Who says classic literature is only for grown-ups?
Okay, well a lot of classic literature definitely needs to wait until a child is old enough to understand some very difficult themes – not to mention the archaic language.
But, having studied English, I also think it’s great to expose kids to these works from an early age – that way, they’re aware of them and not afraid of them when they’re older.
So, a compromise is needed, right? Right! And that’s where the BabyLit series of children’s books come in.
These books are very loosely based on classic works of fiction and each one has an educational theme that is toddler-friendly.
There are a number to choose from. For example, Wuthering Heights covers the weather; Romeo and Juliet is a counting book and Anna Karenina is about types of clothing (I think it avoids anything to do with trains, which is probably for the best).
We chose to get Alice in Wonderland, which is a colour primer.
Not only does the book give us a great way to help teach Pumpkin about colours (which we’re also working on in Sing & Sign), but the illustrations are gorgeous and the board books feel really well made.
I also love that it features many other things that Pumpkin knows signs for well – like shoes, cat, rabbit, frog and hat.
Doing the “cat” sign for the Cheshire cat (sorry it’s blury – those signs are quick!)
The “frog” sign when looking at a picture of the Frog Footman.
The sign for “hat” is one of her favourites.
We haven’t learned the sign for “caterpillar,” but I like to say “who are you” like the caterpillar in the Disney version does. “Whooooo aaaaahhhhhr yoooooou?” And I tickle her tummy on the “you”.
Little Master Carroll: Alice in Wonderland is by Jennifer Adams and Alison Oliver. It’s published by Gibbs M. Smith Inc.
After a quick check on Amazon, it looks like there are about 20 of these books to choose from – with other titles including the Jungle Book, Don Quixote and Pride and Prejudice. Click here to see the options available.
What do you think of these books? Which classic would you like to share with your toddler? I’d love to hear your thoughts – so be sure to leave a comment below.
And if you’re thinking about buying a copy of the book, please consider using my Amazon affiliate link – I’ll receive a small commission on the sale.
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