For Young Learners (Preschool-Early Elementary):
* "The Usborne Illustrated Dictionary of the English Language" by Usborne: Colorful illustrations and simple definitions make this perfect for early learners. It covers a wide range of topics and uses clear language.
* "The Oxford First Dictionary of English for Learners" by Oxford University Press: Similar to the Usborne dictionary, it offers a broad range of words with clear definitions and colorful pictures.
* "DK First Dictionary" by Dorling Kindersley: Known for its engaging visual approach, this dictionary features bright photographs and clear explanations, making it appealing to young learners.
For Elementary and Middle School Students:
* "Merriam-Webster's Visual Dictionary" by Merriam-Webster: This dictionary combines text with images to provide a deeper understanding of words and concepts. It's particularly helpful for students learning about different subjects.
* "The Oxford Children's Dictionary" by Oxford University Press: This comprehensive dictionary covers a wide range of words and includes pronunciation guides, example sentences, and word origins. It's suitable for older elementary students.
* "The American Heritage Children's Dictionary" by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt: This dictionary offers clear definitions, pronunciation guides, and helpful example sentences. It's a solid choice for students who are developing their vocabulary.
Factors to Consider When Choosing:
* Age: Consider the child's reading level and interest in different topics.
* Learning Style: Some children prefer visual learning, while others learn best through text.
* Features: Look for dictionaries that offer pronunciation guides, example sentences, and illustrations.
* Topic Focus: Some dictionaries are geared towards specific subjects, like science or history.
Beyond Print:
* Online Dictionaries: Websites like Merriam-Webster.com and Dictionary.com offer interactive dictionaries with definitions, audio pronunciation, and examples.
* Apps: There are many excellent dictionary apps for children, including "Oxford Picture Dictionary" and "Merriam-Webster Dictionary."
Ultimately, the best dictionary is the one that your child finds engaging and helpful. It's always a good idea to browse different options and let your child choose the one they like best!