If you’re teaching a child whose first language is not Filipino, it may seem daunting to start. But you can make it fun by learning together with your child through books!
(I’ve shared a post earlier about different ways you can start introducing Filipino. You may wanna check that out too!)
Of course, speaking the language regularly helps the most. But another great way to supplement this is by reading fun books in Filipino. Reading Filipino books helps improve vocabulary and comprehension. It also familiarizes your child to the language.
And here’s the good news: we are blessed to have SO MANY wonderful local Filipino books for kids!
Here’s a list of our personal top 25 favorites. Things to note before you read the list:
- These books are all in Filipino. Some are bilingual and have English translations, but some don’t.
- They are also all storybooks. This means, I didn’t include simple word books.
- If your child is a pre-reader or beginner, it would be best to read these titles aloud!
25 Filipino Books for Kids
- Ako si Kaliwa, Ako si Kanan by Russell Molina
- Ang Alamat ng Palay by Virgilio S. Almario
- Ang Kural na Bahay by Genaro Cruz
- Ang Mabait na Kalabaw by Virgilio S. Almario
- Ang Maliit na Kalabaw by Liza Flores
- Ang Mahiyaing Manok by Rebecca Anonuevo
- Ang Pambihirang Sombrero by Jomike Tejido
- Anong Gupit Natin Ngayon by Russell Molina
- Araw sa Palengke by May Tobias-Papa
- Asul na Araw by Pipa Escalante
- Halu-Halo Espesyal by Yvette Fernandez
- Hating Kapatid by Raissa Rivera Falgui
- Isang Mayang Uhaw by Virgilio S. Almario
- Maliit na ang Palda ni Isay: Teresa Gumap-as Dumadag
- Mang Andoy’s Signs by Mailin Paterno
- May Gulong na Bahay by Genaro Gojo Cruz
- Nemo ang Batang Papel by Rene O Villanueva
- Paano Kumain ng Kulay by Mabi David
- Pitong Tsinelas * by Divine Reyes
- Rosa Albina by Virgilio S. Almario
- Si Pagong at Si Matsing by Virgilio S. Almario
- Tight Times by Jeanette Patindol
- Tagu-Taguan: A Counting Book in Filipino * by Jomike Tejido
- The White Shoes by Grace D. Chong
- Yaya Niya, Nanay Ko by Ompong Remigio
* These two titles are technically not stories with long narratives but they have a nice unifying story theme that separates them from simple picture books. And this, for me, makes them both are worthy of a spot in this list!
Where to Buy:
- Pumplepie Books: My go-to store for Filipino books because they have a wide selection from various local publishers. Plus, the owner, Alexine, is so kind, patient and accommodating. If you have questions or are looking for recommendations, she will be more than happy to help you!
- Tahanan Books: Online Store: Publisher of a lot of beautiful local living books
- Adarna: Online Bookshop: Publisher of a lot of fun story books for kids
- Local bookstores nationwide
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RELATED POSTS:
- Introduction to Filipino for Kids (Language)
- Living Books on Philipine Culture and History for Young Kids
- How We Homeschool: 5 Years Old (Level K)
- Homeschool Room: 2020 Update