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Baby Talula "reading" her duck book (she LOVES ducks).
Reading to babies isn’t just about building language skills—it’s about creating special moments and nurturing a lifelong love of books. As a Single Mom by Choice and a PhD Candidate in French Literature at New York University, I know firsthand how powerful early exposure to books can be.
My love for reading started young, with my family treating books as prized treasures, and I’m determined to pass that passion on to my daughter. Born in September 2022, she’s already showing signs of being a little bookworm herself, eagerly reaching for books and even bringing them along for car rides.
With my academic background in literature—ranging from an undergraduate degree in English with a French minor, to a Master's in French Literature—I’ve developed a deep appreciation for well-crafted stories. I’ve carefully selected 15 of our favorite baby books, spanning various age ranges and themes, from interactive touch-and-feel books to toddler-friendly reads on emotions and world cultures.
Whether you’re looking for engaging books for tummy time or to help your child explore new experiences, this list is designed to inspire a love for reading from the very beginning.
Uncle Lo reading a dog book with Talula (and the pups lounging nearby)
Why Reading Books with Your children Matters
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from parenting, it’s that the simplest activities often have the biggest impact. Reading to babies is one of those seemingly small things that makes a world of difference. It's more than just a bedtime routine or a way to keep your little one entertained—it’s laying the groundwork for their language skills, imagination, and even their emotional growth.
Toddler 411: Your Toddler Age 1 to 4 points out how making reading a daily habit helps kids see books as a natural and enjoyable part of life. It’s not about hitting milestones or being “productive”; it’s about sharing a moment. It builds connections between you and your child while giving them a head start on language skills, even before they can talk. I’ve seen this with my own daughter. Those quiet moments with a book in our lap are when we connect the most, and the joy in her eyes when she recognizes a picture or sound is worth every minute.
In The Montessori Baby, Davies and Uzodike emphasize that reading to your child should start even before they’re born. Yes, you read that right—babies can hear your voice and start recognizing its soothing rhythm before they ever see the world. And once they're here, letting them explore books with their hands, and even their mouths (because let’s be honest, babies love to taste everything), fosters sensory development along with language skills.
For me, reading with my daughter isn’t just about ticking a box or following some perfect routine. It’s about creating a space where curiosity can bloom and knowing that these early experiences with books will shape her lifelong relationship with learning.
My Top Picks
I have an extensive collection of books to recommend, so I carefully curated my selections to include a variety of categories that cater to different developmental needs and interests.
In this post, you'll find one tummy time book, four touch-and-feel books, one sound book, two pop-out books, two educational books, one book addressing big feelings, one book about using the potty, three busy books, and a special bonus book. This diverse range ensures that there’s something engaging for every stage of your child’s early reading journey!
Tummy Time Transformation: A High-Contrast Book for strength and fun!
Starting off, I’m highlighting a must-have for tummy time—a high-contrast book designed to engage babies while supporting their development! Tummy time is essential for helping babies build core and neck strength, which gradually leads to those big milestones like rolling, crawling, and walking.
For us, tummy time was a challenge from the start. Talula was born at 37 weeks and had some serious reflux, making every tummy time session a little tricky (and messy!). Any time I laid her on her stomach, she’d often spit up, and she’d cry when her face ended up right in it, unable to lift her head just yet.
This book turned things around. Using a small pillow to prop her up and setting up this high-contrast book in front of her made a world of difference. The book’s bold black-and-white patterns instantly caught her eye and gave her something to focus on, helping to distract from the effort of building her tiny core muscles. With every crinkle and peek-a-boo mirror, she was more engaged and, best of all, kept that little face (mostly) puke-free!
This double-sided book is designed with babies in mind and is packed with features to keep little ones captivated:
Visual Stimulation: With high-contrast images on one side and vibrant colors on the other, this book is great for developing eyesight and focus.
Tactile Fun: Crinkly pages, a baby-safe mirror, and a beet-shaped teether introduce cause and effect, making each touch a learning experience.
Safe and Durable: Made with high-quality, BPA-free materials, this book is baby-safe, durable, and perfect for the intense love only a little one can show.
Whether as a tummy-time support tool, a stroller toy, or a special bonding time activity, this book is an incredible way to introduce babies to the world of reading and exploration. It’s been a game-changer for us, and it might just become a favorite for your little one, too!
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Exploring the World Through Touch: The Best Touch and Feel Books for Babies
As Talula started to recognize animals and reach out to touch things, I knew it was time to bring in some touch-and-feel books. She absolutely loves animals, and her excitement when she feels the soft “fur” of a lion or the bumpy “scales” of a dinosaur is priceless. It’s amazing to see how these textures spark her curiosity, and she gets so engaged with each page—running her fingers over the different materials while pointing at the pictures with delight.
If your baby is starting to show interest in textures and new sensations, touch-and-feel books are a great next step. Below, I’ve curated some of our favorites that range from the wonders of weather to furry and feathery friends and even a dino adventure. Each of these books provides unique, baby-friendly textures to explore, making storytime even more interactive and fun.
Talula’s dinosaur obsession is real. Thanks to her Great Grandpa Bub, she’s got a whole wardrobe covered in dino prints, and when she isn’t charging around the house roaring “Rawr!” she’s leafing through books to spot her favorite prehistoric friends. So, when we came across this touch-and-feel triceratops book, it was an immediate win.
This little board book combines Talula’s love for dinos with textures she can explore on every page. Each spread has a new feel—from the bumpy skin of a triceratops to the leafy greens it munches on—adding a hands-on layer to her learning. And I have to admit, watching her pat the “dino skin” while I read the rhyming lines about what triceratops eat or where they lived is pretty adorable.
This sturdy, dinosaur-shaped book also earns major points for its bright colors and simple, engaging language, so it easily keeps Talula’s attention. Perfect for sensory play and fueling their imaginations, this touch-and-feel book brings the Jurassic world right into your living room (without the cleanup).
It’s a great gift for dino-loving littles—check it out below to bring some prehistoric adventure to your own story time!
Next on our list is an adorable touch-and-feel book about wild animals! I have to confess that I might have picked this one up more for myself than for Talula—I have a minor chameleon obsession. That said, she’s taken a liking to the lion page, so it’s definitely a hit!
This book is a sensory delight, featuring five exciting textures for little hands to explore. From the soft, woolly fur of a koala to the leathery ear of an elephant, each page invites curious minds to touch, feel, and learn. The playful rhyming text not only entertains but also shares fun facts about animals from across the globe, making reading time an adventure we can share.
Here’s what awaits your little explorer:
Tickle the cuddly koala's ear
Feel the scaly skin of a lizard
Pat the friendly lion
Touch the smooth dolphin
Pet the elephant's leathery ear
The Wild Animals Touch and Feel board book is not just a fun read; it’s a wonderful way to spark a love for learning and reading at an early age. Whether you’re looking for a charming gift for a birthday celebration or want to enrich your child’s library, this book is a fantastic choice. Let the adventures unfold—grab a copy today and join in the fun!
I had to include this delightful touch-and-feel book because Talula absolutely adores birds, especially chickens and roosters, which she affectionately calls "Hei Hei" after her favorite character from Moana!
About the Book: This engaging silicone touch-and-feel book invites little ones to explore the lively world of farm animals. Each page introduces a charming animal, from chirping chicks to playful pigs, each accompanied by the sounds they make—perfect for sparking your child’s curiosity!
Featuring vibrant illustrations and tactile silicone elements, this book offers an interactive reading experience that will keep young readers engaged. With a different touch-and-feel texture on the cover and every spread, children will love feeling the textures as they learn about their favorite farm friends.
Next up is a delightful touch-and-feel weather book! Living in a place where sunshine reigns supreme for most of the year, this book has been Talula’s introduction to various weather phenomena—she’s had to rely on it for a glimpse of snow and storms, as the only "weather" we get is during monsoon season. It's a fantastic way to expand her vocabulary while exploring different types of weather!
In this interactive board book, little hands can discover the wonders of weather, from sunny days to stormy skies. Each page offers a sensory experience, allowing children to touch and feel their way through concepts like clouds, snow, and lightning.
Here’s what makes this book a must-have for your child’s library:
Bright, colorful images that capture attention.
Easy-to-understand fun facts and descriptions about weather.
A variety of touch-and-feel elements on every spread and cover to stimulate the senses.
Engaging and interactive learning that keeps young readers entertained.
This touch-and-feel weather book is perfect for any reading time or as a gift for special occasions—birthdays, baby showers, or holidays like Christmas and Easter.
Sound Book
Next up is a delightful sound book that’s perfect for little ears! Talula has a fascination with trucks—thanks to her Great Grandpa Bub's generous gift of all things wheeled. So, you can imagine her sheer joy when she discovered a book bursting with the sounds of trucks, cars, buses, and all the delightful noise they make!
She loves to cuddle up with her toy trucks as we read, and it's adorable to see her mimic the sounds of the vehicles while pretending to drive them around. This book truly brings the world of vehicles to life, turning reading time into an interactive experience filled with fun sounds and imaginative play!
This engaging sound book features five lively four-wheeled friends—Fire Truck, Police Car, School Bus, Cement Truck, and Garbage Truck—each playing a vital role in their community. As they roar to life, toddlers will be captivated by the colorful illustrations and the interactive experience of pressing silicone sound buttons shaped like the vehicles' fronts to hear the distinct sounds each vehicle makes.
This book isn’t just a fun read; it’s an interactive adventure that encourages young readers to engage with the story actively. The tactile elements promote sensory learning, enhancing a child's understanding of their environment while they discover how each vehicle helps the town. The rhythmic storytelling and lively sounds make for a delightful reading experience, perfect for storytime at home or in a classroom setting.
Adding this book to your child's library will foster a love of reading and sound exploration, making it an excellent gift for birthdays or special occasions. It’s sure to be a hit with little vehicle enthusiasts!
Pop Out Books
Pop-out books are a delightful addition to any young child's library, and for good reason! These interactive books capture the imagination with their engaging three-dimensional elements, providing an enchanting reading experience that goes beyond the pages. Talula often exclaims, "Wow! So cool!" whenever we dive into one, and her excitement perfectly illustrates how these books can bring stories to life.
Not only do pop-out books stimulate curiosity and wonder, but they also foster a love of reading by making learning playful and interactive. The surprise of a character popping out or a scene unfolding keeps little ones captivated, encouraging them to explore the narrative and engage with the illustrations. This level of interaction promotes fine motor skills as children touch and manipulate the pop-out features, enhancing their overall learning experience.
Moreover, these books often introduce key concepts such as colors, shapes, and storytelling in an accessible way, making them perfect for early learners. Their vibrant illustrations and tactile elements can also serve as valuable tools for parents and caregivers looking to enhance language development. By discussing the pop-out features and storylines, caregivers can help little ones build vocabulary and comprehension skills.
In essence, pop-out books are more than just fun; they are an essential resource for nurturing a child's imagination and love for reading. As Talula would say, they truly are "so cool!"
The first book I'd like to share is Pop Out Around the World, a delightful book that resonates deeply with my personal journey and has quickly become a favorite in our home. As someone who has had the incredible opportunity to live in diverse places like Hong Kong, the U.S., and France, I always made it a point to collect a book from each city I visited. This tradition allowed me to not only cherish my experiences but also to envision the world I would one day share with my child.
What I love about Pop Out Around the World is how it brings that same spirit of exploration to life in a single book. With vibrant illustrations and engaging facts about six remarkable cities—New York, London, Beijing, Mexico City, Tokyo, and Sydney—it captures the essence of each location beautifully. The interactive element, with press-out pieces to build iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Big Ben, adds a layer of fun that older kids will adore.
Even though Talula is just 2 years old and may not be ready for the building aspect yet, she is enchanted by the colorful illustrations and often points at the different scenes, identifying birds and cars depicted in them. This book not only fosters her curiosity but also allows us to bond over our love for travel and culture. It’s perfect for children of all ages, offering something for everyone—from simple visual exploration for toddlers to hands-on activities for older kids.
For our family, this book isn’t just a fun read; it’s a window into the world and a way for Talula to start dreaming about the adventures that await us. It’s a lovely addition to our library that sparks imagination and invites us to explore together!
The other pop out book I'd like to recommend is Pop Out Horses! Growing up, I was captivated by horses, largely thanks to the movie Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron. I’m excited to share that same love for horses with Talula!
This sturdy board book not only offers engaging information about various breeds, from Appaloosas to Shetland ponies, but it also features chunky press-out pieces that children can use to build their own horses. Each page introduces readers to the world of horses—how they work, what happens at horse shows, and the unique traits of different breeds.
What I particularly appreciate about this book is its interactive nature. The pieces press out easily and can be assembled without the need for glue or scissors, making it perfect for little hands. While the building aspect is ideally suited for kids aged 4 and up, Talula is already enchanted by the colorful illustrations and loves flipping through the pages, pointing out the different horses.
As a combined book and play set, Pop Out Horses serves as a wonderful screen-free activity for kids ready to dive into the world of horses. I can’t wait to watch Talula’s eyes light up as she learns about these amazing creatures and starts dreaming of her own horse adventures!
Educational Books
STEM
Now we’re diving into the world of educational STEM books! With Uncle Lo holding a master’s in pure and applied mathematics, Grandma Love bringing her clinical research background and passion for science, and Grandpa TJ navigating the world of computer programming, it's safe to say Talula is surrounded by some serious brainpower. This category is a fantastic opportunity for her to explore concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in a fun and engaging way.
These books will not only pique her curiosity but also lay a strong foundation for her understanding of the world around her. Whether she’s discovering the wonders of physics, solving mathematical puzzles, or experimenting with basic engineering concepts, these STEM books will inspire her to ask questions, think critically, and nurture her innate sense of wonder. Plus, they’ll provide us with plenty of opportunities to bond as we explore together!
When it comes to introducing young minds to the exciting world of STEM, there’s a treasure trove of board books available. Today, I’m shining a spotlight on the fantastic ABCs series from the Baby University collection. This series brilliantly connects the essential ABCs—one of the first educational tools children encounter—with the fascinating realms of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
Talula, with her infectious love for singing the ABC song, finds these books to be a delightful way to marry her early literacy skills with a budding interest in STEM. Imagine her joy as she flips through the pages, learning that A is for Amoeba, B is for Bond, and C is for Conductor!
The ABCs of Science and ABCs of Mathematics are perfect introductions for infants and toddlers, crafted by experts to foster curiosity from a young age. Each page is designed with multiple levels of text, ensuring the book evolves alongside your little one as they grow. Plus, the colorful illustrations are sure to capture their attention and spark conversations about the world around them.
Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for a birthday, baby shower, or holiday, these books are a wonderful choice for nurturing the next generation of scientists and mathematicians. After all, it only takes a small spark to ignite a child’s mind!
Writing
As children develop their understanding of the alphabet, it’s an exciting time to introduce them to writing books. While Talula isn’t quite at the writing stage yet—she’s only 2—she absolutely loves identifying letters and getting creative with her scribbles. This writing book serves as a fantastic next step for young learners like her, who are beginning to explore the world of letters and sounds.
Although Talula enjoys doodling and making her own colorful marks, this wipeable ABC writing book will be perfect for when she’s ready to practice forming letters more intentionally. The wipe-clean surfaces allow for endless practice without the worry of wasting paper, which is a win for both of us! Plus, it encourages her to try again and again, making it a low-pressure way to boost her confidence as she plays with writing.
This engaging writing book is designed to help young learners practice pen control and writing letters. Each page features a wipe-clean surface, making it easy to start over whenever needed. With directional arrows illustrating how to write each letter, children can learn proper letter formation while building essential writing skills.
Promotes Repetition: The wipe-clean feature encourages kids to practice as often as they like, reinforcing their learning with each attempt.
Supports Early Literacy: In addition to writing letters, this book fosters early reading skills, setting a strong foundation for literacy.
Includes Writing Pen: Each book comes with a pen, so kids can dive right into practicing their letters!
This writing book not only makes learning fun but also equips children like Talula with the tools they need to succeed on their writing journey. It’s a fantastic addition to any young child’s educational library!
