As adults, we make inferences all the time. We read between the lines, so to speak, in order to understand what someone really means, or to figure out what’s going on in a given situation. But teaching children how to make inferences is an important skill, too—one that will serve them well as they learn to read and comprehend more complex texts. Luckily, there are plenty of great picture books out there that can help teach this essential reading skill! Here are five of our favorites.
Picture Books for Inferences
The Bear Ate Your Sandwich by Julia Sarcone-Roach: This hilarious book follows a bear as he tries unsuccessfully to steal a sandwich from a picnic lunch. Through the course of the story, young readers are able to make inferences about the bear’s thoughts and motivations.
Chester’s Way by Kevin Henkes: Chester and Wilson are best friends who do everything together. When Chester learns how to do something a different way, he starts to think that maybe his way is better than Wilson’s—until he realizes that difference doesn’t have to mean better or worse. This book highlights the importance of considering other people’s perspectives.
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Flotsam by David Wiesner: When a boy finds a camera washed up on the beach, he develops the film and discovers that it contains mysterious underwater photos. With rich language and stunning illustrations, this wordless picture book invites readers of all ages to use their inference skills to imagine what might have happened beneath the waves.
Make sure you check out this resource all about using Flotsam!
Stellaluna by Janell Cannon: When an orphaned bat is taken in by a family of birds, she has a hard time fitting in—until she learns that even though they may be different, they can still be friends. This classic tale about acceptance and understanding is sure to resonate with young readers.
Building inference skills helps children become stronger readers and thinkers. And luckily, there are plenty of great picture books out there that can help teach this essential reading skill! The next time you’re looking for a good read-aloud for your students (or your own little ones at home), be sure to give one of these titles a try. If you are searching for some more ideas for reading, check out other blog posts that I have!
