Top Board Books for Babies and Toddlers
My daughter is older now, but I kept all of her favorite board books…I just couldn’t bear to give them up! Now with another baby on the way, we get the chance to reread them. I thought I’d make a list of my favorites for you guys! Reading to your toddler is more than just a fun activity—it’s a meaningful way to build a deeper connection. These beloved board books create special moments of closeness while encouraging interaction, affection, and trust. Check out the whole list here.
The Pout Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen
Join Mr. Fish on his journey from grumpy to gleeful with this rhyming story! This is my absolute favorite story! Buy it here.
Bonding Benefits: The playful rhymes and relatable emotions offer opportunities to comfort your child while discussing feelings together.
If Animals Said I Love You by Ann Whitford Paul
This story is about how animals would say I love you if they could! Great for animal loving toddlers. Buy it here.
Bonding Benefits: Sharing tender “I love you” moments strengthens emotional closeness and helps your child feel cherished.
Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt
This interactive classic invites toddlers to explore touch-and-feel elements alongside you. Buy it here.
Bonding Benefits: Engage with your child through sensory play, building trust and connection through shared exploration.
I Love You Night and Day by Smriti Prasadam-Halls
A soothing story about unconditional love, perfect for bedtime snuggles. Buy it here.
Bonding Benefits: The calming rhythm and heartfelt message create a comforting atmosphere for shared cuddles and reassurance.
Love You Always
This beautifully illustrated book celebrates the endless love between parent and child. Buy it here.
Bonding Benefits: Reading this together reinforces your child’s sense of security and reminds them of your unconditional love.
Pajama Time by Sandra Boynton
This was one of our favorite books to read before bed! My daughter laughs and laughs at this one! Buy it here.
Bonding Benefits: The fun, interactive nature makes bedtime routines enjoyable while creating a nightly tradition to connect with your child.
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle
This repetitive, sing-song favorite delights toddlers with its colorful characters.
Bonding Benefits: The interactive nature of pointing out animals and colors fosters engagement and shared joy during storytime. Buy it here.
Peekaboo Lion by Camilla Reid
This book is so interactive, it has sliders and flaps on almost every page! Lift the flaps together to reveal surprises in this engaging book. Buy it here!
Bonding Benefits: Sharing the joy of discovery strengthens your connection and encourages interactive play.
Thomas the Tank Big Yellow Treasury by Reverend W. Awdry
Thomas and his friends are some of favorite children’s characters! This treasury has 3 different stories to enjoy. Buy it here.
Bonding Benefits: The timeless lessons and relatable stories create opportunities for meaningful conversations and imaginative play.
Why Reading Strengthens Bonds
Storytime isn’t just about reading—it’s about the closeness, laughter, and memories you create together. These board books encourage physical closeness, emotional connections, and shared joy, making each reading session a treasured bonding experience. We hope you enjoy our favorite picks!
Snuggle up with your toddler and enjoy these nine heartwarming books that will bring you closer while fostering a love for reading!
