The Best New Kids Books of 2023…So Far

by Amber GuetebierOctober 5, 2023

This year brings us adventures near and far and a celebration of history and culture like never before

This year has no shortage of outstanding children’s books, from new board books to picture books to chapter books they won’t be able to put down. We’ve started our list of the best children’s books of 2023 with a bang. This year we’re heading to Last Chance, Minnesota with Maizy Chen, taking a bath with chickens and hippos, and dancing in the rain under a bright yellow umbrella.

Board Books

Bee: A Peek-Through Board Book by Britta Teckentrup

Buzz through the seasons with the busy bee in this charmingly illustrated, interactive board book. The die-cut pages hold plenty of surprises for those little minds to discover. Plus, it teaches kids about the importance of bees.

Ages: 0 to 2
Buy it here, $10

Hello, World! Let’s Go Camping by Jill McDonald

Just in time for summer fun, tote this little board book along on your next camping trip and learn about the great outdoors and all the stars through shapes, sizes, simple facts, and colors.

Ages: 0 to 2

Buy it here, $9

Belly Button Book by Sandra Boynton

the belly button book is one of the best childrens books 2023

With classics like Hippos Go Berserk (which recently celebrated its 45^th anniversary) and The Going to Bed Book, Sandra Boynton has entertained generations of tiny ones with her rhyming joyful books. Her latest board book is a die-cut interactive book in her style, a celebration of the humble belly button.

Ages: 0-2
Buy it here, $8

How Do You Take a Bath? by Kate McMullan, illustrated by Sydney Hanson

Kate McMullan, the author behind I Stink and I’m Dirty, which inspired The Stinky and Dirty Show, is back with a board book themed around a relatable topic to babies and toddlers: bath time. Featuring animals like elephants, pigs, monkeys, and hippos, their bath time rituals don’t always involve what we think of as clean (chickens bathe in the dirt??).

Ages: 0-2

Buy it here, $8

The Sleepy Bunny: A Springtime Story About Being Yourself from DK Books, illustrated by Clare Wilson

The Sleepy Bunny is one of the best new childrens books 2023

Read the story of one sleepy little bunny with nocturnal tendencies, the book promotes social and emotional learning (SEL) themes by teaching children compassion toward others while maintaining a positive sense of self.

Ages: 0-5

Buy it now, $7

Kind Crocodile by Leo Timmers

One incredibly kind crocodile leaves his pond and explores the world, spreading kindness and protection to other creatures. A darling board book from New York Times Illustrated Book Award-winning author Leo Timmers.

Ages: 0 to 4

Buy it now, $17

Best Children’s Books of 2023: Picture Books

There's a Yeti in My Tummy

This adorable picture book is about a boy named Matthew who has Yeti-sized silly feelings and sometimes has a hard time keeping them inside. With a fun rhyming cadence and wonderful illustrations, kids will enjoy reading this book that shows that feelings are a good thing and that there are lots of positive ways to channel them.

Ages: 4-6

Get it here, $20

Mother of Sharks by Melissa Cristina Márquez, Illustrated by Devin Elle Kurtz

mother of sharks is a new childrens book 2023

World-renowned shark scientist Melissa Márquez teamed up with award-winning illustrator Devil Elle Kurtz to bring kids an epic picture book full of science and real-life adventure. Detailing the story of how Márquez grew from an ocean-loving kid in Puerto Rico to one of the most famous scientists today, the book is full of educational facts about sharks and seeks to dispel the misinformation about sharks. A gorgeous, intelligent book every kid should read!

Ages: 5 to 8

Get it here, $18

My Dad Is a Tree by John Agee

Pick this one up for the father figure in your child’s life. Read it and act it out along with your kids as you imagine your body is a trunk and your arms branches. Find a nest in your hair and a squirrel on your shoulder. A beautiful story that celebrates the awe children have for adults and how important it is to just be silly sometimes!

Ages: 4 to 8
Get it here, $16

Can We Please Give the Police Department to the Grandmothers? By Junauda Petrus, illustrated by Kristen Uroda

Based on the viral poem written by Coretta Scott King honoree Junauda Petrus after the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, MO in 2014, the poem—and the book—ask the question: what if grandmothers were the ones in charge of public safety? It’s radical, it’s full of joy, so is it really that out of the question?

Ages: 4 to 8

Get it here, $13

The ABCs of Asian American History by Renee Macalino Rutledge, illustrated by Lauren Akazawa Mendez

Use the alphabet to learn about famous people, holidays, traditions, cuisine, and other facts from nineteen Asian American groups. A beautiful addition to any picture book collection, which will improve vocabulary while celebrating the diversity, resilience, and beauty of Asian American culture.

Ages: 5 to 8

Buy it here, $13

The Knowing by Ani DiFranco, illustrated by Julia Mathew

If you aren’t already a fan of feminist icon and Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Ani DiFranco, you will be after you read this new book with your children. Using succinct prose and gorgeous illustrations, children are encouraged to celebrate all of their own unique identities along with those of others.

Ages: 3 to 5

Buy it now, $11

The Glow Show by Suzi Schafer

Squid shines and he knows it, and he loves to be the center of attention. So much so, that he ignores the helpful suggestions of his friends to learn new things. But when he ends up in a colorful place where he isn’t the brightest creature around, Squid learns how to share the spotlight.

Ages: 4 to 8

Buy it here, $10

Peaceful Me by Sandra V. Feder, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell

Peaceful Me is one of the best childrens books 2023

The duo behind Angry Me is back with another book aimed at helping children deal with big emotions. In this book, the main character explains times when he feels the most peaceful, offering kids and parents a gateway to talk about times that make them feel good, calm, and centered. (Pub date: May 2).

Ages: 3 to 6

Buy it here, $17

The Umbrella by Beth Ferry and Tom Lichtenheld

The muted tones of a dreary, rain-soaked day are pierced with the bright yellow of a tattered umbrella. An uplifting story, something tattered can be renewed as the shreds of this umbrella turn into a garden of cheerful yellow umbrellas, ready to be harvested so children can continue to play, even in the rain. The umbrella itself is a nod to Lichetenheld’s long-time collaborator, children’s book illustrator Amy Krouse Rosenthal, and the umbrella she used in her Beckoning of Lovely project.

Ages: 4 to 8

Buy it here, $15

The Night Before Freedom by Glenda Armand, illustrated by Corey Barksdale

The Night Before Freedom, best childrens books 2023

A little eight-year-old boy gathers with his family in Galveston, Texas to celebrate Juneteenth, including his beloved grandma, and to hear his grandmother’s story of her own grandma’s experience of the first Juneteenth. The title and cadence are a nod to"The Night Before Christmas," leaving young readers with a moving, memorable story.

