My world changed in more way than one when my twins transformed from tiny newborns to active wiggling, rolling, crawling babies. Suddenly nothing on the floor was safe, they frequently took off in different directions, and they weren’t so content to sit and listen to me talk or read to them.
Babies from around 10 months until they turn 2 are some of my favorites. They are curious and affectionate. They are easily redirected and most problems can be solved with a hug. Children this age are delightful, but they aren’t good at sitting still for stories.
So, do you just give up?
I’m sure you know that an early introduction to excellent books is a big part creating a lifetime love of books. Those brief first five years set the stage for how kids feel about books and reading.
So, no. You can’t give up. What then?
The secret is to find the right books.
Our twins have different preferences when it comes to most things, including books, but these are 10 books that our kids adored when they were between the ages of one and two.
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Best Books for One Year Old Babies
1. Freight Train by Donald Crews
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Perfectly simple, this is Donald Crews’ masterpiece. We read this book a million times to the point where I know it by memory.
2. Everywhere Babies by Susan Meyers
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I believe it is the diverse, detailed illustrations that truly drew us into this book. Sweet story about the universality of infancy and parenting. Beautiful book.
3. Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes… by Annie Kubler
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We love all of her books for their simplicity, musicality, and integrated sign language. Sing, move, and engage with your little one with this delight.
4. B is for Bear by Roger Priddy
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This book was a well loved gift. It is an easy introduction to the alphabet with a variety of vocabulary, textures, and quality photography.
5. Hurry! Hurry! By Eve Bunting
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Eve Bunting masters the excitement of spring in this favorite. A rooster calls the farm animals to hurry to the barn. All the typical animals energetically gather for a wonderful surprise.
6. Happy Hippo, Angry Duck by Sandra Boynton
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Emotions are something that infants and toddlers are curious about as they begin to develop an awareness of their feelings and those of others. This is an amusing discussion of feelings.
7. My Very First Book of Colors by Eric Carle
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An unique color book from a classic artist. Beautiful trademark illustrations and interactive premise encourage a discussion and exploration of colors.
8. Barnyard Banter by Denise Fleming
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One of our all time favorite books. Denise Fleming perfectly matches lively language with colorful illustrations. This book will engage your little one in a careful investigation of the illustrations to catch a glimpse of the elusive goose.
9. Hush, Little Baby by Marla Frazee
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Darling edition of the folk song “Hush, Little Baby.” The book follows the traditional lyrics, but it is Frazee’s illustrations that make this something special. Detailed, expressive, and warm – the pictures will draw in their readers to ensure a new generation will enjoy this song.
10. What Shall We Do With The Boo-Hoo Baby? By Cressida Cowell
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I believe it is my dramatic BooHooing that possibly made this book a favorite – make sure to read with enthusiasm. Amusing book about a group of animals attempting to calm a crying baby.
