A story together
How do I read to a baby?
Your baby doesn't need to understand the story for you to share a book. Start with a picture and a few words. You can leave the rest for another day.
About 2 minutes
Start with what you have
Choose a book already on your shelf or one you can borrow. You don't need an app, a special reading kit, or a new purchase. A book with a clear picture gives you somewhere to start; it doesn't have to be an elaborate story.
Settle somewhere comfortable while you're awake and able to give your baby your attention. Let them see your face as well as the page. You can read the words, name a picture, or make a small sound to match it. Your voice and expression are part of sharing the book. source
For a page with a duck, you might say, “A yellow duck. Quack, quack.” Pause. Look at your baby. If they make a sound, you can answer with another gentle quack. There is no performance to get right.
Let your baby help set the pace
Stay with a picture that interests them. Skip ahead if they reach for another page. As babies grow, touching, patting and exploring sturdy books can be part of the experience. You don't have to keep their hands still while you read. source
If your baby looks away, arches away or starts fussing, take a break. Finishing the book can wait. The age suggestions on book lists are starting points, so choose what works for your baby today. source
A small thing to try today
Open to one picture. Say what you see, add a sound if you like, and leave a little pause. That's the whole invitation. You can close the book there or keep going together.
On a stretched day, try a familiar rhyme while you get ready to go out, or talk about the bird outside the window. Books can have a place alongside those ordinary conversations. You don't need to turn every quiet moment into another task.
Where this advice comes from
Links checked 17 October 2026. These are the sources behind this page.