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Reading to Babies
- Maternity Mum
- Oct 10
- 2 min read
Reading to Babies: Simple Ways to Bond and Boost Development
By Holly Holyhead
As a mum and author, I know how powerful those quiet story moments can be. Even before babies understand words, they love your voice and the comfort of a big cuddle.
Why I recommend reading from birth
From the day they’re born, babies’ brains are wiring up for language.
A short story each night can signal “slow down now” and make bedtime calmer.
Making reading part of everyday life
Reading doesn’t have to be a big event, here are some easy ways to make it part of your normal day:
Keep a small basket of board books where you sit most so they’re always within reach.
Repetition is comforting; babies love hearing the same story again and again. You'll know the book off by heart soon.
Don’t worry about reading every word. Talk about the pictures, sing and use funny voices.
Choosing the right books
For tiny babies, high-contrast images and clear faces are easiest to see.
From three months onwards, simple rhythmic text and predictable patterns help them feel calm and engaged.
For bedtime, look for soft colours, gentle language and a clear start-to-finish flow.
My book: Press the Stars to Sleep
The stars are still awake… but with your child’s help, they’ll soon drift into a peaceful sleep.
In this magical, interactive bedtime story, little readers press, trace, blow and whisper to help the stars settle down for the night. Along the way they will calm their own minds for a restful sleep.
Perfect for ages 0–5, Press the Stars to Sleep blends gentle, sensory actions with a soothing bedtime routine. Each page invites your child to join in pressing the sparkliest star, tracing a sleepy swirl, counting as the stars close their eyes. Turning storytime into a calming, mindful experience.
With whimsical, star-filled illustrations and simple, reassuring text, this book helps children relax and feel ready for sleep while sharing a quiet, connected moment with you.
Top tip
Reading doesn’t have to be perfect or long just five quiet minutes is enough to spark language and connection.
For more baby tips, explore the Maternity Mum blog and if you’d like a calm, interactive bedtime book, try Press the Stars to Sleep.
