Whether print books or e-books are better for children is a topic of intense discussion. The article “Ebook or Paper Book: What’s Best for Young Children” claims that parents are more likely to incorporate reading skills and that comprehension is often higher with print books. However, when done correctly, e-books may be read independently, be more entertaining, and support early reading skills.
16 Benefits of Children’s E-Books Over Printed Booksprovides further justifications for why ebooks are worthwhile. These include direct access to more interactive elements or additional information on a topic of interest, sound effects that are especially appealing to younger children, and the option to select your own journey. Because you can store hundreds of books on your tablet that you would never be able to fit in your luggage, e-books are much more convenient for travelers. They are also more environmentally friendly than print books.
However, not every children’s e-book offers the same value and advantages to the reader. Seek out e-books that help you, as the parent, engage your older reader or educate your child early literacy skills. Steer clear of books with games that divert attention from the narrative.
Best Ebook Sites for Children 0-5
Good Night Moon and Sandra Boyton’s Moo, Ba, La, La, La books are among the many well-known baby board books available on Loud Crow Apps for the youngest kids. Read-to-me modes, word highlighting, pop-out or interactive elements, and musical soundtracks are among the features.
With the help of the PBS Ebook App, your young children will love bringing their favorite PBS characters—like Elmo, Daniel Tiger, or Sid the Science Kid—to life.The Multi-Novelty Book Collection from Simon & Schuster features well-known figures including Paw Patrol and Spider-Man.
Mom’s Choice, Parent’s Choice, Academic’s Choice, Techwithkids.com, and other organizations have recognized Ocean House Media with honors. They have a large collection of Little Critters, Berenstain Bears, and Dr. Seuss books. With highlighted narrative and tappable words and images, their books promote literacy skills.
Best Ebook Sites for Children 6-10
scientific Picture Bookseach offers information on a variety of physical scientific subjects. After learning about scientific ideas and their practical applications, readers can take part in STEM-based experiments that help them remember the material.
Hundreds of early reading-level e-books with English and Spanish narration are available for free via Unite for Literacy. Foods, animals, fundamental science, sports, automobiles, and holiday festivities are among the subjects covered. The group is committed to giving every child a large collection of books that honor their languages and cultures and foster a passion of reading that lasts a lifetime.
Families can check out one book every day with Get Epic’s free plan. Books include notable chapter series like Wings of Fire as well as learn-to-read books. There are audio recordings of several book selections.
Story Mentors was created especially to assist readers who struggle. Participants are guided through reading skills through the 25-book tiered reader series. They are paired with a qualified mentor who supports the youngster and helps with reading skills.
Image: pav1007 through 123RF
Best Ebook Sites for Children 11-15
The epubBooks website offers free e-books, most of which are classics. This website features Animal Farm, Dracula, Little Women, Moby Dick, War of the Worlds, and many more.Classics including The Great Gatsby, Pollyanna, and Tale of Two Cities are also available for free on Planet eBook.
Bookmate, Kindle Unlimited, and Scribd are subscription websites. To test out the features and book selection, each offers a free trial. A limited number of free books and discounts on best-selling books are typically included with subscriptions.
Check With Your Local Library and Child s School
The majority of nearby libraries and educational institutions offer at least one way to check out e-books. You can access thousands of titles with just your library card if your local library is a partner. Each will have distinct titles and various check-out time policies. Among the choices are:
- Hoopla partners with local libraries to provide free ebooks, including National Geographic kids, Fancy Nancy, and hundreds of Disney titles.
- OverDrive offers millions of ebook titles through local libraries and schools. You can read books on many platforms, including iPhones, iPads, Android, Chromebooks, Windows 8 & 10, and Kindle Fire HD. It is a costly program, and not all libraries will offer it.
- The Libby App by OverDrive also offers a large selection of ebooks but is limited on what devices it is compatible with currently only Android and iOS phones or tablets. Smaller libraries may opt for this less expensive option.
- Sora, by OverDrive is offered at many public schools. It offers an extensive collection of books and reading stats, the ability to highlight text and make notes, and sync with classroom assignments.
Giving your child access to an enlarged library of books may be simple, enjoyable, and affordable with e-books. They can support struggling readers, educate early reading skills, or foster a stronger connection with the books because to their useful features. Enjoy your reading!