[For 2-year-olds] Let's read together! Recommended picture books for March

20 years of experience as a nursery teacher / kindergarten teacherhiyoko sensei
I’m Hiyoko-sensei, a former nursery school teacher from Hyogo Prefecture. Ever since I was five, my dream was to become a childcare worker, and before I knew it, 20 years had passed since I achieved that dream. Through singing and playing with the children, I kept working with the spirit of someone in their twenties, even as I increasingly felt my physical limits year by year (haha). From here on, I’d like to share helpful information carefully and thoughtfully, drawing on my on-site experience.
Nursery Teacher Mom Writertsukada moe
After working for five years at an after-school childcare club and three years at a nursery school, I began working as a freelance writer. I’m a mother of two children. Inspired by playing the flute in the school wind ensemble in elementary school, I joined a jazz club at university. I’ve also incorporated ukulele and piano performance into childcare. Playing, laughing, feeling sad, feeling frustrated—through all kinds of experiences, I want children to grow.

When children turn two, the full-fledged preparation for moving up to the preschool class begins in March.

They’ll have more opportunities to interact with friends within a group and to learn.

This time, we’re introducing picture books that are perfect for March.

With the pleasant, springlike weather, March makes you want to go out and explore.

It would be lovely if picture books could help children feel the season and enjoy the excitement of going on outings.

There are many books that work well as an introduction—for example, reading a picture book before outdoor activities.

Teachers, please join the children in feeling that excitement together.

[For 2-Year-Olds] Let’s Read Together! Recommended Picture Books for March (21–30)

dot dot dotWakayama Shizuko

amzn.asia

The picture book “Ten Ten Ten,” with its gentle illustrations and rhythmic words, is perfect for one-year-old children.

The repeated phrases invite kids to imitate them, and they’ll be drawn in as they react to the insects that appear—there’s no doubt they’ll be captivated by the book’s charm.

The cover and interior pages are sturdy, so children can turn the pages themselves and enjoy it.

If you read it slowly while watching their reactions, you may find yourselves enjoying it together.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Sun, hahahaKazuo Maekawa

amzn.asia

With its standout yellow cover illustration, “Ohisama Ahaha” is a picture book that will make kids smile without even trying.

No matter the situation, the characters in the book always reply with a cheerful “Ahaha” and a big smile.

It’s a delightful read where the smiles spread to the reader, too.

Simple, warm, and easy to read, it’s perfect for sharing with children.

It’s sure to become a favorite.

We also recommend reading it while inserting your child’s name—like, “Ahaha, [Child’s Name]!”

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

It’s a strawberry.Makoto Kawabata

amzn.asia

Let me introduce the picture book “It’s a Strawberry,” perfect for children who love strawberries.

Strawberries are red, sweet, and easy to eat since you don’t have to peel them.

I think many kids like them.

This picture book is packed with adorable strawberries, and when you finish reading, you’ll feel like eating some! If your child isn’t a fan of strawberries, there are sister titles like “It’s a Banana” and “It’s an Apple,” so be sure to pick a picture book featuring their favorite fruit!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Hina dolls for everyoneText by Yuichi Kimura / Illustrations by Ichiko Fuyuno

amzn.asia

Perfect for the spring Hina Matsuri season, the picture book “Minna de Ohinasama” features adorable illustrations and easy-to-understand content.

It’s a great introduction for one-year-olds who are learning about Hina dolls for the first time, letting them feel and enjoy the tradition.

Since it’s an interactive lift-the-flap style book, children can also enjoy the fun of turning the pages.

You can watch the Hina display come together, making it a wonderful recommendation for enjoying seasonal festivities with children through a picture book.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

HelloText: Shigeo Watanabe / Illustrations: Yasuo Ohtomo

amzn.asia

Here’s an introduction to the picture book “Hello,” recommended for one-year-olds who, by March, are starting to enjoy chatting a little more.

In this book, the main character, a little bear, says “Hello” to everything he encounters.

Because it’s a book about greetings, you’ll find yourself naturally bowing and saying “Hello” as you read it aloud.

Watching the children listen while bowing along with the adults creates such a warm, heartwarming atmosphere.

Please give it a read together!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

warm and cozyHiroyuki Arai

amzn.asia

The picture book “Pokapoka,” perfect for spring, is wonderfully appealing with its clear illustration style and rhythmic, repeating words.

Just as spring brings grasses, flowers, and insects bustling to life, pay attention to the warm, watchful sun as well.

When reading the book, the key is to read gently, as if speaking to the plants and insects.

In the part that says, “It’s spring—wake up,” you might try adding the names of spring insects or flowers you found on a walk, even if they don’t appear in the book.

Doing so can expand the story and make it feel more familiar and close.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Delicious Hina DollsText: Asae Suto / Illustrations: Yukiko Kobayashi

amzn.asia

When it comes to picture books to read in March, Hina Matsuri (Doll’s Festival) books are the obvious choice.

This one, titled “A Delicious Hina Matsuri,” is perfect for three-year-olds who are starting to take an interest in seasonal events.

Little Mouse and Little Squirrel look at the Hina dolls and each make something of their own.

As the title suggests, the “delicious” aspect is a big draw that captivates children as they read.

Through this book, kids can enjoyably get a feel for the history and traditions of Hina Matsuri, so be sure to give it a read!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem