I recommend these books because I’ve read them with my own kids and seen what actually holds a baby’s attention. They’re the ones that get grabbed, chewed on, and asked for again—simple, sturdy, and engaging enough to make early reading feel fun inst...
Sections
3
Board Books
Soft Books
Interactive
Board Books
Board books are perfect for little hands—durable, chew-proof, and easy for babies to hold. I recommend the ones that capture attention with bright colors, fun textures, and simple, rhythmic text. These books aren’t just cute; they help build early li...
Goodnight Gorilla is such a charming, playful bedtime story! The mischievous little gorilla follows the zookeeper around, letting all the animals out in the funniest way. The illustrations are bright and full of detail, and kids love spotting all the...
Good Night, Gorilla (Picture Puffins)
Timeless, soothing bedtime book with gentle rhymes.
Goodnight Moon: Margaret Wise Brown, Clement Hurd
Hello, Ninja is a fun, interactive board book that introduces little ones to ninja moves, friendship, and problem-solving in a playful way. The bright illustrations and simple text make it perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, and kids love imitatin...
Hello Ninja: N. D. Wilson, Forrest Dickison
A sweet, fun board book that looks at the world from a baby’s perspective where everything is mama, great for read‑alouds and early words.
Everything Is Mama by Fallon & Ordóñez
It’s a playful, interactive board book that looks at the world through a baby’s eyes, highlighting all the ways “Dada” is everywhere. Perfect for read-alouds, it’s funny, sweet, and a great way for dads to bond with their little ones.
Your Baby's First Word Will Be DADA
This bedtime classic is simple, sweet, and perfect for winding down. The gentle rhymes and cozy illustrations make it an easy favorite for little ones every night.
The Going To Bed Book by Sandra Boynton
It walks through all those familiar steps — from the end of dinner to bath time, brushing teeth, cozying into pajamas, snuggles, a bedtime story, and finally lights out — with playful, simple illustrations that keep little ones engaged. The gentle rh...
Nighty-Night: Bedtime Story for Babies
Soft Books
Soft books are a favorite in our house because they’re gentle, safe, and inviting for babies to explore.
These high-contrast toys are awesome for newborns. The black-and-white patterns immediately grab baby’s attention, and the crinkle sounds, soft textures, and little mirror make tummy time way more fun. Simple, engaging, and perfect for those early se...
Black & White High Contrast Baby Toys 0-6M
These little crinkle books are perfect for tiny hands. Soft, safe, and full of textures and sounds that keep babies curious and engaged. They’re lightweight, easy to grab, and great for tummy time, stroller rides, or quiet moments—definitely a go-to ...
If you’re looking for a board book that actually stands up to real baby wear and tear, Indestructibles: Baby Peekaboo is a must-have. My little one loves the interactive peek-a-boo flaps, and I love that this book is truly chew-proof, rip-proof, and ...
Indestructibles Baby Peekaboo Book - Chew Proof
If you want a baby book that truly engages all those little senses, the Melissa & Doug Soft Activity Baby Book – Whose Feet? is such a winner. The soft pages are perfect for tiny hands to squeeze and explore, and the different textures make every...
Melissa & Doug Soft Activity Baby Book - Whose Feet?
Interactive
If you’re looking for a book that keeps little hands and ears happily busy, Noisy Babies: My First Touch and Feel Sound Book is such a fun pick! The mix of soft textures and playful sounds makes each page feel like a mini discovery. My baby gets so e...