How to Choose Books to Read to Your Baby

Some children take to reading very quickly and it happens easily. However, the vast majority of children need help and support before they can become independent readers. This much we know...

A great way for children to learn to love stories and want to read is to read to them - every night would be ideal, but any reading time is beneficial.

Books to Read to Your Baby

You can start to read to babies as soon as you want, they'll love the sound of your voice reading a story. Try one with a strong rhyme and rhythm. Later when they are able to look at pictures they will like books with strong colours and bold illustrations.

My children liked these:

Cat's Colours by Jane Cabrera
Tickle, Tickle by Helen Oxenbury. One of a series of books, all big board books with lovely pictures and text.
Mr Bear Says Let's Go Outside by Debi Gliori one of a series of board books with lovely pictures and text.
Where's Spot by Eric Hill. There are lots of Spot books and my children loved them all.

Books to Read to Your Toddler

As they begin to be able to interact with you it is a good idea to discuss the illustrations with them - so choose a book with simple illustrations where you'll be able to pick out some features between you.

Books your toddler can interact with are good. My children liked ones with flaps to lift up and ones with textures to touch.

My children liked these:

That's Not My Train, one of a series of That's Not My... books by Usbourne with lots of textures and things to feel.
Maisy books by Lucy Cousins. Simple stories with lovely characters.
Grandma Rabbitty's Visit by Barry Smith. Lots of things to look out for.
It's Mine by Rod Campbell a lovely book with things hidden in the pictures.

Books For Babies

How to Choose Books to Read to Your Baby

Books to Read to Your Baby

Books to Read to Your Toddler