Ages: 4 to 8

Buy it here, $16

Remember by Joy Harjo, illustrated by Michaela Goade

Reconnect with US Poet Laureate Joy Harjo’s renowned poem, “Remember” in this edition paired with illustrations from Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade. The words, “Remember the sky you were born under,” will take on new meaning as you read it with your child.

Ages: 4 to 8

Buy it now, $16

Early Chapter Books

If your kids are fans of the Dory series, then you'll want to continue the fun with book six! In this installment, Dory loses her mother in the hardware store and then starts to worry that her mom might take off forever. The solution? To haunt her entire family so she'll never lose them again. In true Dory fashion, this book is filled with fun and adventures.

Ages: 6-8

Get it here, $15

The Creative Writing Playbook For Kids ONLY! by Megan Wagner Lloyd, illustrated by Madeline Garcia

Whether on a road trip or a long plane ride, or looking to keep summer slide at bay, this wonderful interactive journal-creativity book marries ideas, inspiration, and illustrations to offer kids a way to spark creativity and enjoy the art of storytelling. Kids will learn to build character arcs, draw scenes, make their own graphic novels, and more!

Ages 7 to 10

Get it here, $8

Mission: Arctic by Katharina Weiss-Tuider, illustrated by Christian Schneider

Explore the Arctic with this richly detailed picture-book-style chapter book that's full of scientific information about the unique ecosystem of the Arctic and how it is changing before our eyes. Kids will go on a journey to discover the real-life 2019 expedition of the MOSAiC, the largest Arctic expedition to date. Includes photos from the expedition, illustrations, facts, discoveries, and harrowing tales!

Ages: 9 to 14

Get it here, $23

Weird But True Know-It-All: Middle Ages by Michael Burgan

Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the Middle Ages (and maybe a few things you didn’t!) is packed into this richly illustrated book. Just don’t be surprised when the kids bust out some facts about the plague or pits of fire.

Ages: 8 to 12

Buy it now, $11

She Persisted: Florence Nightingale by Shelli R. Johannes and Chelsea Clinton

Did you know that Florence Nightingale knew she wanted to be a nurse when she was a teenager? And though her parents tried to convince her it wasn’t suitable for a woman, she persisted and as a result, she saved countless lives. The world would not be the same if it weren’t for her, and this celebration of her resilience and rebel spirit is a joy to read. And yes, it’s that Chelsea Clinton.

Ages: 6 to 9

Buy it here, $6

Middle-Grade Books

Vampiric Vacation by Kiersten White

A gothic mystery for middle graders, for kids who like to keep things on the spooky side, the Sinister-Winterbottom twins will be their new heroines. The second book in the Sinister Summer series had siblings Theo and Alexander trying to solve the mystery of the Sanguine Spa. A clever, intelligent book that is equal parts intrigue and fun.

Ages: 8 to 12

Buy it now, $9

Maizy Chen’s Last Chance by Lisa Yee

Maizy Chen's Last Chance is one of the best new childrens books 2023

In this National Book Award finalist and Newbury Award-winning book, we meet Maizy Chen and her mom as they head to Last Chance, Minnesota (where she and her family are the only Asian Americans) to visit her sick grandfather. The plan is to stay for just a couple of weeks until he is better, but as the stay extends, Maizy learns more about her family and has plenty more questions for her mom. Though the hardcover came out late last year, April 4 marks the release date of the paperback.

Ages: 8 to 12

Get it here, $9

Lia Park and the Heavenly Heirlooms by Jenna Yoon

If you love books like Percy Jackson and the Olympians, add the Lia Park books to your cart ASAP. The second book in the series finds 12-year-old Lia and her friend Joon on a mission to keep magical heirlooms safe while thwarting sabotage from an enemy. (Pub date: May 30).

Ages: 8 to 12

Get it here, $13

The Museum of Lost and Found by Leila Sales

An abandoned museum makes the perfect backdrop for a middle-grade novel that tackles the anxiety of being separated from a best friend and how we grow up in the process. Young Vanessa’s bestie Bailey has left, and when Vanessa stumbles on an empty museum, she begins to fill it with objects, mementos, and her own memories. (Pub date: May 16).

Ages: 8 to 12

Get it here, $18

This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us, Edited by Katherine Locke and Nicole Melleby

Now in paperback, the first LGBTQIA+ anthology for middle graders includes stories for each letter of the acronym, from fantasy to sci-fi to realistic fiction; authors include Eric Bell, Justina Ireland, Shing Yin Khor, Nicole Melleby, Marieke Nijkamp, and so many more.

Ages: 8 to 12

Get it here, $9

Best New Graphic Novels of 2023

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea by Dav Pilkey

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea is one of the best new childrens books of 2023

Dogman fans will be thrilled to know that book #11 in the popular series came out to rave reviews in late March. In the latest installment, Piggy is back and he has—surprise—a diabolical plan up his sleeve in this new Dogman for 2023.

Ages: 7 and up

Buy it here, $9.50

A Work In Progress by Jarrett Lerner

A work in progress is one of the best childrens books 2023

A young boy struggles with his body image in this book written in a long poem form that appears in Will’s journal. Along with illustrations, this book is the raw and painful truth of body dysmorphia, fatphobia, and bullying, but also with a message of hope and self-appreciation. It’s a startlingly honest read, told in a way that kids can relate to. Whether they experience these feelings on the daily or they need to develop empathy, this book is the perfect read before entering middle school!

Ages: 8 to 12

Get it here, $12.50

Barb and the Battle for Bailiwick (Barb the Last Berzerker 3) by Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson

Barb the Berzerker is back in the third graphic novel in the series written by the dynamic Dan & Jason duo. This time we find Barb being held prisoner by Witch Head only to be rescued by Raven, Barb’s Berzerker mom. But Witch Head will stop at nothing to take down the mother-daughter duo. A hilarious read, get the other two books and read them before this one is released on August 22.

Ages: 8 to 12

Get it here, $14

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Prices and availability reflect the time of publication

Are You Having a Boy or a Girl? Try These Tests to Predict Baby’s Sex

by Sarah BlightSeptember 14, 2022

It’s no surprise you’ve been doing some serious daydreaming about who, exactly, is in there. Before you dive into full-on baby shower planning mode, have some fun trying these at-home baby prediction tests to find out how to tell the gender of your baby. Can a wacky at-home prediction test tell you if you are having a boy or a girl? Well, you’ll have to try these tests to find out. (Regardless of the outcome, these incredible gender-neutral nurseries should have you covered.)

A daughter touches her mother's pregnant belly as they discuss how to tell the gender of the baby — iStock

1. Carrying high? That's supposed to mean you'll have a girl, while a low rider means boy.

2. If your skin has that pregnancy glow, chances are you're having a boy, according to one old wives' tale. If you're breaking out, get ready for a girl.

3. Look at your breasts in the mirror. If your right breast is larger than your left, you're having a girl. If your left breast looks larger, it's a boy.

