10+ Best Parenting Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Navigating the world of a 10-year-old can be as challenging as it is rewarding. As they hover on the brink of adolescence, finding the right guidance is crucial. That’s where parenting books for 10-year-olds come into play, offering valuable insights and strategies tailored specifically to this transformative age. Curious about which books can help you connect better with your ten-year-old? Keep reading to discover our diverse lists of parenting books for 10-year-olds, each packed with expert advice to support both you and your child through this exciting stage of life.

Fun Parenting Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Through his experiences, readers learn about kindness, acceptance, and the challenges of being different.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and resilience in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers. The story encourages understanding and acceptance of others.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are facing their own challenges or who can benefit from learning about the experiences of others.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This first book in the Harry Potter series introduces Harry Potter, a young wizard who discovers his magical heritage and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Adventures and challenges await as he makes new friends and uncovers a dark mystery.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sparks imagination and introduces themes of friendship, bravery, and the importance of choices. The magical setting and intriguing plot make reading enjoyable and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magic and adventure, and anyone new to the fantasy genre.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Children’s Literature
  • Synopsis: Milo, a bored young boy, receives a mysterious tollbooth that transports him to the Kingdom of Wisdom. Here he embarks on a quest that teaches him about the joys of learning and the beauty of life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor, adventure, and learning. The story encourages curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge in a fun and imaginative way.
  • Perfect for: Children who are imaginative, curious, and maybe a bit bored with their daily routines.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic, Children’s Literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte crafts clever plans to save her friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: It explores themes of friendship, the cycle of life, and the power of words. The narrative is heartwarming and teaches valuable life lessons through charming characters.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love animals and stories about friendship and loyalty.

• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is accused of stealing Zeus’s lightning bolt. He must embark on a quest across America to find it and restore order to Olympus.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that incorporates Greek mythology in a modern setting, making learning about myths fun and accessible. It also deals with issues like dyslexia and ADHD in a positive light.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who enjoy fast-paced stories and learning about mythology.

Educational Parenting Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Matilda by Roald Dahl
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story is about Matilda, a brilliant and sensitive little girl who uses her talents to overcome neglectful parents and a tyrannical school principal.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, critical thinking, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates intelligence and creativity, showing that anyone can make a difference regardless of their age.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel misunderstood or underappreciated, and those who love stories where kids triumph.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: An orphaned girl named Mary Lennox is sent to live with her uncle, where she discovers a mysterious, neglected garden. She begins to bring the garden back to life, and in the process, transforms the lives of those around her.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, gardening knowledge, interpersonal relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a timeless story that explores themes of healing and personal growth through the beauty of nature.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy stories about discovery and transformation, and those interested in nature.

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Jesse Aarons and his friendship with his new neighbor, Leslie Burke. Together, they create a magical forest kingdom called Terabithia, where they rule as king and queen until tragedy strikes.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, creativity, coping with loss
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses complex emotions and the importance of friendship in a way that is accessible and profound for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are dealing with or learning about loss and the value of friendship.

• Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Survival, Fiction
  • Synopsis: After a plane crash, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson must survive alone in the Canadian wilderness with only a hatchet his mother gave him.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Survival skills, self-reliance, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping survival story that teaches about resilience and the power of human spirit in the face of adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and anyone interested in stories of survival and self-discovery.

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Claudia and her brother Jamie run away from home to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. They become engrossed in a mystery involving an angel statue that may be the work of Michelangelo.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, historical knowledge, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with a fascinating art mystery and encourages curiosity and independence.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love mysteries and adventures, especially those with an interest in art and history.

Challenging Parenting Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where they must solve a series of puzzles and stop a global crisis.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book features complex puzzles and moral dilemmas that require advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes teamwork, intelligence, and perseverance, making it a great read for young minds looking to be challenged and entertained.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy solving puzzles and mysteries, and those who like stories about secret missions and clever heroes.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe embark on a journey through space and time to rescue Meg's father from an evil force that threatens the universe.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces concepts of theoretical physics within a complex narrative structure, which can be intellectually stimulating for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines science and fantasy in a way that sparks imagination while also exploring deep themes like love, courage, and the battle between good and evil.
  • Perfect for: Young sci-fi fans and anyone interested in stories that blend real science with fantastical elements.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the story of Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse with large ears, who loves music and stories, and his adventures within a castle, including his love for a human princess named Pea.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative's use of sophisticated vocabulary and its themes of courage, forgiveness, and light versus darkness can be quite profound for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It is a beautifully written tale that encourages bravery and compassion, while also delighting with its whimsical and heartwarming narrative.
  • Perfect for: Children who appreciate fairy tales with deeper meanings and complex characters.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1930s Paris, this illustrated novel follows Hugo Cabret, an orphan who lives in the walls of a train station and is wrapped up in a mystery involving his late father and an automaton.
  • Why this book is challenging: The unique combination of text and intricate illustrations requires readers to interpret visual elements as part of the storytelling, enhancing their visual literacy and attention to detail.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating, visually stunning book that immerses readers in a historical era while unraveling a touching and mysterious story.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love art and puzzles, and those interested in history and machinery.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: In this tale, a young girl named Luna is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. As Luna approaches her thirteenth birthday, her magic begins to emerge with dangerous consequences.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes such as sacrifice, power, and the consequences of actions, which are woven into its rich, lyrical narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: This award-winning novel is thought-provoking and beautifully written, offering a unique twist on the classic coming-of-age story.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy intricate storytelling and magical adventures that make them think deeply about the world around them.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 10-year-old develop good reading habits, here are some fun and effective exercises that can be incorporated into their daily routine. These activities are designed to be engaging and beneficial, ensuring that reading becomes a joy and not a chore. Let’s dive in!

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or a set time to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and helps build a reading habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special place in the house as a reading area.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and inviting space dedicated to reading.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions, lights, or decorations.

• Book Club for Two
  • What it is: Schedule a weekly book club meeting between you and your child.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and strengthens your bond.
  • Tips: Choose books that are interesting for both of you to keep the discussions lively.

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: Take turns reading pages or chapters aloud to each other.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and listening skills.
  • Tips: Use different voices for different characters to make the reading more fun and engaging.

• Challenge a Friend
  • What it is: Encourage your child to challenge a friend to see who can read more books.
  • How it helps: Adds a competitive element to reading, making it more exciting.
  • Tips: Keep the competition friendly and reward both participants with small prizes.

• Track Progress with a Reading Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart to track the number of books or pages read.
  • How it helps: Visually shows progress and accomplishments, boosting motivation.
  • Tips: Place the chart in a visible area and update it together regularly.

Incorporating these exercises into your child’s routine can make reading a more enjoyable and rewarding experience. Remember, the key is consistency and making sure that reading is seen as a fun activity, not just another task. Happy reading!