Every child expert recommends reading to your child, but much as we’d like to, the truth is that many of us don’t find time during the day. But bedtime is a different story altogether (pun intended)! At bedtime, the day’s troubles are over, the bright sun is out, the whole world is quiet, and it’s time for Mommy and baby to wind down together. And what better way than with a bedtime book?
It never is too early to read to your child; you can even start when he’s in-utero!! Set up a pleasing bedtime routine for your baby right from birth, and make sure it always ends with a story. If you’re wondering where on earth you’ll find a story book for an infant, you’ve come to the right place! Here are our top 10 picks of bedtime books for babies – classics that have soothed and calmed many a baby down the generations. If you ask us, they’ll beat technology any day!
10 Must Have Bedtime Books for Babies
1. Llama Llama, Red Pajama
Moms will identify with Mother Llama in this book! Mother Llama tucks baby llama to sleep and goes downstairs. But as soon as his Mom leaves, baby llama begins to cry which turns into a loud holler!! With lots of Mother-baby pictures, infants are sure to be enthralled by this book.
2. Goodnight Moon
You’re probably already expecting this book and so here it is! Goodnight Moon is undoubtedly the most popular bedtime book for babies, across the world! With very simple and repetitive text, this book is a sure way to slumber-land. You can also have fun with baby looking for that pesky little mouse!
3. The Runaway Bunny
The Runaway Bunny is another gem from the author of Goodnight Moon and tells us the story of a bunny who runs away, only to find that wherever he goes, he’ll have his mother to protect him. A lovely tale of a mother’s love, the pictures in soothing colors will help baby drift away.
4. Pajama Time
Sandra Boynton is a must read children’s author, and this book in particular is perfect for babies! With her trademark silliness and fun rhymes, this book is a great way to enjoy a story with your baby. Warning: may result in some adorable chuckles!
5. Good Night, Gorilla
It’s bedtime at the zoo, and the zookeeper is going around, checking if all the animals are asleep. But no wait, there’s a furry little guy sneaking up behind him! Why isn’t he asleep like the other animals? You’ll have to read the book to find out!
6. Counting Kisses: A Kiss and Read Book
We love Karen Katz books for babies, and would recommend them all! In this book, a tired baby is in need of some cuddles and kisses before going to sleep. But how many does she need? Why, all you need to do is count and see! Kiss your baby throughout this book for some extra fun!
7. Good Night, Little Bear
Just like so many little bears all over the world, the little bear in this book too doesn’t want to sleep even though it’s bedtime! Follow his colorful adventures through the beautiful pictures and rhyming text as baby’s eyes gradually close and she dozes off!
8. Time for Bed
It’s bedtime for everyone, even the animals, and you can read how each animal Mommy puts her young one to sleep. This book features gorgeous watercolor illustrations that support the story beautifully. The repetitive text is very soothing and is sure to lull your little one to sleep.
9. On the Night you were Born
You know your child is precious, but now you can let her know it too through this book. One of the most appreciated books of all time, it describes how the world celebrated when your baby was born, and how special she is to you. It’s a lovely book that children are likely to ask for even when they’re older.
10. Sleepy Kittens
Okay, so this isn’t exactly an old classic, seeing how it’s inspired from the movie, Despicable Me!! But this book can’t be missed out, with it’s story of three adorable kittens, who come as finger puppets! Your baby will be delighted to see his book’s characters actually move and speak!
When reading to your baby at bedtime, make it interesting by changing the tone of your voice, but try not to make things too exciting!! You want your baby to look forward to the next story session, but you don’t want her wound up and unable to sleep. So dim the lights a little, settle her into comfy pajamas, lie down together and open the gates to dreamland.