Babies Love Books!

Many parents wonder when to start reading to a baby.

I suggest reading to your baby even before six weeks of age.

Your baby won't understand what you are reading, but your baby will like the comfort of snuggling up with a good book.

Most babies love the rhythm and sound of your voice when reading.

Start with small amounts of time.

Make sure your baby is comfortable and alert.

Babies like some books more than others.

Books for babies need to be strong and durable.

Babies should be allowed to play with books, throw books, and even chew on books.

When your baby turns two, you can teach the proper way to treat books.

Finding good books for babies to explore can be overwhelming. There are thousands of baby books out there.

Which ones will your baby want to explore? Which books will be your baby's favorites?

Don't be surprised if you find yourself reading the same favorite book to your baby 100 times or more.

Books for babies are short, and you will find many babies want the same story read over and over in the same sitting.

Babies usually like books with simple illustrations, repeated language, rhyme, and repeated sounds. Cardboard and cloth books are sturdy and can hold up to being thrown, crawled on, chewed on, and being treated as toys.

My children played with their books as much as their toys when they were babies and toddlers. Interactive books with touch and feel options, holes, flaps, and parts that move will keep your baby or toddler engaged in books.

• Maybe I can convince you with my Top Five Reasons to Read to a Baby. Keep reading.

• gives a baby information about the world.
• exposes a baby to the sounds of speech.
• builds vocabulary knowledge.
• boosts the ability to listen and remember.
• develops a love of books and reading.