Parents across the UK are passing down cherished childhood books to the next generation, as revealed in a recent survey. Over 2,000 parents with pre-school-aged children expressed their desire for their little ones to enjoy the same stories they read growing up. Classics like The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell, and Elmer by David McKee are making a comeback as parents reimmerse themselves in these tales alongside their children.
In response to the survey findings, childcare organisation Busy Bees has compiled a ‘top 40 books’ list for parents seeking inspiration on what to read next with their children. The list is a key component of Busy Bees’ new curriculum, Bee Curious, designed to foster a lifelong love for learning through interactive play and storytelling techniques. Gill Jones MBE, the group’s chief quality officer, emphasised the importance of storytelling in children’s development, underscoring its role in enhancing communication skills and understanding the world around them.
Bedtime remains a favourite time for parents to engage in reading sessions with their children, where they average 21 minutes per day reading together. The bonding experience is cherished by 97% of parents, noting the educational and relational value of these interactions. Despite the joy derived from reading, 35% of parents struggle to discover new stories for their children, prompting initiatives like Busy Bees’ ‘book-u-lator’ tool to aid in selecting fresh reading material.
Notably, 72% of parents noted that their child has a preferred book they wish to hear repeatedly, aiding in language skill development. While repetition is beneficial, with 27% of parents enjoying the re-reading process, nearly half (49%) admitted to skipping sections to expedite the session. Seeking diverse reading options, parents rely on libraries, recommendations from nurseries, and tools like Busy Bees’ resources to introduce new stories to their children.
The love for storytelling endures as parents share their beloved childhood books with their little ones, illustrating the power of literature in shaping early development and fostering strong parent-child relationships.