By Jennifer in the Youth Services Office

Developing a bond with parents and caregivers is the first step in social and emotional development for infants and toddlers. These bonds set the stage for milestones like smiling and laughing, self-regulation, showing empathy when others are hurt or upset, developing relationships with peers and following directions. Talking, reading and singing with your baby can develop social skills. Cuddling and holding your baby aids in the emotional development of feeling safe, happy and confident. What a great combination snuggling up with a story can be! Grab a good book and bond with your little one. 

Here are some suggestions for books about love and family. Be sure to ask your librarian for more.

Always by Emma Dodd. In rhyming text, a baby elephant is assured of being loved unconditionally.

Love is All Around by Nikki Shannon Smith, illustrated by Ronique Ellis. A little girl observes the ways that love is shown and shared throughout her day. From Sister's kisses when she wakes to eating breakfast with her family and playing with friends at school, love is all around.

Love You By Heart by Peter H. Reynolds. Unconditional love is celebrated in this delightful and poetic tribute to the rare and beautiful love that binds two hearts.

I Wheelie Love You by Hannah Eliot, illustrated by Denise Holmes. This adorable board book is filled with sweet sayings that will delight little readers -- as well as big readers who love puns! It's a tender, truck-filled book that's perfect for Valentine's Day or any time of year!

My Moms Love Me by Anna Mambrino, illustrated by Joy Hwang Ruiz. Perfect for reading aloud with its rhyming, rhythmic text, this picture book finds two mommies sharing a perfect day with their little one, from visiting animals on the farm to bedtime snuggles.

I Already Love You by Wila Perlman, illustrated by Sally Walker. This board book bursts with heart as it describes the love a parent feels for their child from the moment of meeting and beyond. From eyes to lips, to fingers to toes, all parents will know what it feels like to love every inch of your baby, and babies and toddlers will feel the love too.

Questions or need more ideas? Email racingtoread@thelibrary.org.