Books for Discussing Big Feelings
Navigating the landscape of emotions can be a tricky journey for little ones. As a parent, I prioritize calmness and emotional regulation, guiding Talula in recognizing and naming her feelings. This is where books about emotions come into play—they're not just stories; they’re essential tools for helping children understand and articulate their feelings.
In our home, we embrace the idea that emotions are not only valid but also vital to our interactions with the world. By using books that focus on feelings, I provide Talula with the language and skills she needs to express herself better. These books offer relatable scenarios and colorful illustrations that resonate with young readers, making it easier for them to identify what they’re feeling and learn how to cope with those emotions.
I’ve found that these stories not only support emotional intelligence but also create a safe space for conversations about feelings, paving the way for improved emotional regulation and communication skills. So, let’s dive into some fantastic titles that empower our little ones to understand their hearts and minds!
As we dive deeper into the world of emotions, I can't recommend My First Book of Emotions for Toddlers enough! This colorful board book is a fantastic resource for helping our little ones understand their big feelings. Toddlers may be pint-sized, but their emotions are larger than life, and this book offers a gentle introduction to navigating those feelings.
What I love about this book is its focus on six key emotions: fear, anger, joy, sadness, disgust, and surprise. Each emotion is presented in a way that encourages self-awareness and empathy, teaching toddlers how these feelings manifest in our bodies and how we express them. The vibrant illustrations and cute kid characters keep Talula engaged, making it a delightful read for both of us.
The toddler-friendly language makes it easy for young children to grasp these concepts, and the sturdy board book format is perfect for little hands to explore. It’s a wonderful tool for fostering emotional intelligence and opening up conversations about feelings in a fun and relatable way.
If you’re looking to enrich your child’s library with a book that empowers them to recognize and respond to their emotions, this is a must-have!
Potty Training
As toddlers explore their emotions and gain confidence, they naturally take on new milestones—like potty training. This stage can stir a mix of feelings, from excitement to a hint of nervousness. A great way to support this transition is through a charming book that not only introduces the concept of using the potty but also reassures your little one that they’re not alone in this experience.
Let’s take a look at a delightful potty training book that makes this important journey fun and relatable, helping kids feel empowered as they embrace this new challenge!
When it comes to potty training, having the right tools can make all the difference. Let's Go to the Potty is a fun and engaging board book designed to empower toddlers as they transition from diapers to the potty. With playful illustrations and kid-friendly language, this book captures what potty training looks and feels like, helping little ones feel more confident about this new adventure.
Talula thrives on making her own choices, and this book aligns perfectly with her desire for autonomy. It encourages her to take the lead in her potty training journey, reinforcing the idea that this is her decision. The delightful rhyming potty song not only teaches her how to express her needs but also adds an element of fun to the process.
Each page of Let's Go to the Potty is crafted to engage toddlers and promote positive feelings about using the potty. It’s an inclusive, gender-neutral book that allows all kids to see themselves in the story, making it an excellent resource for every toddler navigating this important milestone. Plus, with its sturdy board pages, this book can accompany your little one during potty time, turning what can be a daunting experience into an enjoyable one.
Say goodbye to diapers and hello to new adventures with this delightful potty training book that supports your child's journey with joy and confidence!
Interactive "Busy" Books
As a busy toddler, Talula thrives on exploration and hands-on activities, which is why I love interactive busy books! These engaging books are perfect for keeping little hands and minds occupied without resorting to screen time. Whether we’re traveling or spending time at a restaurant, having a busy book on hand provides Talula with an exciting way to learn and play simultaneously.
What I appreciate most about these books is their ability to captivate Talula’s attention with various textures, flaps, and activities. They allow her to manipulate and explore, encouraging her natural curiosity and creativity. Plus, they help develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive abilities—all while keeping her entertained. I’ve found that interactive busy books make outings so much smoother, as Talula can dive into a world of discovery, ensuring that she’s engaged and happy.
Here are some of our favorite interactive busy books that are sure to delight toddlers and parents alike!