4. Consult a Chinese gender chart, which uses your age and the month you conceived to determine how to tell the gender of your baby.

5. Energetic fetuses are thought to be boys, while chill babes in utero are predicted to be girls.

6. Pee in a cup (you should be a pro at this by now after all those doctor's visits), and then mix in 1 tablespoon of Drano drain cleaner. If the color turns green, you'll have a girl. Blue means it's a boy. (Be careful with this one. Drano can be toxic, so wear gloves and a mask or have someone else do this experiment for you.)

A mom to be in a green dress embraces her pregnant belly as she wonders how to tell the gender of her baby — Camylla Battani via Unsplash

7. At your next prenatal checkup, check out baby's head on the ultrasound. If it's square-shaped, then you're having a boy. If you see a rounder head, it's a girl.

8. Tie a ring on the end of a piece of string. Sit down and have someone hold the string over your belly. If the ring swings in a circle, you're having a girl. If it swings back and forth, it's a boy.

9. That dark line that runs from your pubic bone straight up the center of your belly (known as the linea nigra) is said to indicate baby's sex. If the line stops at your belly button, you're having a girl. If the line continues up to your ribs and chest, it's a boy.

10. The faster baby's heart rate is, the more likely you're having a girl. The slower the heart rate (below 140 beats per minute), the more likely you're having a boy.

11. If the skin on your hands is dry and chapped during pregnancy, you're more likely to be carrying a boy. Smooth skin means it'll be a girl.

12. If you're craving salty foods, then you're pregnant with a boy. Are you jonesin' for something sweet? Then it's a girl you're carrying.

13. Since you have to pee all the time anyway, pee in a cup one more time. Then drop in some baking soda. If it fizzes, then it's a boy; if it doesn't, it's a girl.

14. Here's another pee test: Boil a head of red cabbage in some water. Save the red cabbage water and mix it in a cup with your urine. If the water turns pink, it means a girl is on its way. If the water is purple, you're having a boy.

15. Next time you wake up in the morning (or from one of those much-needed pregnancy naps), check which side of your body you're sleeping on. Left side indicates boy, while right means girl.

16. This one is similar to the Chinese chart above. The Mayans take the mama's age at conception and add it to the year baby was conceived. If it's an odd number, the baby is a boy. Even means it's a girl.

17. If your morning sickness lasts beyond the first trimester, some people think you're carrying a girl. If your sickness subsides or you didn't have any to begin with (lucky you!), then it's a boy.

18. If your baby bump looks like a basketball, it could be you're having a boy. If your baby bump is more spread out across your waistline, then it's a girl.

While planning for your new arrival, there’s no better time to download the Tinybeans app. The secure platform allows you to share special moments with friends and family near and far and puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their littles.

15 Vocabulary-Building Board Books

by Eva Ingvarson CeriseMarch 19, 2022

When my daughter was a baby, I’d watch her gnaw on books while we read them and wondered if she was getting anything out of our story time. But then she became a toddler, and it all clicked.

She started bringing me books to read. She’d make connections (“A as in alligator!”), talk about the characters like they were her friends and bust out words I was shocked she knew. And she’d say the word that brings both joy and terror to a parent during reading time: “Again!”

It’s never too late to make reading to your child part of your daily routine, and it’s always worth your time. Kids love quiet time cuddled up with you, and books introduce them to new words and worlds they might not be exposed to otherwise.

If your toddler doesn’t want to sit still, read as part of the bedtime routine. Let them turn the pages to keep them engaged in the story. Or read aloud as your child plays or runs around near you. They’re listening, and you may find them walking over to check out the action as you read. Ask questions: “What do you see? What do you think he does next?” That’s all it takes to make the magic happen.

These are my favorite board books for building a child’s imagination, language skills and listening ability.

Alphablock by Christopher Franceschelli

$14 BUY NOW

This book teaches the alphabet in a fun way, with thick-cut pages of each letter followed by a drawing of something that starts with that letter. When your child looks at each letter, like K, they'll see a hint of the picture on the next page (in this case, a kite's tail) to help them guess the letter and the picture.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.

$5 BUY NOW

The letters of the alphabet go on quite the adventure in this book that brings the ABCs to life. Rhyming text and a steady rhythm keep kids engaged with the story and help them remember the letters.

Alphabet Street by Jonathan Emmett

$18 BUY NOW

Explore the alphabet with rhyming text, sweet illustrations of animals and flaps to lift. Then fold out the book to reveal a street with lots of shops to explore for imaginative play. This book will keep your child occupied for hours.

A to Z by Sandra Boynton

$6 BUY NOW

Cute animal illustrations, alliterative text and silly situations ("Dinosaur dancing," "gophers grinning") help your child learn their letters (and lots of verbs!) in this board book. The simple text and illustrations make the alphabet memorable.

F Is for Fairytale by Greg Paprocki (Artist)

$10 BUY NOW

You can't go wrong with any of the Babylit alphabet primers, but we especially love this one, which references familiar fairy tales that older kids will love to guess. Greg Paprocki's retro drawings are a hit with adults and kids alike, and the books come in various themes, from favorite activities (Z Is for Zoo, C Is for Camping) to holidays (E Is for Easter, D Is for Dreidel, R Is for Ramadan).

How Are You Feeling? by Mudpuppy

$12 BUY NOW

Build emotional literacy with this lift-the-flap board book and turn a screeching threenager into one who can clearly explain why they're upset. It also builds empathy and understanding with open-ended questions like, "How can you help someone who feels worried?"

The Happy Little Yellow Box: A Pop-Up Book of Opposites by David A. Carter

$13 BUY NOW

A little yellow box with a big smile shows the difference between open and closed, near and far and other opposites in this pop-up book. A helicopter jumps off the page to convey high and low, and there are tabs to pull and surprises hidden inside the box.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. & Eric Carle

$5 BUY NOW

Repetitive text and simple illustrations teach colors and animal names in this classic story. Once your child is familiar with it, ask them to identify what they see on each page before you read it out loud.

That's Not My Monster by Fiona Watt

$13 BUY NOW

The series of "That's Not My" books uses touch-and-feel textures and colorful drawings to teach language awareness, particularly of adjectives. "That's not my monster. Its horns are too rough." Bonus: There's a mouse on each page for your child to find, keeping them engaged with the action.

Where Is Baby's Belly Button? by Karen Katz

$5 BUY NOW

Kids identify body parts and common household objects with this lift-the-flap book illustrated with children of various races. It's an interactive game of peekaboo as your child lifts flaps to find baby's mouth, eyes and hands.

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems

$13 BUY NOW

Put your child in the driver's seat in this tale of a persistent pigeon begging to drive a bus. Your child will love telling Pigeon "No!" while learning lots of words in the process. This one is funny enough you won't mind being asked to read it again and again.

