Five Books to Share with Your Toddler This President’s Day

Reading to your child can be one of the most important ways to build a foundation for future academic success. Books about the presidents of the United States are especially appropriate for this time of year and can offer a valuable context for even the youngest children. The educators at Discovery Point take pride in delivering the best experiences and the safest environment for the children in our care. Here are five of our top picks for presidential books for your preschooler.

I Am Abraham Lincoln (Ordinary People Change the World) by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos

I Am Abraham Lincoln focuses on the personal side of this great American leader beginning with his early childhood and progressing through the early days of his presidency. Inspirational and full of valuable life lessons, this little book can have a big impact on young minds and can help to instill positive values for your preschool-aged children. By tracing the lessons Lincoln learned during his formative years, even the youngest children can be inspired to future greatness.

George Washington and the General’s Dog by Frank Murphy, illustrated by Richard Walz

This delightful book is based on a true story about George Washington and British General William Howe. Sure to appeal to dog lovers and fledgling history buffs alike, the book recounts the tale of how Washington found the dog wandering the battlefield after the Battle of Germantown. The dog’s collar and tags indicated that he belonged to the general on the opposing side. What Washington chose to do next will surprise and inspire your child with a beautiful example of fair play and honesty courtesy of our first president.

Who Was Theodore Roosevelt? by Michael Burgan, illustrated by Jerry Hoare and Nancy Harrison

This book is packed with information about the 26th president and offers insights into Theodore Roosevelt’s early life and achievements. The famed naturalist and soldier is one of the most colorful and charismatic individuals in all of U.S. history and is an ideal subject for this lighthearted biography. Bright and engaging illustrations and easy-to-understand concepts make this a perfect read-aloud book for toddlers and preschoolers and a read-alone favorite for children aged eight and up.

Meet Thomas Jefferson by Marvin Barrett, illustrated by Pat Fogarty

As the writer of the Declaration of Independence and the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson has had a lasting impact on our country. This book provides background on Jefferson’s early life, his law practice and his role in shaping the legal processes and documents that are the basis of our form of government. Written for children from ages six to nine, this book is an excellent introduction to one of our most beloved presidents.

National Geographic Readers: Barack Obama by Caroline Crosson Gilpin

One of the acclaimed National Geographic series of children’s presidential biographies, this book focuses on the life and experiences of President Barack Obama before and during his stay in the White House. The book features numerous photographs and captions to provide added appeal for your toddler during your shared reading time.

At Discovery Point, we work with parents to provide the most nurturing educational environment for every child. By incorporating seasonal topics into our lesson plans, we can provide your child with the context he or she needs to gain a deeper understanding of our history as a nation.