When starting a home library for a new baby board books are essential. They are they pretty much indestructible and can withstand heavy duty use from tiny fingers and baby drool.
Since board books fit perfectly into the hands of babies and toddlers, they are a perfect way to spark a baby’s love of reading.
These are my top picks for classic board books for your baby’s first library that have entertained generations of young readers and their parents!
Goodnight Moon Written by Margaret Wise Brown and Illustrated by Clement Hurd
A classic and beloved story that’s been enjoyed for generations. It’s the perfect book for bedtime and helping little ones wind down for the evening. Additionally, the book can aid in helping establish a bedtime routine.
Brown, Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See Written by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carl
Repetition and rhyme make this classic book a favorite for babies and toddlers. For Eric Carle fans, readers will instantly be drawn to his colorful classic collages that pair perfectly with the story. It’s one of those books that grows with children and they’ll start to recite it, as they get older. Also, check out the sequel Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See!
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Written and Illustrated by Eric Carle
Did you know that this book is sold somewhere in the world every 30 seconds? It’s been delighting audiences for over 30 years and is written in 2o languages. Gorgeous signature Eric Carle illustrations grace each page, and it’s also perfect for teaching colors, days of the week, caterpillar life cycles and types of food. A library wouldn’t be complete without multiple copies of this classic book!
Guess How Much I Love You? Written by Sam McBratney and Illustrated by Anita Jeram
A delightful tale that’s graced bookshelves for over 20 years! It’s a heartwarming story about a baby rabbit (Little Nutbrown Hare) and his father (Big Nutbrown Hare) expressing their profound love for each other. It’s a great book to add to the bedtime story pile and will resonate with audiences of all ages about a parents endless love.
Dear Zoo Written by Rod Campbell
Published in 1982 ( the year I was born), this classic book has charmed readers for 30+ years! A catchy refrain, interactive, interactive flaps to reveal beloved zoo animals and colorful illustrations makes this book an exciting choice.
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Written by Helen Oxenbury and Illustrated Michael Rosen
“We’re going on a bear hunt. We’re going to catch a big one……” A favorite read aloud for both babies and toddlers written as a repetitive song that you’ll find yourself singing all day long. Toddlers will also love acting out different parts of the story and singing the refrain. Make sure to purchase the board book version, so that you won’t have to worry about ruining your copy since it’ll be a book you’ll read a million times!
Pat the Bunny Written by Dorothy Kunardt
A generational book that’s been a favorite for 60+ years! Grandparents and parents will have nostalgic memories of enjoying Pat the Bunny as children, and will enjoy reading it with their families.
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Written by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault and Illustrated by Lois Ehlert
Set to a catchy beat with rhyming text this alphabet song will quickly become a favorite read aloud. Babies and toddlers will squeal with delight as the letters of the alphabet race up the coconut tree. A perfect book to help children learn the alphabet in a fun and non-traditional way.
Corduroy Written by Don Freeman
Named one of the top 100 books for children with over 20 million books sold, Corduroy continues to be a beloved story for audiences of all ages. Reader’s will resonate with the small teddy bear looking for a home and the little girl (Lisa) who makes his dream come true.
Are You My Mother? Written by PD Eastman and Edited by Dr. Seuss
A timeless tale about a little bird searching for his mother that expertly shows the love between a mother and a child. It’s a book that will grow with your family, and children will love reciting the words and looking at the humorous illustrations.
I’d love to hear some other classic board book suggestions! Please leave a comment!