Heads by Matthew Van Fleet

$17 BUY NOW

This one is for the animal lovers (that's basically all toddlers, right?). In this interactive tale, kids learn about animals' traits as they pull tabs to wiggle an elephant's ears and see inside a platypus egg. There are textures to feel and funny rhyming text to help your child identify beaks, bills and pointy horns.

Press Here by Herve Tullet

$8 BUY NOW

Kids learn best when they're engaged. In this book, they become part of the story. Your child is asked to touch and shake the book, making amazing things happen: The dots on the page multiply, grow bigger and change colors.

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

$5 BUY NOW

There's some kind of magic in the simple scenes and descriptive, repetitive text of Goodnight Moon. It not only lulls kids to sleep, it teaches them common words, colors and animal names. Bonus activity: At bedtime, ask your child to say goodnight to items in the nursery, teaching them familiar words in their world.

The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen

$5 BUY NOW

If your child is ready for more sophisticated words, it's time to meet the Pout-Pout Fish. In this funny story, a sad little fish gets a lesson on perspective and learns to turn his frown upside-down thanks to some smart friends.

12 of the Best Baby and Toddler Books about Feelings

All the Baby & Toddler Books You Need in Your Library

When my daughter was a baby, I’d watch her gnaw on books while we read them and wondered if she was getting anything out of our story time. But then she became a toddler, and it all clicked.

These are my favorite board books for building a child’s imagination, language skills and listening ability.

Alphablock by Christopher FranceschelliThis book teaches the alphabet in a fun way, with thick-cut pages of each letter followed by a drawing of something that starts with that letter. When your child looks at each letter, like K, they’ll see a hint of the picture on the next page (in this case, a kite’s tail) to help them guess the letter and the picture.

Cost: $14.95 on amazon.com

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.The letters of the alphabet go on quite the adventure in this book that brings the ABCs to life. Rhyming text and a steady rhythm keep kids engaged with the story and help them remember the letters.

Cost: $4.59 on amazon.com

Alphabet Street by Jonathan EmmettExplore the alphabet with rhyming text, sweet illustrations of animals and flaps to lift. Then fold out the book to reveal a street with lots of shops to explore for imaginative play. This book will keep your child occupied for hours.

Cost: $17.99 on amazon.com

A to Z by Sandra BoyntonCute animal illustrations, alliterative text and silly situations (“Dinosaur dancing,” “gophers grinning”) help your child learn their letters (and lots of verbs!) in this board book. The simple text and illustrations make the alphabet memorable.

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

F Is for Fairytale by Greg Paprocki (artist)You can’t go wrong with any of the Babylit alphabet primers, but we especially love this one, which references familiar fairy tales that older kids will love to guess. Greg Paprocki’s retro drawings are a hit with adults and kids alike, and the books come in various themes, from favorite activities (Z Is for Zoo, C Is for Camping) to holidays (E Is for Easter, D Is for Dreidel, R Is for Ramadan).

Cost: $9.99 on amazon.com

How Are You Feeling? by MudpuppyBuild emotional literacy with this lift-the-flap board book and turn a screeching threenager into one who can clearly explain why they’re upset. It also builds empathy and understanding with open-ended questions like, “How can you help someone who feels worried?”

Cost: $11.99 on amazon.com

The Happy Little Yellow Box: A Pop-Up Book of Opposites by David A. CarterA little yellow box with a big smile shows the difference between open and closed, near and far and other opposites in this pop-up book. A helicopter jumps off the page to convey high and low, and there are tabs to pull and surprises hidden inside the box.

Cost: $17.57 on amazon.com

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. & Eric CarleRepetitive text and simple illustrations teach colors and animal names in this classic story. Once your child is familiar with it, ask them to identify what they see on each page before you read it out loud.

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

That’s Not My Monster by Fiona WattThe series of “That’s Not My” books uses touch-and-feel textures and colorful drawings to teach language awareness, particularly of adjectives. “That’s not my monster. Its horns are too rough.” Bonus: There’s a mouse on each page for your child to find, keeping them engaged with the action.

Cost: $13.95 on amazon.com

Where Is Baby’s Belly Button? by Karen KatzKids identify body parts and common household objects with this lift-the-flap book illustrated with children of various races. It’s an interactive game of peekaboo as your child lifts flaps to find baby’s mouth, eyes and hands.

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo WillemsPut your child in the driver’s seat in this tale of a persistent pigeon begging to drive a bus. Your child will love telling Pigeon “No!” while learning lots of words in the process. This one is funny enough you won’t mind being asked to read it again and again.

Cost: $16.60 on amazon.com

Heads by Matthew Van FleetThis one is for the animal lovers (that’s basically all toddlers, right?). In this interactive tale, kids learn about animals’ traits as they pull tabs to wiggle an elephant’s ears and see inside a platypus egg. There are textures to feel and funny rhyming text to help your child identify beaks, bills and pointy horns.

Cost: $17.16 on amazon.com

Press Here by Herve TulletKids learn best when they’re engaged. In this book, they become part of the story. Your child is asked to touch and shake the book, making amazing things happen: The dots on the page multiply, grow bigger and change colors.

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise BrownThere’s some kind of magic in the simple scenes and descriptive, repetitive text of Goodnight Moon. It not only lulls kids to sleep, it teaches them common words, colors and animal names. Bonus activity: At bedtime, ask your child to say goodnight to items in the nursery, teaching them familiar words in their world.

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah DiesenIf your child is ready for more sophisticated words, it’s time to meet the Pout-Pout Fish. In this funny story, a sad little fish gets a lesson on perspective and learns to turn his frown upside-down thanks to some smart friends.

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

When my daughter was a baby, I’d watch her gnaw on books while we read them and wondered if she was getting anything out of our story time. But then she became a toddler, and it all clicked.

These are my favorite board books for building a child’s imagination, language skills and listening ability.

Cost: $14.95 on amazon.com

Cost: $4.59 on amazon.com

Cost: $17.99 on amazon.com

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

Cost: $9.99 on amazon.com

Cost: $11.99 on amazon.com

Cost: $17.57 on amazon.com

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

Cost: $13.95 on amazon.com

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

Cost: $16.60 on amazon.com

Cost: $17.16 on amazon.com

Cost: $5 on amazon.com

10 Ways to Foster Baby’s Interest in Music

by Whitney C. HarrisMarch 13, 2022

Music soothes and supports a baby’s social and emotional growth, and it offers cognitive benefits for baby as well. You can get as simple or complex as you like with a wide variety of toys and activities to help introduce your little one to everything from classical to country. Here are 10 ways to introduce your baby to the magic of music.

