Reading lists

The best books for new parents

Plush blankets, cute outfits and fluffy toys are all delightful gifts to purchase for loved ones with a new baby. But a book's benefits are twofold – it’s a gift for the parent as well as the baby.

Best books for new parents
Ryan MacEachern/Penguin

It’s never too early for parents to start reading out loud to that new bundle of joy they’ve just brought into the world. Books strengthen the parent-child bond, lay the foundations for children’s language and literacy skills, and help establish routines – plus it’s something both parties can enjoy. That is, provided you have a good library of stories.

So, we’ve compiled a list of books that are perfect for reading between feeding, napping, changing and all the mayhem that comes with being a new parent.

What did you think of this article? Let us know by emailing editor@penguin.co.uk.

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