Babies love books! They chew them, throw them, hide them and drool on them. But they also love being read to, and reading together can an opportunity for a peaceful cuddle or a welcome distraction.
Experts agree that reading to your baby from birth will have a positive impact on your child’s development. Even before your little one can understand the words, they will be taking in the new sounds and your tone of voice, as well as the bright colours and shapes on the page.
There are many different formats of baby books to choose from – from simple rhyming picture books to interactive touch-and-feel and lift-the-flap board books or elaborate pop up books. First baby books often feature strong colours and patterns and sensory elements to stimulate your baby's brain.
We have chosen some of our favourite books for babies below.
For more ideas, check out our list of early learning books for babies and toddlers and our favourite classic baby books here too.