Reading advice for toddlers 1 to 3 years

Reading is a fun activity that can be enjoyed at any time of day, not just at bedtime. Toddlers learn through play, so allow your child to access books at their level. 

Around this age, your child may begin to enjoy being read longer stories. Encourage your child to join in when reading the story. Point out the pictures, ask them what they see or what they think could happen next. Pause and give them time to process an answer, even if your child isn’t able to verbalise a response.

Don’t feel pressured to finish a book if your child is not enjoying it. Try again at another time or try another book.

Further resources:

• Find advice for more reading stages on our Literacy and reading resources for families page
• Register for the 1000 Books Before School program on our 1000 Books Before School page
• Explore more recommended reads on our Booklists page
• Visit our Toddler 1 to 3 years page for more information and services for you and your child.

Book recommendations

Programs for toddlers 1 to 3 years

We offer a range of events and activities for children.

To find events and programs:

• Visit our Children's Storytimes and activities page 
• Find out about upcoming events by following our Eventbrite page-external site
• Subscribe to our newsletter by filling in our What's On newsletter subscription form-external site
• Follow our Facebook page, Twitter account, or Instagram account.