We all know the usuals…Goodnight Moon…Runaway Bunny…Pat the Bunny. But what are some other good baby books that you could give as a baby or toddler gift?
Unfortunately, most of the big box stores have baby books featuring watered down stories of super heroes and cartoon characters (those marketing people are smart!). Dora and Boots are fun, but they are not going to enrich a child’s imagination or appreciation for literature and art – both which start developing in infancy.
A refined person is also a well-read one. Since a love for reading begins during childhood, I think books are the absolute best gifts you can give babies and toddlers.
Sometimes, though, I need some new book ideas, especially for younger siblings that have probably already read the tried and true board books passed down from their older siblings. That’s why I recently reached out to my chic English friend for some ideas. And she let me in on some wonderful books she read as a child that are still popular in England today. All were found on Amazon for a total of less than $20!
The first is Each Peach Pear Plum. Can’t you just see Duchess Cate reading this to Prince George during one of their lovely picnic outings?
The second is Peek-A-Boo. What wonderful pictures about which to discuss and point out so many things to baby!
I already knew about the third one she recommended, Dear Zoo. My first born adored this book. And don’t all babies and toddlers love pop up books?
When you give hardcover or board books with beautiful illustrations, you are also giving an heirloom that can be read for generations to come. I have so many books that I read to my children that were actually gifts to me when I was a little girl! I still love reading the inscriptions in each one. (So don’t forget to write a note on the inside cover of books you give because it will make a $20 gift even more special that something you could buy for $100!)
With lovely wrapping, and adorned with a rose from my garden, this made a perfect birthday present for our little one year old friend. 
{Sources} – Books: Amazon; Wrapping Paper: Target; Ribbon: Amazon
What do you think?