In our daycare, books aren’t just part of the daily routine—they are the routine. From cozy morning cuddles to winding down before nap time, board books are constantly in little hands, being flipped, chewed, dropped, stacked, and—most importantly—loved.
If you walked into our space at any given moment, you’d likely find a toddler proudly “reading” to a friend, a baby exploring textures with curious fingers, or a group gathered around for storytime. And time and time again, we find ourselves reaching for titles from Gibbs Smith—a publisher that truly understands what young children (and busy caregivers) need.
I write a lovely piece on my daycare website about why board books are our first choice when choosing literature for the kids.
Read it here: https://www.littleduckfamilychildcare.com/2026/03/our-favourite-board-books-why-rotating.html?m=1
Why Board Books Are a Big Deal in Early Childhood
We’ve tried a lot of books over the years, and Gibbs Smith continues to stand out.
Their titles are:
- Bright and visually engaging
- Thoughtfully written for early learners
- Built tough for everyday use
- Full of variety—from educational basics to adorable stories
Some of our absolute favorites include:
- “BabyLit” series (a fun introduction to classic literature concepts)
- “Indestructibles” (yes… basically toddler-proof!)
- “TouchThinkLearn” books (perfect for sensory exploration)
These books don’t just sit on shelves—they’re part of our everyday learning and play.
The Benefits of Board Books for Babies & Toddlers
Encouraging board books early on isn’t just cute—it’s incredibly important for development. Here’s why:
📚 1. Builds Early Language Skills
Hearing words, rhythms, and repetition helps babies and toddlers develop vocabulary—even before they can talk.
🧠2. Supports Cognitive Development
Simple concepts like colors, shapes, numbers, and animals lay the groundwork for early learning.
🤲 3. Encourages Independence
Board books are easy for little hands to hold and turn, giving children a sense of control and confidence.
❤️ 4. Strengthens Emotional Bonds
Snuggling up with a book creates connection, comfort, and security—something every child needs.
👀 5. Enhances Sensory Exploration
Many board books include textures, cut-outs, and bold visuals that stimulate curiosity and engagement.
💪 6. Built to Last (and Survive Toddlers!)
Let’s be honest—books in a daycare go through a lot. Board books can handle bending, tossing, and even teething.
🕒 7. Helps Create Routine
Storytime becomes a predictable and calming part of the day, helping with transitions like nap time.
Why We Encourage Board Books at Home Too
One of the best things you can do as a parent is to make books part of your child’s everyday life—right from the start.
You don’t need a huge library. Just a small collection of well-loved board books (especially ones from trusted publishers like Gibbs Smith) can make a huge impact.
Read the same book over and over. Let them hold it upside down. Let them babble through the story. That’s how learning begins.
Final Thoughts
Board books may seem simple, but they are one of the most powerful tools we use in our daycare. They support development, encourage connection, and foster a lifelong love of reading—starting in the earliest years.
And when you find high-quality, engaging options like those from Gibbs Smith, it makes the experience even more meaningful—for both children and caregivers.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about reading words on a page—it’s about building memories, one tiny book at a time. 💛
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