1. Sing to your baby.
It seems simple, but so many parents may forget or hesitate to do it: Sing to your baby! “Parents have long soothed babies with just the comfort of their voices,” says Raffi (pictured above), the “Baby Beluga” songwriter who recently released a new album, Dog on the Floor. “Babies are soothed by a parent’s familiar, loving voice, even with the simplest of lullaby melodies.” So brush up on classics like “Hush, Little Baby” and “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” You can even just hum your favorite T Swift tunes. Whatever is easiest to remember and most fun for you will work just fine for your wee one.

2. Encourage making noise.
As soon as your baby is able to comfortably grasp and manipulate objects, give them household items that make interesting noises. This could be a closed container filled with dry rice or beans, pots and a wooden spoon, a metal whisk and cupcake tin, some crinkly tissue paper, or anything else that produces sound. See what your baby does with the items first and show enthusiasm and interest in the results. You can make noise together and demonstrate new ways of tapping out a rhythm.

3. Introduce your favorite playlist.
Playing recorded music is another way to encourage a child’s love of songs. Put on a record or ask Alexa to fire up your favorite playlist. It doesn’t have to be “baby” or “kid” music; it can be anything you enjoy. Another option is listening to the family-focused albums of some musicians you may already be familiar with, like Lisa Loeb’s Lullaby Girl or Shawn Colvin’s The Starlighter.

4. Find your old instruments.
Dig out your trusty trombone or dust off an acoustic guitar and show your little one how you play an instrument. Even if you haven’t done it since your days in the school band, your child won’t care about any imperfect playing.

5. Offer a wooden musical toy.
Baby toys that double as instruments or basic noisemakers are always a hit with newbies. The Petit Collage Musical Menagerie Wooden Animal Instruments ($30, above) has three different percussive playthings to choose from: an elephant shaker, a lion with bells, and a giraffe guiro (a Latin American percussion instrument). Let your little one choose a favorite and Mom and Dad can play the others to make for your first family band.

6. Sign up for a music class.
Attending a music class is a great way to add a social aspect to the experience for baby. There are classes based on age and also some where the age can range widely so your wee one can learn from the bigger guys. And, chances are, you can attend a free trial class in between seasons to see how you like it. Then, each week, you and your child will have a chance to hear live or recorded music, play with egg shakers, tambourines, drums, and more, and sing and dance with other families and caregivers.

7. Try an activity toy.
Infants and young toddlers will flip for the Fisher-Price Kick & Play Piano Gym ($49.99). It takes advantage of baby’s near-constant movements by keeping a keyboard right where all the action is afoot. Whether your wee one wants to lay down and play, try tummy time, or has learned to sit up, they can press the musical notes on the keyboard to hear individual pitches or short songs.

8. Engage in interactive play.
Any bouncing babe with head control would love to listen to and look at this interactive HABA USA Musical Crocodile Glove Puppet ($15.99, above), which gives older siblings, parents and caregivers a fun way to inspire a love of music and play. The little reptile has a handheld accordion sewn onto one paw, which you can manipulate to squeeze and squeak against the other paw padded with Velcro.

9. Introduce a plush that plays tunes.
Vosego’s stuffed bears that play classical music is a great option for introducing new sounds and melodies to little ears. The Ludwig and Amadeus bears ($54.99, above) will play 40 minutes of Beethoven and Mozart’s best compositions at the press of a belly button. There’s even an autobiography to be found in each bear’s pocket for Mom or Dad to read to baby.

10. Tickle the silliest ivories.
If your child has already shown tons of interest in music and mastered simple instruments, they may want to check out the PlayMonster Mirari Pop! Pop! Piano ($25.95) for a wild ride of sound. Let them figure out how to press the keys and hear a sound, then delight as they see a star pop up and jump to another pipe. And with the flip of a switch, you can toggle between musical notes and silly, kid-friendly sound effects like giggles and boings.

—Whitney C. Harris

featured image: Vosego

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7 Funny YouTube Channels for Kids You Can Feel Good About

by Camesha GoshaNovember 12, 2021

There are two things we know kids love—a good laugh and YouTube. We did a bit of research (for ourselves as much as you!) in order to find channels that provide kid-friendly content with tons of chuckles, and we’re pretty sure we hit the jackpot. From a family big on an adventure to a cooking show with laughs mixed in, here are our suggestions for the best funny YouTube channels for kids.

Kids Fun TV
Recreate movies? Check! Solve mysteries? Check! Family competition? Check! This family is sure to make you laugh through all of their antics. This crew is known as the fun squad, and it’s easy to see why. They are big on an adventure with no shortage of funny skits and jokes!. On top of everything else, they sing, so be on the lookout for a music video here and there!

Kids React
Do you know the tv show “kids say the darnedest things?” That might be one of the best ways to describe this channel. This is a weekly show where kids ages 5-14 watch and give their honest, off-the-cuff reaction to viral videos, jokes and more. It's no secret that kids are known for having no filter, and the results here are hilarious!

Nerdy Nummies
Rosanna Pansino is the delightful star of the Nerdy Nummies channel, a cooking show where she makes delicious desserts. Many of her goodies are based on cartoon characters or toys, so it's no surprise that kids LOVE her! She makes baking masterpieces fun while making it seem totally doable at home. She’s funny, creative and bakes treats that are #goals! What’s not to love?

Eli’s Fun World
Nine-year-old Eli and his mom team up to share his Fun World, and they are always game for a good time. Follow along as Eli takes his first ride on a dirt bike, “moves out” of the house or the one where he transforms into Bruno Mars—vocals included. They also love a good challenge like the last one out of the hot tub gets $1000! Yes, $1000.

Cali’s Playhouse
Let the funny shenanigans begin! Seven-year-old Cali and her little sister are adorable, unpredictable and funny. They have all kinds of adventures and pranks, like the one when Cali showed her Dad her newly pierced belly button! They also don’t shy away from challenges; you have to see the one that every kid would like to try—Cali switching places with her mom for 24 hours!

HiHo Kids
This channel is full of amusing videos of kids meeting people with unique backgrounds, playing games and trying unusual foods. As you can imagine, kids unscripted equals funny! It’s great to see kids flex their curiosity and learn about differences in a lighthearted and funny way.

Ryan’s World
Ryan's World is a hugely popular and funny YouTube channel for small kids. It features Ryan Kaji with his parents and twin sisters. Their channel is full of skits, challenges and crafts. Ryan has become a huge star on and off YouTube, so your kids probably know exactly who he is. He even has his own line of toys and shoes!

—Camesha Gosha

Featured image: Ketut Subiyato via Pexels

Take a Trip Through the Body with “Wow in the World’s” New Book

by Karly WoodMarch 2, 2021

Your kiddos fave podcasters have been busy! Wow in the World’s Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz have just dropped a brand new book and it’s all about the human body.

