It’s no exaggeration to say my two daughters are absolute bookworms! They love reading so much that for a while, I had to “outsource” the job to their dad. Whenever they’d pick up a book, I’d practically run away—I was exhausted! My voice would go dry, but they’d just look at me with those big, adorable eyes and say, “Mommy, again!”
Since both of my girls are under four, my recommendations focus on the absolute favorites for babies and toddlers (ages 0-3).
1. The Sandra Boynton Series
I honestly think everyone knows these books—they are just that popular. I first started with The Big Green Box. My eldest daughter was obsessed with Moo, Baa, La La La!; I’ve probably read it no less than 100 times! Every time we finished, she would immediately pick it up, shove it back into my hands, and shout, “Again, again!” Especially when we got to the part “Three singing pigs say…”, she would beat me to it by shouting “LALA LALA!”, which always made the whole family burst into laughter.
Later, I just went ahead and bought The Big Blue Box and The Big Yellow Box as well. After my second daughter was born, the eldest—though she couldn’t read yet—would mimic my tone perfectly, flipping the pages and “reading” to her little sister. These perfectly sized board books are not only durable enough for chewing and tossing but have become a magical bond connecting the two sisters.
2. The Very Hungry Caterpillar
In the world of board books, I don’t think any insect is more famous than this “hungry caterpillar.” I bought this one back when my eldest was a baby. The little hole designs are perfect for that stage where babies love poking everything; she used to spend so much time just sticking her fingers in them.
The funniest part was always reaching the Saturday “feast” page. She would copy me, pointing at the cupcakes, watermelon, and sausages, pretending to grab them off the page and put them in her mouth, making “Munch, munch” chewing sounds. Every time we reached the end and the giant, colorful butterfly appeared with the turn of the page, she’d kick her legs and clap in excitement. Now the second one has inherited this “battle-worn” copy. Even though the edges are a bit frayed from the eldest’s poking, it’s still sturdy and holding up—the quality is truly impressive.
3. Little Blue Truck
We have two girls, and while most people imagine girls liking dolls, mine are definitely not like that—they are obsessed with cars! Whether it’s a toy or a board book, as long as it’s a “vehicle,” they love it. My eldest was completely “obsessed” with this little blue truck when she was about 18 months old. Every time I read “Beep! Beep! Beep!”, she would excitedly tap the play mat and follow along.
The Little Blue Truck is a brave, helpful, and hopeful character, exactly what I hope my children will eventually become, so from my perspective, I’m very grateful for a book that can guide them this way. Subside note: The buildings are really neat looking and keep my child’s interest, and the vehicles have interesting faces on them.
4. Goodnight Moon
Such a classic bedtime story, and a must for little babies that are getting introduced to books. Very low stimulation and gradually gets lower stimulation as the book goes on to go into nighttime mode. The gentle rhythm, simple words, and cozy illustrations make bedtime feel special and soothing. You might find it boring at first, but once you’ve read it three times and your baby falls asleep nestled in your arms, you’ll discover its magic.
5. Dear Zoo
The repetitive storyline makes it easy to anticipate the next lines and memorize (great for foundational reading skills). She loves pulling the flaps down and pointing to all the animals. The only con is the same with all flap books—little hands ripping them off! It’s a perfect mix of surprise, humor, and gentle pacing, and the bold illustrations make each animal instantly recognizable and exciting.
6. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is a staple in our house, mainly because it’s so rhythmic and durable. The rhythmic, almost musical text makes reading a dynamic and engaging experience. The illustrations are bright and high-contrast, which really helps in keeping a toddler’s focus. It’s one of those rare books that manages to be both educational and visually stimulating without being overwhelming. Overall, it’s a simple, honest recommendation for any parent. It’s a great tool for early literacy that’s tough enough to survive the toddler years.
7. Giraffes Can’t Dance
This book tells the story of a giraffe named Gerald who isn’t very good at dancing. Because the other animals mock his clumsy moves, he loses confidence in his abilities. That is, until a cricket who has been watching him encourages him to find the music he loves deep down and dance in his own way. Following this advice and ignoring the judgments of others, Gerald dances to his own rhythm and discovers he actually can dance. At the party, he finally becomes himself and leaves the other animals deeply impressed.
To be honest, I didn’t just buy this for the kids; I bought it for myself. During the first six months of being a mom, I cared so much about others’ opinions. I constantly doubted if I was a “good mom,” even trying to mimic those “perfect moms” online by doing things my daughter didn’t actually like… I love this book because it helped me find myself again. At the same time, the kids love the rhyming text and the bright, vivid illustrations. All in all, it’s a wonderful book!
8. Guess How Much I Love You
Without exaggeration, this book gave my eldest and me our best bonding moments. It is tender, simple, and deeply touching. The dialogue between Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare as they confirm who “loves the other more” is perfect for role-playing between a mom and her baby. We’d stretch our arms out wide and jump high, just like the characters, to show our love for one another.
Shortly after we started reading this, I had my second daughter. It was a huge change for the eldest; I wasn’t “her” mom alone anymore. But I would tell her, “Baby, don’t worry. Remember Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare? I will always, always love you just like Big Nutbrown Hare.” We’ve smoothly moved past that period of adjustment now, and I’m so thankful this book helped her understand the depth of my love.
9. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Okay, another great interactive book. With its vibrant colors and strong repetitive sentence structures, it’s a classic for introducing colors and animals. I often read this to them after they wake up from their afternoon nap. I’ll point to the pictures and let them guess the colors first, and then we’ll read the rhythmic story together. Both of them absolutely love it.
About me：From a high-achieving entrepreneur to a full-time mom of two, I’ve traded business meetings for diaper changes and daily chaos. After navigating the steep learning curve of motherhood—from postpartum recovery to the “two under two” struggle—I founded this blog to keep the light on for other moms. I apply my professional problem-solving skills to offer real, unfiltered survival guides and “mom hacks.” This is a space for honest solidarity, proving your value isn’t lost at home. Let’s navigate the pitfalls and joys of motherhood together—one practical tip at a time.
Reviewed and Approved by Dr. Jieqiong Liu, PhD, whose primary research focuses on Pediatric Medicine.
