Reading is one of the most enjoyable and important bonding experiences a parent can have with their children. If you are searching for books for a baby shower gift or just adding to your own collection, below are a few classics to choose from:

The Boss Baby by Marla Franz

An honest look at just who rules the roost once the baby comes along – the baby, of course!! Charming pictures set the scene of the family life as an office, with the parents as the beleaguered workers, and the baby as the tyrannical leader of the pack.  Experienced parents will be nodding in agreement on every page.

The Day The Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

Poor Duncan sits down at school to draw, only to find his crayons are nowhere to be found. They’re not happy with him or one another, and in their place is a riotous list of their issues and demands. The illustrations and language will make you laugh out loud at each crayon’s very distinctive personality.

The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton

Over 70 years old, this is a tale that has stood the test of time. A simple story about the life of a country house, throughout the seasons and over a period of generations, is beautifully written and illustrated by this famous local author.

Freight Train by Donald Crews

This beginner book provides an excellent early instruction on colors, counting and active language, as well as identifying all the moving parts to an actual freight train.

Goodnight Gorilla by Peggy Rothman

Small on words but big on action, this is a story any child can provide the narration for in a very comical take on what happens when Joe the security guard closes down the zoo for the night.  Children who love mischievous animals will find this to be a favorite.

Pete’s A Pizza by William Steig

A rainy day cancels a boy’s plans with his pals, but his Dad saves the day with a truly original way of passing the time. Tactile learners will appreciate this very clever story-telling.

Ten Sleepy Sheep by Phyllis Root

These sheep, like most children, are not even remotely interested in bedtime.  The author uses alliteration and poetic language in this beautifully illustrated counting book to put the sheep to sleep one-by-one.

I Love You Because You’re You by Liza Baker

Love is the central message here, as a mother assures her child that no matter the mood nor the circumstance, her love for him will always be there.

Dear Tooth Fairy by Alan Durant

A charming story about a young girl named Holly who has lost her first tooth and is unsure whether she wants to leave it for the Tooth Fairy.  Instead, she decides to leave a note and what ensues is an exchange of comical messages between Holly and the Tooth Fairy, which readers can extract from envelopes physically attached to the book.  The story is a nice pick for children who are curious.

Fanny by Holly Hobbie

Fanny’s mother refuses to buy her a doll that is the latest fad so she decides to make one of her very own.  Her friends aren’t impressed with the result and she’s left wondering if her efforts were in vain.  Fanny is a sweet tale about having the courage to be a true original.

Little Blue Truck Leads the Way by Alice Schertle

A little country bumpkin truck ventures into the city to make a delivery and winds up teaching the city vehicles about adjusting their pace in life.  Wonderful book illustrating the lesson that being first isn’t the most important thing in life.

Amy Warren is a freelance writer and mother of two young children.
For children’s reading corner ideas, click here

What’s your favorite baby or children’s book? Leave your response in our comments section!