Wow in the World: The How and Wow of the Human Body takes readers on a super illustrated journey through the body. With hilarious facts that cover everything from your toes to your tongues, kids and parents alike will forget they’re actually learning as they dig deep into this new read.

photo: HMH Books for Young Readers

Have you ever wondered “WHY in the world do I have a belly button? And WHAT in the world does it do?” These are just the sort of questions Thomas and Raz cover in their book that showcases just how “full of mystery, and wonder, and WOW” the human body is.

Wow in the World: The How and Wow of the Human Body features facts, jokes, photos, quizzes and Wow-To experiments. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to know more about the brain, belly button, barfing, scabs, sweat and poop––because let’s be honest, the body can be pretty gross.

Need a copy now? Wow in the World: The How and Wow of the Human Body is available for purchase on Amazon for $17.99.

––Karly Wood

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13 Touch & Feel Books for Babies & Toddlers

by Katie L. CarrollJanuary 24, 2021

Take these touch and feel books for a spin with your little one today

Touch-and-feel books are more fun than ever, with opportunities to explore textures, hear sounds and even chew. These interactive storybooks are fun to read together and will keep your child occupied long enough that you can slip away to get something done. Bring them to doctor’s appointments, restaurants and on long car trips.

Poke-a-Dot: Old MacDonald’s Farm

This sturdy board book has buttons you press to count the animals on each page. Count down from 10 cows to 1 rooster as you and your child sing about how Old MacDonald had a farm. Depending on how your child pokes each button, it will make different clicking and popping noises, adding an element of surprise along with the language, counting and fine-motor-skill development.

Available on amazon.com, $14.

Where Are You Polar Bear?

Part of DK's Eco Baby series, this book is made from responsibly sourced, completely recyclable cardboard and contains no plastic. The books take place in different landscapes and uses sweet illustrations to ask kids to help locate animals at risk of extinction.

Available at amazon.com, $6.

Zoom Space Adventure by Susan Hayes & Susanna Rumiz

Ava and her cat head into outer space to check out the International Space Station, ride in a moon buggy, find a Mars rover and more. A cool pop-up adds excitement and fun to the story as kids learn all about space.

Available at amazon.com, $13.

That's Not My Dragon... by Fiona Watt

From ears that are too tufty to a tail that is too prickly, each page offers a new dragon that’s not your baby’s—until the final spread. The dragon book is just one of the many titles in the That’s Not My series. Find a favorite for every personality, whether your little one prefers pandas, pirates or princesses.

Available at amazon.com, $12.

Where Is Baby's Belly Button? A Lift-the-Flap Book by Karen Katz

Lift the flap to find where baby’s belly button, hands, eyes, and more are hiding. The illustrations are bright and eye-catching, and the peekaboo-style pages build excitement as readers anticipate what is under the flap. It offers teachable moments for babies to learn about different body parts in a fun way.

Available at amazon.com, $5.

The Cheerios Play Book by Lee Wade

Who said you shouldn’t play with your food? Snack time becomes play time when you mix the iconic O-shaped cereal kids love with this interactive book. Let baby test out their pincer grasp by filling in the circular spaces with Cheerios to complete each picture.

Available at amazon.com, $6.

Peek-A Who? by Nina Laden

Peek through the die-cut pages to guess who is peering at you. The simple rhymes are a play on the classic baby game of peekaboo. The book is full of silly wordplay, like when the cow says, “Peek a Moo!” And the last “Peek a YOU!” page lets baby see themselves in a mirror.

Available at amazon.com, $7.

Fuzzy Fuzzy Fuzzy! by Sandra Boynton

Sandra Boynton brings her signature humor and playful animal characters to the touch-and-feel style of books. The cover invites children to “touch, skritch, and tickle,” while the interior has an array of different textures for kids to explore. The eggs at the end hold an amusing surprise!

Available at amazon.com, $15.

Tails by Matthew Van Fleet

Touch, pull and sniff your way through this interactive exploration of animals. Tails introduces baby to concepts like counting and opposites in a way that engages many senses. Be sure to check out Matthew Van Fleet’s other reads, such as Alphabet, Heads and Fuzzy Yellow Ducklings, for more sensory fun.

Available at amazon.com, $13.

Dear Zoo: A Lift-the-Flap Book by Rod Campbell

This classic lift-the-flap book is a longtime favorite that continues to delight young readers. The refrain invites you to reveal what animal the zoo has sent in an attempt to find the perfect pet. Add in your own animal sounds for even more fun!

Available at amazon.com, $5.

Good Morning, Good Night! by Teresa Imperato

Wish your little one a good night on every page of this sweet book. The soothing feel of each animal’s fur is perfect for a low-key sensory experience at bedtime. Practice tucking in the character on the last page before tucking in your own bundle of joy.

Available at amazon.com, $1.

Noisy Trucks (My First Touch and Feel Sound Book) by Tiger Tales

Give your mini-explorer a glimpse into the real world with the photographic visuals in the My First Touch and Feel Sound Book series. Truck sounds offer an auditory experience for babies and toddlers that goes beyond the typical touch-and-feel read. Discover trucks, farm animals, dinosaurs, and other noisy options with the different books in this series!

Available at amazon.com, $12.

Baby's Big Busy Book by Karen Katz

A day in the life of a baby is busy indeed! There is so much to touch, explore and see as you follow along with baby—from waking up to eating and playing throughout the day, and finally to bedtime. Build your baby’s vocabulary by reading all the little objects labeled throughout the colorful illustrations.

Available at amazon.com, $15.

Busy Baby: Friends by Sarah Gillingham
Turn that frown upside down! Little hands will be kept busy swiveling the face in the center of this book from sad to happy. Build up baby’s social and emotional skills as the characters navigate through the everyday happenings of sharing, making friends, and playing. Retro illustrations add to the distinct look of this book.

Available at amazon.com, $6.

—Katie L. Carroll

featured photo: iStock

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Top 3 Cringe-Worthy “Talks” with Your Kids

By Ruthi Davis

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

January 3, 2020

The bathroom was a bloodbath. It seriously looked like someone was murdered in there, nasty. My poor daughter walked into—not once, but twice—the horrid crime scene of an undisposed pad/sanitary napkin/towel on the floor of a public bathroom. The other time it was a used tampon, floating in the murky toilet waters. Just absolutely gut-wrenching to see my innocent munchkin’s face turned pale and frightened, as she muttered to me, “Mom, I think someone got really hurt.” So just like that, it all began.

Truthfully, this kind of blog would have likely been irrelevant in my pre-teen and teenage years because it doesn’t seem like it was discussed that openly at home. I never had a talk about menstruation, puberty, or sex with my mom—it was just embarrassing. I learned through a quick lesson at school about our changing bodies and then through my friends. Being a late bloomer myself, I was actually cheering when the “Flow Fairy” finally visited me. Finally, I felt like all of the other girls! Don’t even talk about bras. I think I was one of the last to sport a training bra and probably started wearing one way before I needed to. Forget the talk about sex. My mom may have nervously asked me about that once in college.

