Board books are the perfect introduction to literacy for our littlest readers! Packaged in bite-size format for babies and toddlers, these stories include messages that are simple and fun (and often educational!). Not only that, but board book structure allows babies and toddlers the freedom to hold, manipulate, and even play with their books– reinforcing the positive emotions that are so important when it comes to reading and literacy learning. For more on the benefits of board books, check out our blog post HERE.
I Love You to the Moon and Back by Amelia Hepworth, illustrated by Tim Warnes
Mother Bear and Baby Bear take an evening stroll under the moon, stars, and aurora borealis as Mother Bear recounts the many ways she loves her baby. From rubbing noses to bathtime silliness to gazing up at the stars, the soft & simple language, coupled with the rich, cool illustrative tones, invites all readers to snuggle a little closer before saying goodnight.
If Animals Kissed Goodnight by Ann Whitford Paul, illustrated by David Walker
What would happen if animals kissed their babies good-night, just like humans do? In this sweet rhyming story, hippos, seals, giraffes, pythons, even elephants & wolves kiss their babies good-night in their own special way. And the sloth and its cub? You guessed it—their good-night kiss takes the longest time of all! This story is fun, colorful, and a perfect way to end the night with your littlest ones.
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star by Jane Cabrera
Based on the popular children’s song, this story’s bold illustrations and repeating rhymes take readers from cities to grasslands to jungles and up into the sky, as animals from all over the globe gaze at the same little star above. In a beautifully simple way, this story reminds us of how big—and small—the world really is.
Hello World! Backyard Bugs by Jill McDonald
This science-themed board book introduces common backyard bugs with colorful illustrations and fun facts. Each bug includes an interesting fact about that bug, with multiple interactive elements woven throughout the simple story. This is a great story for any curious little one who enjoys exploring in the backyard!
Pajama Time by Sandra Boynton
The perfect board book for a bedtime boogie! There are all different kinds of pajamas, but no matter which pajamas you’re wearing, you can still get your groove on for a bedtime pajama dance! Boynton’s jaunty rhymes and light-hearted illustrations keeps kiddos entertained– and more importantly, excited for bedtime!
Little Blue Truck by Alice Shertle, illustrated by Jill McElmurry
Little Blue Truck always greets his friends along the road, even when Dump Truck brags that he doesn’t have time for greetings– he’s got big, important work to do. But when Dump Truck gets stuck in mud, nobody comes to help. Nobody, that is, except Little Blue Truck. And when Little Blue Truck gets stuck, too–they’ll need all the friends they can get! This cute, rhyming story is a perfect reminder of the power of kindness– even when you’re big and important!
Ten Little Ladybugs by Melanie Gerth, illustrated by Laura Huliska-Beith
Little readers learn to count backwards in this fun, tactile board book! Ten touch & feel ladybugs disappear one-by-one as they encounter creatures such as a turtle, grasshopper, and a butterfly. But where have they all gone? Find out on the last page of this sweet rhyming book.
Where is Baby’s Belly Button? by Karen Katz
This fun lift-the-flap book introduces both body parts and place with its classic, interactive format. Each page asks “Where is Baby’s…” and the corresponding answer can be found after moving the flap! The youngest readers will love finding Baby’s hands under the bubbles, Baby’s eyes under her hat, and Baby’s feet behind the cat. Chances are, they’ll be finding their own body parts next!
All the World by Liz Garton Scanlon, illustrated by Marla Frazee
This beautiful board book edition of the Caldecott Honor picture book focuses on simple language and imagery to illustrate the many cycles and connections we share with all the world. From the beach to the garden, from trees and sky to home and family, the lyrical language and gorgeous illustrations remind us that we all belong to each other in this big, beautiful world.
Potty by Leslie Patricelli
Baby needs to go potty! But where? Bold colors and simple illustrations follow Baby as he watches Cat and Dog, wiggles and jiggles, and finally decides to try out the potty! But will it work? This book is simple and fun and perfect for any potty-training child!
I hope you enjoyed these Top 10 Board Books!
For more great ideas, feel free to check out Top 10 Wordless Picture Books or Top 10 Cumulative Picture Books!
And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss more great ideas and future blog posts!