Stories and tales are among the oldest and most profound literary arts in human societies. They've been recorded throughout history and have contributed significantly to revealing the human psyche and natural behaviors. Scientific and psychological studies confirm that storytelling plays a key role in shaping a child’s character, interests, beliefs, and imagination. It also helps them overcome behavioral and psychological challenges.
Dr. Mahmoud Majed, a professor of early childhood education, emphasizes the importance of choosing age-appropriate stories—from birth to age 16. These stories should help plant core values in a child’s consciousness, aid in self-discovery, and fuel their dreams and ambitions. He outlines three essential rules for choosing the right stories:
Three Golden Rules for Choosing Stories for Your Child
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Follow the principles of age-appropriate story selection.
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Look for stories that reflect positive values and principles.
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Buy and choose stories according to your child's developmental stage.
How to Choose the Right Story for Your Child
📚 A child enjoys reading a story with their parents
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Choose bedtime stories with simple and easy vocabulary so your child can either read along or understand as you read to them.
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Use engaging, colorful illustrations to draw your child’s attention, and select topics or characters that reflect their interests.
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The story should serve as a moral guide, not just a source of entertainment or skill development.
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Ensure the book includes ethical, cultural, or religious values to help build a solid character foundation.
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Factor in your child’s age, comprehension level, and interests, and choose stories that promote positive behavior and emotional intelligence.
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Look for stories that teach values such as friendship, courage, cooperation, and loyalty.
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Offer a variety of genres: fantasy, real-life stories, history, and science fiction.
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Encourage engagement by asking questions, having them retell the story, or draw related pictures.
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Don’t forget clever animal stories and tales that teach virtues like honesty, kindness, and bravery.
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Make reading a daily fun habit, using voice tones, gestures, and facial expressions to liven up the experience.
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Be a reading role model—when children see adults enjoying books, they’re more likely to read too. Encourage them to share their opinions or create drawings inspired by the stories.
What Values Should Stories Promote?
📖 A girl absorbed in an exciting story
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Positive moral values should be central to every story.
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Bright, colorful illustrations are vital—especially for younger children—to keep them engaged.
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Diverse stories enhance positive thinking and broaden a child’s worldview.
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Stories from different cultures teach tolerance, empathy, and respect for others.
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Themes like love, teamwork, and acceptance foster balanced personalities capable of healthy social interaction.
Best Stories by Age Group
👶 From Pregnancy to Age 3
👩🍼 Even in the womb, babies respond to sound. From the 5th month of pregnancy, a fetus can hear family voices. By the 7th month, consistent exposure to words can enhance brain development. After birth, tell short, soothing bedtime stories—no more than two minutes—with simple, rhythmic sentences or lullabies.
🧒 Ages 3 to 5
📘 At this stage, children begin to understand their environment. Stories should be fun, 5 minutes long, with bright illustrations and one sentence per page.
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Topics should relate to family, pets, or nature.
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Repetition is fine—it helps retain attention and enjoyment.
🧒 Ages 6 to 8
📚 Some kids may start reading on their own, but parental reading remains crucial for emotional connection.
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Stories should have a simple structure, few characters, and clear, easy-to-follow language.
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Children at this age love humor and fantasy—funny tales help reduce anxiety and build bonds.
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The message should include positive lessons like manners, family relationships, and empathy.
👦 Ages 9 to 13
📖 Children begin seeking thrilling stories and action-packed adventures—like classic detective series.
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Biographies of great scientists or historical figures also appeal to this age group.
👧 Ages 13 to 15
📙 Stories should now be emotionally engaging, told from the protagonist’s perspective, and spark empathy and reflection.
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Good choices include:
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Harry Potter series
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Goosebumps
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Popular Arabic series like Ma Waraa Al Tabiaa (Paranormal), Ragol Al Mostaheel (The Man of the Impossible), and Malaf Al Mostaqbal (The Future File)
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🧑 Ages 16 to 18
📘 Teenagers at this age are ready for adult-level books, as long as the content is appropriate and meaningful.
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Ideal genres include:
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Classic world literature
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Poetry
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Basic self-help books that motivate, inspire, and promote personal growth
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Books that teach goal setting, time management, and discovering one’s potential
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