“From there to here, and here to there, funny things are everywhere” – Dr. Seuss
When your little one started smiling, you were no doubt, delighted! And then came those cute chuckles and you nearly melted at the sight!! Back then it was easy to get them to laugh like that; a simple Peek-a-boo would do. But as your child grows into toddlerhood, the same things don’t work anymore. Her sense of humor is developing and she can take in slightly more advanced humor.
Why is a sense of humor so important for kids? Actually, it’s equally important for adults, according to experts! A sense of humor helps in building a positive outlook for life, and reduces stress and anxiety. People with a good sense of humor are also found to have lower chances of depression and better overall health, perhaps due to a stronger immune system.
As for kids, experts say that a sense of humor is something that is developed and not inherited. This means you can take steps to develop your toddler’s sense of humor, and the easiest way is through books!!
Top 10 Funny books for Kids
Toddlers often find something unusual funny, for example, if you put a pair of shorts on your head instead of a hat, she’ll crack up instantly. Gross things also tickle her funny bone, the more disgusting the better! Physical comedy also works, like the kind where a character slips on a banana and shoots straight into the trash can. Don’t forget potty humor!! Here is a list of books for some chuckle time for your toddler!
1. Moo, Baa, La la la!
This best selling book is sure to be a hit with the younger set. The animals’ expressions as they go about making noises are hilarious! With little text and more focus on pictures, this book is sure to retain their attention!
2. No, David!
If you’re in the middle of the terrible twos where ‘No’ is the official word of your home, this book will have both of you in splits!! David is a very imaginative little boy who cares little about societal niceties like wearing clothes outside his home. David’s exasperated mother keeps saying ‘No’, but to no avail!
3. There is a Bird on your Head!
An award winning book in the Elephant and Piggie series, this one follows the adventures of the anxious elephant, Gerald and the happy go lucky Piggie. Needless to say, when a bird lands on Gerald’s head, he freaks out! It’s up to Piggie to help now!
4. Don’t let the Pigeon drive the Bus!
This is a classic book that has delighted kids for years and for good reason! Now why would the bus driver be worried that the pigeon might take over? Because he is one persistent pigeon who’ll try anything to get to drive!! Toddlers will relate to the times they’ve pestered and begged to get their own way!!
5.Dinosaur vs. the Potty
Whether you’re in the midst of potty training or already past it, your toddler will love this book! Like millions of kids around the world, the dinosaur in the book will not go potty even if he’s ‘feeling it’ – very relatable to toddlers who end up doing the ‘potty dance’!
6. The Day the Crayons Quit
This book features Duncan who, like your toddler, likes to color with his crayons. Imagine his state when the crayons go on strike one fine day! The crayons’ complaints are sure to make your toddler tickle, and reinforce the names of colors in the process!
7. Bark, George!
George is a little puppy, but unfortunately he has an identity crisis!! For kids who’re used to the animal noises in the Old McDonald’s song, this will be a riot! George mews like a cat and moos like a cow; anything but bark!
8. Animals should definitely not wear Clothing
Toddlers are famous for stripping the instant they’re dressed! If your little one has ever asked why the cat doesn’t have to wear anything, here’s your answer! Amusing pictures explain why this is such a bad idea for animals!
9. The Hiccupotamus
Toddlers find people hiccupping funny, so they’re bound to enjoy this book. A poor Hippo can’t help his hiccups, which are massive resulting in some hilarious consequences!! The rhyming text makes this perfect for the age group.
10. Green Eggs and Ham
Last but not least, the master of ridiculousness – Dr. Seuss! While all his books are thoroughly entertaining, this one deserves special mention for it’s completely whacky plot and prose. Sam-I-am insists on trying this odd delicacy; let’s see how long your toddler can resist him!
Now you have a pretty good idea what to get your toddler to bring on the laughs! Just remember to stay away from complicated plots or things that might scare her; after all you know your child best!
Article By Fabida Abdulla