Babies and toddlers are like sponges, they absorb information so quickly. This means it’s a wonderful time to surround them with images and textures and language. We have chosen a selection of our favourite books for babies and toddlers.

What are the best books for babies?

Interactive and sensory books are the best books to introduce to babies. Look for books that are touchy-feely, that your baby can press or stroke easily. That’s Not my Puppy is a perfect texture baby book that will help your baby during the early stages of development and keep your baby’s focus. Also choose peekaboo and peep-hole baby books, or finger-puppet books like Incy Wincy Spider to keep them engaged. Just remember that to begin with, in the first six months, your baby may just want to hold or even chew their books. As they reach their first year they will move to the next stage, starting to become curious about the shapes, letters and number they see.

When should you start buying baby books?

You can start buying baby books before your baby is born. Add first books to your list of essentials so you have them to hand in the whirlwind of baby’s first six months. Choose to buy a selection of books, such as a cloth book, My Little Seaside. A buggy book like our First Jungle Buggy Book, that you can attach to their seat, chair or buggy. We would also recommend investing in a few simple, short story books. Don’t worry if it feels like you are reading to yourself to begin with. Babies are like sponges. They will take everything in and will enjoy having a snuggle and hearing your voice. When you turn reading into a daily routine, you will instill in your child a love for books. You are not just teaching your child how to read, you are teaching them to enjoy reading.

When should you start reading to a newborn?

Experts say that the earlier you start reading to your baby, the better. Some parents start reading to their baby in the womb, others wait until they are a few months old. Reading aloud to newborn babies helps them learn communication skills and to build an awareness of the world around them. They may not understand what you are reading but, don’t worry, it is more about your gestures and the intonation of your voice. Make sure your baby is comfortable before you read to them and remember, repetition is key. Once you make reading a part of your daily routine, you will be amazed how quickly your baby begins to learn and understand.