Celebrated on March 21, World Children’s Day is an invitation to celebrate one of the most important stages in human life.
Created by Unicef (United Nations Children’s Fund), the date reinforces the fundamental role of childhood, when the first bonds, habits and values that accompany the individual throughout their lives are formed.
Although the ECA (Child and Adolescent Statute) considers all individuals up to 12 years of age to be children, it is in early childhood that many bases of human development are consolidated. Between birth and age 6, the brain goes through some of its most intense transformations, shaping cognitive, emotional and social skills.
Jessica Lindhorst, Elementary School I teacher at The British College of Brazil, reflects that books are essential in early childhood because they shape the way children think, imagine and understand the world. “Through stories, little ones naturally develop language, memory, empathy and critical thinking. When children are exposed to books in more than one language, this impact is even greater. Bilingual reading strengthens cognitive flexibility, expands cultural awareness and helps children build meaningful connections between different languages. In these early years, books are not just tools — they are the foundation for lasting curiosity and lifelong growth.”
More than supporting literacy, literature can function as an essential agent for the formation of the human brain, as argued by Laura Vecchioli do Prado, coordinator of Literature and Information at the Basic Education Editorial at SOMOS Educação.
The expert points out that books have the ability to expand children’s repertoire and come into direct contact with their feelings and emotions, developing important skills to understand the world around them.
“By identifying with plots and characters, children can begin to recognize emotions, understand different points of view and elaborate everyday situations. Furthermore, creating the habit of reading in early childhood can contribute to the development of imagination and critical thinking throughout life”, adds Vecchioli.
Therefore, the professional suggests that parents and guardians try to create a reading routine with their children, bringing attractive and interesting works to their education and education.
Below are some recommendations for children’s books:
1. ABC of animals: Brazilian animals, by Alexandre Azevedo – Editora Ática
Price: R$ 91.00
The alphabet, told through poems and colored by illustrations by Dora Weigand, accompanies the animals of the Brazilian fauna through the most diverse adventures, teaching about the animal universe and promoting respect for nature.
2. The jambo tree, by Margareth Darezzo – Editora Ática
Price: R$ 65.00
A jambo tree becomes the stage for a spectacle of colors when, at the end of the day, several birds seek shelter for the night. In this poem sung by Margareth Darezzo, the child learns to name and identify colors, all with great musicality.
3. Pequetudes, by Telma Guimarães – Editora Scipione
Price: R$ 60.00
Through Telma Guimarães’ sensitive writing and Gabbi Zanon’s delicate illustrations, the book brings together a series of short stories that allow children to identify everyday moments in which they can exercise empathy and solidarity. A work to work on socio-emotional issues with children.
