Create Lasting Memories with Your Whānau these Holidays, with book suggestions from our school Librarian, Tris Bondsfield.

Reading to and with your child is one of the best things you can do—not just for their learning but for your bond with them too. It’s more than just words on a page; it’s about snuggling up, laughing together, and opening up a whole world of stories, emotions, and imagination.

The Joy of Reading Together

From the very beginning, reading helps kids pick up words, understand how language works, and develop a love for stories. Even babies benefit from hearing your voice as you read. As they grow, books help them learn to focus, ask questions, and spark creativity. But the best part? It’s time spent together, away from screens and distractions, just enjoying the moment.

More Than Just Words—It’s About Feelings Too

Books are a great way to explore emotions with kids in a way that feels safe. They can meet characters going through big feelings—like being scared, excited, or sad—and learn how to handle their own emotions. Reading also helps kids develop empathy by seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. Plus, stories often present little problems to solve, which helps kids build problem-solving skills without even realizing it!

Some Awesome Books for Every Age

If you’re looking for great books, here are some top picks:

Ages 0-4:

1. Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy – Lynley Dodd (A true Kiwi classic!)

2. The Day the Crayons Quit – Oliver Jeffers (A fun, beautiful book about the crayons in your pencil case)

3. The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Eric Carle (You can’t go wrong with this one!)

4. The Book With No Pictures - A.J Novak (If you like to laugh together!)

Ages 5-7:

1. The Boy at the Back of the Class – Onjali Rauf (A book about empathy)

2. The Land of Roar – Jenny McLachlan (Gripping, adventurous)

3. Aotearoa: The New Zealand Story – Gavin Bishop (A stunning book about NZ’s history)

4. Charlie Changes into a Chicken - Sam Copeland (A funny book about friendship and learning emotional control)

Ages 8-11:

1. The Last Wild – Piers Torday (An exciting dystopian adventure Trilogy)

2. Ella on the Outside – Cath Howe (A story about learning to love who you are)

3. The Dog Runner – Bren MacDibble (A gripping survival story)

4. My Parents Cancelled My Birthday - Jo Simmonds  (Family dynamic humor)

Ages 12-15:

1. Cogheart – Peter Bunzl (A Victorian Steampunk Adventure Trilogy)

2. Day of the Whale – Rachael Delahaye (A thrilling dystopian book full of action with an environmental theme)

3. The Last Bear– Hannah Gold (A heartwarming, thought-provoking read)

4. The Memory Thieves - Darren Simpson (Adventure, thriller)

The Best Part? Making Memories

At the end of the day, reading together is about more than just books. It’s about giggling over silly rhymes, holding your little one close as they drift off to sleep, or having deep chats about a story that really resonated. These are the moments they’ll remember—long after they’ve outgrown picture books.

So grab a book, cuddle up, and enjoy the magic of reading. You’re not just raising a reader—you’re creating lifelong memories.

For additional recommendations, you can visit websites like The Book Whisperer for age-appropriate book suggestions.