Infants 0 - 2 years
Board books are ideal for this age. Many are small enough for a child to carry and handle. They with-stand wear and tear and clumsy fingers and enable parents to relax when introducing books to a child.
When should I start reading to my child?
A new baby will love being held and hearing your voice, so start as early as possible. By two months babies are able to distinguish patterns and respond to highly contrasting colours and this is an ideal time to introduce bright, simple picture books.
What books suit young children?
- Board books, cloth and soft vinyl books
- Books with simple, large pictures with bright colours
- Books with white background so that the pictures can be easily seen
- Books with photos of other babies doing familiar things such as eating or playing
- Books with photos of familiar objects like food or toys
- Books with only a few words on each page
- Books with a simple rhyme
- Books about animals
- Tactile books which encourage ‘touch and feel’
- Sturdy lift the flap books