Let’s face it—we live in a much different world. Social media and reality television have dominated and shaped much of our youth’s culture now. If we don’t talk about it, someone else will.

I don’t think parents truly ready themselves for all of the cringe-worthy talks that we need to have. We ask each other if it comes up in conversation, brush off the idea, and kind of wing-it in the moment, mostly. I have always been staunch on my belief to be honest, but also age-appropriate with all of my answers to my kids about life. From the beginning, all talks should offer a semblance of honesty and easy-to-understand language. It’s all a big puzzle that you unveil, bit by bit, until the entire picture becomes clear in its own time.

Some, I admittedly figure out in the moment, while others I actually think about and speak to other moms for ideas. Thankfully, I live in a culturally diverse community, where global perspectives are so interesting and eye-opening for me.

So here goes—no matter how YOU choose to shape your answers, perhaps this Q & A scenario will help you prepare for when the time comes.

** Please note that this is just an early, basic introduction to some truly important topics, and all of the variables in parenthood should become unveiled with time. This may vary in discussion for parents in different life scenarios.

Baby Talk

After having four children about 2.5 years apart, my kids have seen my belly grow to ridiculous proportions, witness my slowing down, baby pop out, stay at the hospital, and constant breastfeeding for the first year. This cycle is as interesting as it is confusing for siblings.

Q-Where do babies come from?

A-Mom and dad have to make a decision together to have a child. When they agree, daddy gives mommy a special seed, and then mommy starts to grow a baby inside.

Q-How does the baby eat inside? Can it breathe?

A- Yes, on the inside of mommy’s tummy, there’s a long “straw” called an umbilical cord that connects from mommy’s belly button to the baby’s. This straw carries all of the oxygen to help baby breathe. Also, when mommy eats, all of the most important healthy parts of the food travel right into the baby’s tummy through this straw. Inside of mommy’s tummy is kind of like a balloon, called an amniotic sac. It’s filled with warm water and baby floats in it while growing. As baby grows, so does mommy’s tummy.

Q-How does a baby come out of your tummy?

A-Well, all females have 3 holes—a pee hole, a poo hole, and a baby hole right in the middle. You may not even know you have it because it’s so little. Well, when baby is all finished growing, mommy feels a strong knock on the inside of her tummy. Then mommy goes to the doctor to help baby come out. The doctor will help baby come out either through that middle hole, like a baby slide from mommy’s tummy and out, or through mommy’s baby door. The doctor has a special key to get baby out.

Q-What is baby doing to you (breastfeeding)?

A-Baby is drinking mommy’s milk. After mommy has a baby, her breasts become natural baby bottles. Baby is drinking special milk to get big and strong.

Periods, Aunt Flow and Menstruation

Whether a child is as young as 9-years old when she begins menstruating, or has a friend who does, this time can be as confusing as frightening for a child who is completely unaware of this process. In my case, it only took a sloppy stranger to leave the evidence behind in a public bathroom for my daughter to find, prompting this highly important talk.

Q-What is that stick that you’re holding (tampon)? What happened to that person in the bathroom? Is she hurt? What happened?

A-You know how a chicken lays an egg and a chick comes out? Well, moms have an egg too, but it stays on the inside. Remember how I explained to you how a baby is made when daddy gives mommy a special seed? And that the body has it’s own special way of healing and cleaning itself? Well, just like the egg of a chicken, not every egg has a chick inside. Some are empty. Every 30 days or so, a female’s body checks to see if her egg has that special seed. If it does, a baby starts to grow. If it doesn’t, the body cleans itself and prepares for a new one; and that’s what it looks like for a few days. It’s red and it doesn’t hurt. It’s just the body’s way of cleaning. During that time, we use a cotton pad (towel, sanitary napkin) or tampon (cotton stick) to keep ourselves clean.

The Big Talk: How Babies are Really Made

Television, magazines, social media, and even pop music are constantly promoting images and singing about “sex” and “sexy.” While children are young and naive, they repeat song lyrics and watch completely unaware. Yet there comes a time when curiosity and reasoning kick in, prompting many questions on this topic. Be prepared however YOU choose to enlighten your children.

Q-What’s the difference between sexy and sex? I hear those words a lot.

A-One is an adjective and the other a verb (ha!).

Q-What is sex? Tell me how babies are really made? How does dad give mom the seed?

A-Ok, so you know how I told you that every part of your body serves a special purpose? Like your eyelashes are there to keep dust out of your eyes. Nose hair keeps dirt and dust out of your nose. Breasts become baby bottles for babies. A belly button is how mommy gives baby nutrition through the umbilical cord. Well, if everything serves a special purpose, have you ever wondered why females and males have different private parts? Why do females have a vagina that go in and males have a penis that sticks out?

Well, women and men were made to fit like a puzzle. When a woman and a man decide to have a baby, they give each other a special cuddle, and the seed that holds all of the information about our family moves from the man to the woman. The seed then finds it’s way to mommy’s egg that holds all of her information. When both are combined, a baby that is the combination of both people starts to form.

So there you have it. I got through all of the most cringe-worthy conversations, seamlessly and painlessly, if you don’t count my original nervous cackling for a good 30 seconds before collecting myself again and answering that last question. Over time, you may need to fill in any gaps or add technical terms, but this is a preliminary example of how I managed to work through each of these important topics.

This may not be the way you choose to tell your children, and that’s wonderfully ok. But please make sure you do. No matter if you have a girl or boy, please do your best to keep the non-judgmental communication lines free and open with your children.

Let them feel comfortable in asking you everything from social situations, personal developments, curse words, drugs, sex, and anything else that life throws their way.

The best preparation is awareness and knowledge.

Find your own way and have a plan. Good luck!

With Love,

Ruthi

Photo: Ruthi Davis Photography

Ruthi Davis

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Ruthi Davis is a the Founder of Ruth Davis Consulting LLC with over two decades of success in advertising/marketing, media/publicity, business development, client relations, and organizational optimization for a variety of clients. Ruthi is a proud mom and influencer in the parenting and family market as founder of the Superfly Supermom brand.

Where Babies Come From, According to Kids

by Shahrzad WarkentinJanuary 22, 2017

At one point or another, every parent must face the dreaded question: where do babies come from? For some lucky parents, avoiding the question is a little easier because their kids are already baby experts. Check out these hilarious quotes from real moms whose kids dropped some knowledge bombs on where babies come from.

Alternative choices.
“My 6 year old was fascinated to learn all about how babies grow. She took a very scientific view of the process, asking questions and seeking clarification. No emotions would interfere with her quest for knowledge. Until she discovered how the babies come out. Her response to that realization? ‘I think I’ll adopt.’”
—Jessica H.

