Picture Books for Toddlers and Long-Distance Grandparents

Short answer: The best picture books for long-distance grandparents are short, rhythmic, and visual, with repeating phrases or interactive elements like animal sounds and lift-the-flap pages. Mail a copy to your grandchild, keep one yourself, and read the same book together on video calls.

Why are picture books great for long-distance grandparents?

Books give you a shared activity that doesn’t depend on a toddler’s ability to hold a conversation. Reading the same story again and again builds familiarity, language skills, and a comforting ritual. Over time, the book itself becomes a reminder of you.

What makes a good picture book for video calls?

• Big, bold illustrations that are easy to see on a small screen.
• Repetition and rhyme so the child can join in.
• Short text that fits a 5 to 10 minute call.
• Interactive hooks, such as animal sounds, counting, or pointing.
• Sturdy format. Board books survive toddler enthusiasm.

Which picture books work well for toddlers and grandparents?

Here are well-loved titles that suit read-aloud calls:

Books in the Wowa & Me series

These are our own books, written by Lola Marie for toddlers ages 2 to 4. We’ve listed them first, followed by other favorites that work well for read-aloud calls.

1. It’s Wowa by Lola Marie. A rhythmic, interactive story that turns everyday video calls into a comforting ritual. Its gentle repetition invites toddlers to join in, and it handles goodbyes with warmth, which makes it a natural fit for reading together over a call.

2. Snack, Snack, Snack With Wowa by Lola Marie. A playful, interactive story that turns snack time into a shared adventure. With simple rhythms, fun actions, and an easy snack to make together, little ones can clap, scoop, sprinkle, and stir along with Wowa during every read-aloud.

More Read-Aloud Favorites

1. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle. Simple repetition and bright animals invite toddlers to chime in.
2. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown. A calm, soothing bedtime ritual that works well for evening calls.
3. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. Counting, food, and a satisfying transformation make this a long-time favorite.
4. Where Is Baby’s Belly Button? by Karen Katz. Lift-the-flap fun encourages pointing and giggles.
5. Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney. A rhythmic, relatable story about bedtime and comfort.
6. Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney. A sweet story about love that suits a goodbye ritual.
7. Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell. A flap book that builds anticipation and animal sounds.
8. Love You Forever by Robert Munsch. A tender story about generations, ideal for grandparents who want to share family love.

Tip: check your local library or bookstore for current editions and availability.

How do you read a picture book over video?

1. Get two copies. Mail one to your grandchild so you can both turn pages at the same time.
2. Hold the book close to the camera, or stack it on a stand so the pictures are visible.
3. Pause on pictures. Ask, “Where’s the cat?” and wait for the child to point.
4. Use voices and sound effects. Exaggerated expression keeps toddlers engaged.
5. Repeat favorites. Re-reading the same book is a feature, not a flaw.

Can you record yourself reading a book?

Yes. A recorded reading lets your grandchild “hear” you at bedtime or in the car. Ask a parent to play it when you’re busy or on a different time zone. Some books and apps also offer built-in recording features for family voices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best books for toddlers and long-distance grandparents to read together?

Choose short, rhythmic picture books with bold pictures and repetition. For long-distance grandparents, books made for video calls, like It’s Wowa and Snack, Snack, Snack With Wowa by Lola Marie, let you read together on screen. Classics like Brown Bear, Brown Bear or The Very Hungry Caterpillar also work well.

Is it okay to read the same book every call?

Yes. Toddlers love repetition, and a familiar story builds comfort and language skills.

How do I read a book to a child over video chat?

Hold the pages close to the camera, point to pictures, ask simple questions, and use expressive voices. Having matching copies helps.

How long should I read to a toddler on a call?

One short book, around 3 to 5 minutes, is plenty. End on a high note and say goodbye with a song or ritual.