One of my favorite activities with my kids was reading books together. One of the reasons I enjoyed it was that I could sit! Moms are busy and often on their feet. Having some moments to sit and read for a child who will sit still and listen is a winning combination.

As I write picture books, I think of the children who might be listening to the story and looking at the pictures, but I also think about the adults who are reading the words and turning the pages. An author of picture books needs to remember that she is writing for two audiences—the child and the reader. That is why I love the opportunity to write picture books that are specifically designed for parents or grandparents to read to their children.

I have talked about the following books on this blog before, but with Mother’s Day only weeks away, I wanted to feature them again.

My Grandma and Me—Rhyming Devotions for You and Your Grandchild  was published by Tyndale in 2012. This kid-friendly picture book features a Bible verse, a short rhyming devotion explaining the theme of the verse, and an interactive song or prayer. Included in the introduction are tips and helps for grandmas to share the book with grandchildren who are far-away. The book is recommended for ages 3-5.

My Mama and Me—Rhyming Devotions for You and Your Child was published by Tyndale House in 2013. I had the pleasure of writing this book with my daughter, Teri McKinley. Written specifically for mother and child, My Mama and Me is designed around four common questions that kids ask: Can you tell me about God? Can you tell me about Jesus? What does God think about me? How can I show God that I love Him? Through 25 rhyming devotions and fun activities, Mom can answer these questions and more. Each devotion includes a short Bible verse and a prayer. Recommended for ages 3-5.

If you are a mom or grandma with little ones to read to, or if you know a mom or grandma with children to read to, these books can help bring moms, grandmas, and kids closer to each other and closer to God.

And by the way—I know that dads and grandpas read to kids too, and someday I hope to have picture books for them!

Crystal