear, simple illustrations.”
A rhyming, fun-filled celebration of school to get your child ready for the big day.
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
2. Mr Big
Editors Review
“It’s a small book with a big heart, teaching all about inclusion and not judging books by their covers."
He looks hard as nails, but inside Mr Big is a BIG softy. How can he convince others to stick around?
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
“Unforgettable characters and great rhymes your child will want to hear (and perhaps read) again and again.”
Don’t miss out on this magical mystery tour of mayhem. A bona fide children’s classic.
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
“It’s a wonderfully imaginative story, with the centre of the pages acting like some weird Bermuda Triangle of books.”
When a book starts devouring pets and people, Bella - and you - must investigate.
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
“It’s about sharing and friends, so some nice messages for little people (i.e. the kids).”
Rabbit needs to quit his selfish ways before the world is covered in carrots!
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
6. Swapsies
Editors Review
“It’s funny, sparky and you’ll root for Fang and Sox.”
At an age when children will be mixing more and becoming more independent, a great story about the importance of sharing.
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
7. I Am Bear
Editors Review
"Bold illustrations, nice word play and great gags."
Bear is a trickster all right, even stealing doughnuts from the police officer!
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ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
"This rock ‘n’ roll cat is one of the grooviest characters in young children’s fiction."
Can Pete keep singing without his groovy buttons? Sing along and help him find out.
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ANY ISSUES?
9. The Gruffalo
Editors Review
"The clever mouse who tricks his predator pals is a winner with children."
This modern classic is great for reading to kids of any age, and at four years plus children will start to explore the story on their own.
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
"Zany, odd and laugh-out-loud hilarious - fun for all the family!"
There are no underpants in space...but aliens love them anyway!
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
“The story of striking crayons is original, funny and fabulous!”
Blue doesn’t just want to colour water anymore. Orange and yellow aren’t speaking. How will Duncan draw now that the crayons have had enough?
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ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
“If you ever wanted to know that turtles can breathe through their bottoms, this is the book for you."
Why do we sleep? How do astronauts get ready for bed? Top bedtime facts to amaze and delight.
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
“It’s all about using your brains and sass to defeat a bunny-boiling monster. What’s not to like?”
When Billy and Fatcat hear a terrible rumble, it can only mean one thing…
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
“It’s such good fun your children won’t even know they’re learning things at the same time.”
Lots of children love the night sky, and this is a great, fun way to expand their knowledge.
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
Editors Review
“Witty rhymes, great art and a clever twist.”
If a bear’s on your chair, what on earth are you to do?
HIGHLIGHTS
ANY ISSUES?
How to read to a 4 year old
First of all, make sure you do read to your four-year-old. If your child has started exploring simple stories for themselves (don’t worry if not, many won’t have yet), you may be tempted to take a back seat. Resist that temptation. Reading to your child makes sure it remains a fun activity that you both enjoy, rather than just a piece of Reception-level homework. Here's a few other tips for getting the most out of reading with a 4 year old.
4 year old books - Dad Stories
There's nothing we love more than seeing dads reading with their 4 year old boy or girl. Here are some of the stories we've loved and been inspired by.
