As a mother of six young children, I’ve read my fair share of children’s books. It would truly be impossible for me to pick one solid favorite for each age-range but I do have particular books both my children and I enjoy greatly. Read-on to see my top-picks.

Ages 0-2 Years Old

While not a single specific book, but rather a collection of books written for the very young, Priddy Books are the best! With the brightly colored yet simple photographs and the large board-book format, these are an amazing introduction to reading for even the youngest child. Book-choices range from everyday vocabulary to construction vehicles and jungle animals. It’s amazing to witness your baby/toddler learn new words and bridge the gap, over time, between being able to identify the pictures as you read the labels aloud, to actually verbalizing the words on his/her own. Your toddler will love being able to “read” this book to you as his/her vocabulary expands.

Ages 3-4 Years Old

I Love You, Stinky Face, written by Linda McCourt, is a wonderful, whimsical story that follows a young child who wants to know “what if…?” as Mom says, “goodnight.” The illustrations bring to life the imaginings of a boy who wants to know if fantastical physical changes (for instance, being a monster or an alien) would change his mother’s love for him. With an equal level of imagination, his mother reassures him that her love could never waiver, even if she has to live near a swamp or pack bugs in his lunch. It’s funny, it’s sweet, and it’s the perfect bedtime story to share with your preschooler.

Ages 5-7 Years Old

A classic book with simple words and even simpler drawings, The Giving Tree, written by Shel Silverstein, has deep content and acts as a great conversation-starter about friendship, selfishness, love, and the seasons of one’s life.

I’m sure that both you and your child will enjoy these picture books. Curl up next to your little one and read one of these today. Reading together is such a cozy way to interact with your children and it seems for many, to be one of those positive memories that imprints for a lifetime.