BookSpring Book Reviewers submitted these recommendations for babies and toddlers. Be sure to access our Weekly Themes for digital books and activities for kids 3-8.
If You Give a Pig a Pancake by Laura Numeroff
Review by Kathleen and Owen (YMSL)
This book is excellent for children five or younger. It is a fun story, simply as the title says, about a pig and if you give him a pancake. You read about how one thing can spiral into so many more fun opportunities! It is an excellent book for creativity and imagination. Incorporate some fun and creative activities. See where it might take you and if it could lead you to something else you enjoy! You can also try making pancakes together. Access a digital read aloud here.
The Fish that Couldn’t Swim by Sarah Gaylard, Thulisizwe Mamba, Gisela Strydom
Review by Angela Augustino (APSA)
There once was a boy who could run and jump and climb. He could even make a noise like a seagull. But he couldn’t swim. And oh, how he wanted to. Then one day, he noticed a fish that couldn’t swim either. He tried to help the fish. The story is excellent for teaching and learning new activities! Access a digital read aloud here.
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr and John Archambault
Review by Kareena Sharma (UT WBA)
This book is great for kids age 3-7. I enjoyed it because it teaches the alphabet fun and helps kids get into it with super cute pictures. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is one of my favorite books of all time. It is fun to read aloud to kids.
Parent/Caregiver Tip:
Parents and caregivers, the brighter and more colorful the illustrations, the more likely your baby will enjoy the book! Reading together promotes cognitive development. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends beginning this practice at birth. Reading exposure is positively associated with activation of brain areas supporting mental imagery and narrative comprehension.