Reading to newborns can be such a rewarding experience. A lot of bonding can happen during story time, even with the tiniest babies who are still a ways off from learning how to speak. Any book would work really, but some books are targeted more to the 0-6 month age group and where they are at developmentally.
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Below are a few of our favorite books that are especially wonderful for young babies. They feature one or more of six characteristics that are popular for newborns: high contrast illustrations, durability, human faces. (particularly babies), moving/interactive features and soothing language. Each one is fantastic and they would also make wonderful choices for a baby shower gift!
“Farm Animals (Baby Basics)” by Xavier Deneux- This book is brilliant for babies! The illustrations are predominately black and white with bright pops of colors. Plus, there are pull-tabs to create movement with small parts of the illustrations!
“I am Baby” by Kathryn Madeline Allen and Rebecca Gizicki- This board book is happy baby photo after happy baby photo. The text is super basic and focuses on vocabulary that is relevant to babies. Such a cute one.
“Read To Your Baby Everyday: 30 Classic Nursery Rhymes to Read-Aloud” by Rachel Williams and Chloe Giordano- This is a picture book that makes a beautiful keepsake. It contains 30 classic nursery rhymes accompanied by the sweetest illustrations. It is a fabulous and soothing read aloud for babies.
“Black Cat & White Cat” by Claire Garralon- This book is an incredibly clever, high contrast book about two cats that is interesting enough to entertain not only babies, but their parents. Bonus points for that and the surprise ending that is sure to bring on a smile.
“Guess How Much I Love You Soft Teether Book” by Kids Preferred- This soft, fabric book is a simplified version of the classic board book “Guess How Much I Love You”. It’s soft construction is perfect for babies to handle and it even comes with a teething ring attached to the spine. (Plus the pages “crackle”!)
“Baby See, Baby Do: Lift & Look in the Mirror” by Robie Rogge and Jennifer Hale- This board book features different photos of babies displaying different emotions. The fact that it is accompanied by a mirror that folds out and can be seen with each page encourages babies to imitate the faces in the photos. Plus, babies love to see their face in mirrors!
“Look, Look Outside” by Peter Linenthal- Another high contrast book that is beautiful for babies. The illustrations are very eye-catching and so sweet. This is one that is sure to please.
“World of Eric Carle, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Soft Book” by Kids Preferred- This one is similar to the “Guess How Much I Love You” fabric book towards the top of the list. We love that one so I’m sure this one is equally wonderful. It is soft and includes a teether. Plus, it features a very famous caterpillar. What’s not to love?!
“Hug Me Little Bunny: Finger Puppet Book” and “Hug Me Little Bear: Finger Puppet Book” by Chronicle Books- Each one of these board books has two, soft paws that are essentially finger puppets for the reader to use to entertain the listener. They extend through every page spread and are pleasantly soft. Wiggling them around creates visual interest and babies are sure to love the soft paws brushing their cheek as well.
“Hello Garden Bugs: A High Contrast Book” by duopress labs and Julissa Mora- This high-contrast book features 10 different illustrations of bugs and some large patterns. What’s cuter than a black and white bug book for a newborn, right?!
“Jane Foster’s Black and White” by Jane Foster- One more high-conrast board book recommendation because they are such a staple for this age group and there are so many wonderful ones. This one is simple and sweet and sure to please. It features a lot of animals and has some visually excellent patterns to attract attention.
“Let’s Imagine (Mirror & Me Board Book)
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