Age-Appropriate Books for Kids: Problem and Solution

Mission: How to find age-appropriate reads for your kids and defend your kids’ minds. 

Introduction: Let’s start with a scenario: 

You go to the library with your child. You check out a good stack of books, and your child is excited to begin reading all these new books. Maybe your child isn’t a big reader, so as a homeschool parent, you’re just excited they want to read. Or maybe your child is a voracious reader, so this situation is old hat. 

You go home, and your child begins reading his or her new books. Then they come to you with concerns about the content within the book. Panic ensues, and you’re left staggering at the content that your child just accidentally read. 

Substance: No matter the cause, you need to know the facts behind the publishing industry for children’s books. Inappropriate content is continually on the rise in books. Many children’s books are now submerged in graphic sexual content and perverse language. These books sometimes include LGBTQ content or gratuitous violence as well. As the parent, what should you do if your child loves the library but comes home with troubling books? 

Implementation: There is a solution! First, you must be aware as the parent. Second, if you feel your child is old enough, please have an open conversation with them. Teach them how to be wise when it comes to reading these disturbing materials. Foster a sense of strength and confidence in your child when it comes to making the right decision. My parents did this for me, and it has helped me stand firm in my values.  

Third, access resources to help you. Websites like Common Sense Media are excellent for parents and children who want to check age-appropriate levels of all types of media, including literature. You can use our Book List to help you as well. Note: Some of the books include intense themes and may include very minor language. 

Next, access homeschool curricula. Curricula like Sonlight, Charlotte Mason, or The Good and the Beautiful can help you. Not only will these programs give you access to age-appropriate literature, but most, if not all, of these books are quality, high-standard literature that will develop your child into a well-read person. I fondly think of the Sonlight books that I read. These books developed me into the avid reader that I am today. Thus, there are appropriate options, but you have to look for them! 

Conclusion/Motivation: Are you ready as a parent to defend your child against a culture that seeks to disrupt innocent children’s minds? First, you must be aware. Second, you must openly communicate with your child. Third, you must access available resources for excellent literature. Not all hope is lost. You can find good books for your child that educate, expand, and empower their minds!