Why Storybooks Are Important For 6 To 8 Year Olds
As writers, readers, and authors, we are biased towards storybooks, and we know what a gift it can be for a child.
Developing lifelong readers starts from when they are babies, as we read to them bedtime stories and their ABCs to help develop their language.
Each stage of a child’s development has its own special magic, and today we focus on the exciting chapter of the 6- to 8-year-olds. They have moved out of their terrible twos (and threes), and their little characters are growing and forming rapidly, both from an emotional and intellectual standpoint.
As the child grows and discovers who they are going to be, their books should also reflect their ever-expanding world to assist them in learning about the world around them.
The Magic of Storytelling For 6 to 8 year olds
At this age, the development of their persona and agency is becoming more distinct. As they start making friends in school and meeting more people, they will be influenced by them in some way.
Their vocabulary is growing, and we can create a slightly more complex storyline for them. The themes start to reflect the nuances of the world around them. They are also beginning to understand that life is not one-dimensional, and their emotional maturity allows them to connect with more intricate stories.
They begin to choose their own books, often influenced by school recommendations, friends, or the interests of older siblings. This newfound agency means they can start relating to the characters and imagine themselves in the narrative.
While younger children thrive on simple, repetitive phrases, children aged 6 to 8 benefit from recurring themes, characters, or storylines. This is why series are so popular at this stage. They provide a sense of familiarity while still offering fresh adventures.
What Makes a Great Book for 6 to 8 year olds?
Parents often ask us what the best books are for 6-year-olds and above, and the answer lies in finding a balance between relatable characters, imaginative adventures, and meaningful themes. When selecting books for this age group, these are the few key elements to consider:
1. Believable Characters
Whether the protagonist is a pirate, an astronaut, or a magical creature, there should be aspects of the character that feel relatable. Authors will often include elements such as a sidekick friend or pet, or something easily recognisable for most children, like food items, if the story is set in a fantasy land. This helps bridge the gap between imagination and reality, providing a connection that encourages children to engage with the story.
2. Imaginative Storytelling
While relatability is essential, the story itself should stretch the imagination. A book about a child going to school and doing homework will not hold their attention well. Instead, think of stories where the sky turns pink, flowers sing, or animals talk. These imaginative elements captivate young readers and keep them entertained, building on common elements in their lives.
3. Themes That Matter
As they navigate new social dynamics, they make friends and learn empathy. Books that explore themes like friendship, kindness, and inclusivity can help them understand these experiences. Especially if they are going to be a big brother or sister for the first time, stories can help them better understand the significant changes that are about to happen to their family.
4. Depth and Complexity
The books for 6- to 8-year-olds have more depth than those for younger children, to match their growth and maturity. Characters become multidimensional, and the storylines should offer opportunities for children to think critically and emotionally engage with the narrative. These books also start to provide more openings to ask questions, giving the child a way to explore further and also to have that special bonding time as they read the book.
5. Language and Structure
The vocabulary and sentence structure in these books become more complex. Longer sentences and more sophisticated words help children develop their language skills and prepare them for more advanced reading and academic work in schools.
The Power of Personalization
One of the most magical ways to engage children at this age is through personalized books for 6- to 8-year-olds. When a child sees their name in a story, it becomes more than just a book. It becomes their book. At StoryVerse Land, we aim to allow the children to see themselves as the hero of the story, building both agency and self-worth through our personalization options.
In addition, personalized books make wonderful keepsakes. They capture a moment in time, creating a memory that children and parents can cherish for years to come. Whether it’s a gift from a parent, aunt, uncle, or grandparent, a personalized book is a meaningful way to celebrate a child’s unique identity and is an excellent gift for the child to cherish.
How to Choose the Right Book for Your Child
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect book for your child. Here are a few questions to guide your decision:
1. What Does Your Child Love Right Now?
Children’s interests change pretty quickly. One day, they might be obsessed with trucks, and the next, they are dreaming of becoming a ballerina. Choose a book that aligns with their current key passions, making it easier for them to pick up the storybook.
2. What Is Your Child Like?
Is your child shy or outgoing? A story about a very outgoing character might not resonate with a shy child. Instead, look for stories that match their personality or slightly beyond their comfort zone to encourage them to step out slowly and gently, with baby steps.
3. What Values Do You Want to Encourage?
If you’re looking to teach a specific value, such as courage or empathy, choose a book that features those themes. Here at StoryVerse Land, we focus on ten core values, and each of our books carries one of these ten values.
Why Books Matter?
As parents and caregivers – grandparents, aunts and uncles, we have the opportunity to make storytelling a magical experience for our children. Whether it’s through a personalized book or a classic storybook for 6-year-olds and beyond, the right book can open doors to a lifetime of wonder and imagination.
Storytelling is more than just entertainment. It is a lifelong tool for learning and connection. We believe that once a reader, always a reader. Their interests will come and go, depending on the season of their life, but they will know books will always be there for them.
For 6- to 8-year-olds, it’s a way to explore the world, understand their emotions, and develop key literacy skills. We can nurture their imagination, foster empathy, and create lasting memories with a variety of books.
So, the next time you’re looking for an activity or a gift that is both educational and fun, consider the magic of storytelling. It’s a gift that will stay with your child long after the last page is turned.