This enchanting Montessori Busy Board Book was a thoughtful gift from Talula's Great Grandma Dian and Great Grandpa Jai for her 2nd birthday, and it perfectly combines her love of mermaids with the engaging activities of a busy book. Designed for toddlers aged 1 to 4, this busy book features eight delightful themes, including daily dressing, clocks, and expression recognition, offering a range of activities that stimulate fine motor skills and cognitive development.
The mermaid and sea-themed design captivates Talula's imagination, drawing her in with vibrant colors and playful illustrations. With 20 different life skill activities, this board encourages her to explore letters, numbers, shapes, and colors while engaging in practical tasks like zipping, buttoning, and Velcro fastening. These activities are not only fun but also help her develop essential life skills and hand-eye coordination.
The portable design, measuring 11.2 x 7.48 inches, makes it an ideal travel companion for our family adventures. Whether we’re on a car ride or visiting relatives, this busy board keeps Talula entertained and engaged without resorting to screens. Plus, its soft felt material and rounded edges ensure safe playtime, giving me peace of mind as she explores.
As Talula dives into the world of mermaids with this busy board, I love watching her confidence grow as she masters each activity, all while having fun! This book is a wonderful addition to her collection of interactive toys and an excellent gift for little ones who are eager to learn and play.
The Ultimate Busy Book is a wonderful resource for Talula, blending learning and fun in an engaging format. With 30 interactive activity pages covering a variety of topics—like numbers, the alphabet, and emotions—this book captures her attention while promoting essential cognitive and fine motor skills.
It's fully assembled and ready to use, making it perfect for busy parents on the go. The durable, water-resistant pages are easy to clean, and the rounded corners ensure safety for little explorers. Measuring 11.25” x 8.25”, it fits easily into its included canvas bag, making it an excellent travel companion.
Ideal for toddlers aged 2 to 4, this busy book is a fantastic gift for any occasion. It offers a screen-free way to keep Talula entertained, and it's become a favorite in our home, enriching her learning experience while encouraging curiosity and creativity.
While this Space Adventure Activities Book is more suited for children aged 4 to 6, I see great potential for Talula to enjoy it in the coming years. With its engaging, colorful design and a variety of 18 activities—like tracing, mazes, and search-and-find challenges—this book will be a fantastic way for her to explore space concepts independently once she reaches that stage.
Although she’s not quite ready for the more advanced activities right now, I appreciate how this book is crafted for young learners, allowing them to engage without needing adult supervision or instructions. The inclusion of reusable stickers adds an interactive element that I believe Talula will love as she grows.
This book is a wonderful resource for future travels, making it easy to keep her entertained and curious about the world around her. I look forward to when she can dive into this adventure!
Bonus Book
A Halloween Scare
As a huge fan of Halloween, I couldn’t resist adding a bonus book to my list: A Halloween Scare! While they do not have an edition of the book for the state I am currently in (anxiety? Jk Jk), I’m thrilled that this delightful series features editions for some states I've lived in, including California, New Jersey, and New York. Other available editions include:
Each book in the A Halloween Scare series invites young readers on a Halloween adventure through their own state or city, spotlighting familiar landmarks and local culture. Aimed at children ages 4-8, these stories provide just the right amount of spooky fun for bedtime, classroom read-alouds, or family gatherings.
With beautiful illustrations and charming rhymes, these books are perfect for children looking to explore Halloween traditions in their own neighborhoods. They make wonderful seasonal gifts that can be enjoyed year after year, ensuring that every Halloween is filled with excitement and community spirit.
Conclusion
Talula excitedly running off at Bookman's.
As I reflect on our journey through books, I can’t help but feel grateful for the budding reader Talula has become at just two years old. Her excitement is contagious whenever she spots a book, whether it’s during our visits to the bookstore or the library. I love how she’ll "read" my books, stealing them away to curl up in cozy spots, like dog beds next to the bookcase, with a tiny story in her hands.
It’s moments like these that remind me of the magic of storytelling and the joy it brings to little ones. I hope this collection of interactive and engaging books inspires other families to cultivate a love for reading in their children.
I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite books for kids? Have you introduced any of these titles to your little ones? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below. Let’s celebrate these early reading adventures together, fostering curiosity and imagination one page at a time!
Talula invites you to join her in the wonderful world of books!