Great Reads for Grandkids: 5 Read-Aloud Recommendations Seniors and Kids Can Enjoy Together
The start of a new school year reminds us of sharpened pencils, pink erasers, fresh new notebooks, and a world of books to get lost in. For the growing number of older adults stepping in to help with childcare responsibilities, this time of year is a great opportunity for seniors to nurture those intergenerational connections with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends, or neighbors.
If you’re looking to make the most of these moments, check out our list of great reads for grandkids. Discover five read-aloud recommendations for sharing daily interaction with your younger loved ones to inspire a love of reading.
Benefits of Intergenerational Learning
We all know the benefits of reading apply to all ages, but for older adults sharing this experience with younger generations – it can have a powerful impact on their future success. Consider the evidence shared in a recent article by The Center on Reinventing Public Education (CRPE), a research organization at Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College.
Guest author, Adam Brown references the benefits of intergenerational learning across the world, noting that:
“Research worldwide has shown that intergenerational learning can boost children’s social skills, increase school attendance, deepen knowledge of culture and history, and accelerate academic learning, while also providing socio-emotional and health benefits to older adults.”
The simple act of reading together can not only strengthen social bonds between seniors and children but can also contribute to a solid foundation for learning. Children rely on the contributions of older generations for their academic success, especially when grandparents have a strong presence in their lives.
If you’re looking for meaningful ways to share wisdom, expertise, and experience with younger generations, the following list of five read-aloud recommendations can be enjoyed by seniors and kids alike.
By: Jane Yolen
Illustrated by: John Schoenherr
Published: 1987
Details: Ideal for readers ages two to seven or preschool through second grade. This book is a 1988 Caldecott winner. (32 pages)
This book is a wonderful option for bedtime with little ones or even elementary-aged children who enjoy a story with a bit of mystery. Owl Moon tells the tale of a young girl’s experience wandering the woods late at night with her father who is calling for owls. The pair calmly and quietly walk together hoping for a glimpse of the elusive owls.
Yolen’s compelling descriptions and beautiful watercolor illustrations are captivating in this story, which can bring a hush throughout the room as you turn each page. Seniors and their younger readers will take a journey through the forest as they read but may feel curious enough to begin their own night exploration. A trip to the library for related non-fiction reads about owls, forests, and other nature-connected learning topics can be the next step for further learning.
Richard Scarry’s Busy, Busy Town
Written & illustrated by: Richard Scarry
Published: 2000
Details: Ideal for readers ages two to four years or preschool through second grade.
Richard Scarry’s iconic characters and open-ended style make this book a fantastic choice for engaging seniors and even the youngest of readers with shorter attention spans. It can be read forward or backward or picked up and started right from the middle, which is ideal for a quick reading session when time is limited.
Readers will enjoy Scarry’s sense of humor while exploring community roles, landscapes, and responsibilities. It will be well-placed on any coffee table or common room bookshelf to serve as a fun conversation starter for younger children. Themes to discuss between grandparents and kids can include teamwork, safety, cooperation, doing your best, and working together. The book itself is generously sized and offers lots of learning opportunities on every page – perfect for older adults who may not see their youngest loved ones that often but are looking to connect.
Scarry’s books feature some small text that may be difficult to read for older adults with vision challenges. Consider reading with magnifying glasses, which can be a fun and helpful alternative for younger children and seniors open to the idea.
By: Sarah Stewart
Pictures by: David Small
Published: 1997
Details: Ideal for ages five to nine years old, this book was a 1998 Caldecott Honor Book (40 pages)
What makes this book so unique is the way the storyline is told through letters back and forth between the main character and her parents and grandmother. Seniors may be inspired to correspond with their own grandchildren after reading!
The Gardener is a gardener’s delight. It’s filled with whimsical illustrations of a city garden masterpiece and set during the Depression era, in the summer of 1935, which may stir questions from young readers. For older readers with memories, experiences, and family stories to share from that time in history (or their own decades), the story can be used for thoughtful reflection and conversation. It can be enjoyed by readers of all ages but may be easier to follow for grade level one and above.
For active seniors who enjoy tending a garden, don’t read this book with your grandchildren without planting a few flower seeds in an unlikely pot and watching them grow!
By: Matt De La Pena
Illustrated by: Christian Robinson
Published: 2015
Details: Ideal for children ages two to six years old. This book was a winner of the 2016 Newbery Medal and received the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor, and a Caldecott Honor.
The power of human connection is shared through simple storytelling and bold, brilliant illustrations in this book that highlight the discoveries hiding in everyday interactions. A message of diversity and empathy resounds as a grandmother and her grandson share perspectives travelling their city streets. This book celebrates community and offers a wonderful opportunity to chat with young readers about the value of things unseen – beauty, service, and love.
The shorter, straightforward wording is easy to read for older adults who may prefer less text when reading aloud.
Grandma Gatewood Hikes the Appalachian Trail
By: Jennifer Thermes
Published: 2018
Details: Ideal for children ages five to seven or reading levels of kindergarten through second grade. (48 pages)
The story of Emma Rowena Gatewood, known as “Grandma Gatewood,” will inspire readers young and old to try something new. Set along the 2,168-mile Appalachian Trail in 1955, the book chronicles the adventurous spirit of Grandma Gatewood who completed a solo trek across the entirety of the trail at age 67. Readers will enjoy Gatewood’s grit and resilient spirit and a powerful message that dispels the stereotypes of aging. The book is beautifully illustrated and packed full of fun facts about the Appalachian Trail, a bonus for any outdoor-minded seniors.
Outdoor-minded seniors will enjoy this inspiring true story which tells the tale of Emma Rowena Gatewood, known as “Grandma Gatewood,” and her solo trek across the entirety of the 2,168-mile Appalachian Trail in 1955 at age 67. The book features beautiful illustrations with map details of actual trails, facts, and real photos. The story promotes positive aging and is a showcase of the strength and power of a resilient spirit at any age.
Seniors and caregivers looking for additional tips and ideas for cultivating relationships and intergenerational connections can subscribe to Stoney Brook’s blog for valuable free resources. Schedule a visit to any of our assisted living and memory care communities in Texas and experience our maintenance-free, relationship-centered lifestyle. Contact us today!