They come in a 5 pack.
“My son asked if we could get him a baby girl. I asked him where he thought we could pick up a baby and he said Costco!”
—Katie S.

Don’t be silly, that’s not what vaginas are for!
“My son asked if all babies got “cut out” of mommies tummies. I explained that no, some women have c-sections and some babies come out another way. He asked how. I told him they come out through the mommy’s vagina….there was a long pause and then he burst out into hysterical laughter, ‘mommy that’s ridiculous!’”
—Justine F.

The student becomes the teacher.
“When my oldest was 6, I was pregnant and so we told him, in a kid version, how babies were made and all about pregnancy. We used the correct terms. Well, at school one day a little girl said something about how babies grew in the tummy. My son corrected her and the class ended up having a lesson/discussion about pregnancy.”
—Heather W.

Give it a few years.
“My husband is a doctor so with all the anatomy books laying about they know EXACTLY where babies come from. Finally told my 9 yr old how babies are made and his response was “that is gross”.
—Nicole T.

What’s for lunch?
“When I was pregnant, my daughter wondered how a baby got into my belly so she asked me if I ate the baby.”
—Diane W.

Just google it.
“My daughter knows exactly where babies come from. She googled it on her brain pop jr. app. Although, she is still quite confused how ‘the sperm cell just JUMPED from Daddy to Mommy’s uh-ter-us (uterus) and noooobody saw it….’ (we tell her it was a very small cell and probably happened at night when it was dark).”
—Alison D.

K-I-S-S-I-N——Baby!
“My 6 year old thought you get married, kiss and then have a baby. We went to a friend’s wedding and awhile after she asked if they had a baby, I told her no and she said ‘but I saw them kiss!!!’”
—Sandra B.

Knock, knock. Who’s there? A baby!
“My older child knew babies were carried in a special place inside of a mommy, but hadn’t asked how they came out yet. One day, he asked me if he could look at my belly button. It was an odd request, but sure. It’s a belly button. He looked, thanked me, and made a kinda perplexed noise as he turned to walk off. Then I hear him mutter as he walked off, ‘…but there’s no door!’ It took me a second, then it hit me. He somehow had worked out in his head, without asking how babies came out, that women had a door in their bellies.”
—Jayme H.

Have your kids had the baby talk with you yet? Tell us what you learned in the comments.

10 Hilarious Parenting Tweets of the Week

by Red TricycleJuly 12, 2016

From the soccer carpool to the never-ending assortment of mismatched socks, sometimes there are days when you’ve only got a few seconds (or 140 characters) to get in a good giggle. Well, sit back and get ready to scroll because we’ve scoured the Twitterverse for moms and dads that rap about the highs and lows of parenting, and the results are hilarious.

1. Hey, how’d that get there?

https://twitter.com/willgoldstein/status/774225084525322240

2. Here ya go, and good luck!

Thanks for the Play-Doh you gave my kid for her birthday. I hope you're excited about the ferret I'm going to give your child for hers.

— Rich Cromwell (@rcromwell4) September 11, 2016

3. That’s what we really want.

My eight-month-old surprised me for my birthday by not waking up until 6:45. Best gift ever!

— Dad and Buried (@DadandBuried) September 9, 2016

4. Worst. School. Ever.

4yo: When do they teach me how to fly?
Me: you mean at school?
4yo: yeah, it's been 2 days.
Me: I think that's at Hogwarts.
4yo: not good.

— Emme Reynolds (@TheEmmeReynolds) September 9, 2016

5. Nooooo!

When your kids answer the phone & say, "Sure- Mom's right here!" pic.twitter.com/GRsrebxZpw

— Stephanie Ortiz (@Six_Pack_Mom) September 8, 2016

6. Creepy.

6-year-old: *takes a pic of the dog*

Me: Aw.

6: Now if he dies, we'll know what he looked like.

That dog better sleep with one eye open.

— James Breakwell, Exploding Unicorn (@XplodingUnicorn) September 10, 2016

7. Never get to #4. Ever.

https://twitter.com/2questionable/status/774237766557270017

8. What *else* could be in that?!

Cotton candy: the cocaine of three year olds pic.twitter.com/1fTOgFUq1V

— dadpression (@Dadpression) September 10, 2016

9. “Yes, I know self-defense.”

I successfully blocked my kids from stealing any of the snack I'm eating right in front of them.

*adds professional bodyguard to resume

— Twin Dad (@TwinSurvivalist) September 9, 2016

10. Why is this even an option?

https://twitter.com/roostermustache/status/773886955356577793

Do you have any #funnyparenting moments to share with the Red Tricycle Community?

This year brings us adventures near and far and a celebration of history and culture like never before

Board Books

Bee: A Peek-Through Board Book by Britta Teckentrup

Hello, World! Let’s Go Camping by Jill McDonald

Belly Button Book by Sandra Boynton

How Do You Take a Bath? by Kate McMullan, illustrated by Sydney Hanson

The Sleepy Bunny: A Springtime Story About Being Yourself from DK Books, illustrated by Clare Wilson

Kind Crocodile by Leo Timmers

Best Children’s Books of 2023: Picture Books

There's a Yeti in My Tummy

Mother of Sharks by Melissa Cristina Márquez, Illustrated by Devin Elle Kurtz

My Dad Is a Tree by John Agee

Can We Please Give the Police Department to the Grandmothers? By Junauda Petrus, illustrated by Kristen Uroda

The ABCs of Asian American History by Renee Macalino Rutledge, illustrated by Lauren Akazawa Mendez

The Knowing by Ani DiFranco, illustrated by Julia Mathew

The Glow Show by Suzi Schafer

Peaceful Me by Sandra V. Feder, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell

The Umbrella by Beth Ferry and Tom Lichtenheld

The Night Before Freedom by Glenda Armand, illustrated by Corey Barksdale

Remember by Joy Harjo, illustrated by Michaela Goade

Early Chapter Books

The Creative Writing Playbook For Kids ONLY! by Megan Wagner Lloyd, illustrated by Madeline Garcia

Mission: Arctic by Katharina Weiss-Tuider, illustrated by Christian Schneider

Weird But True Know-It-All: Middle Ages by Michael Burgan

She Persisted: Florence Nightingale by Shelli R. Johannes and Chelsea Clinton

Middle-Grade Books

Vampiric Vacation by Kiersten White

Maizy Chen’s Last Chance by Lisa Yee

Lia Park and the Heavenly Heirlooms by Jenna Yoon

The Museum of Lost and Found by Leila Sales

This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us, Edited by Katherine Locke and Nicole Melleby

Best New Graphic Novels of 2023

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea by Dav Pilkey

A Work In Progress by Jarrett Lerner

Barb and the Battle for Bailiwick (Barb the Last Berzerker 3) by Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson

Related reads

Related reads

Alphablock by Christopher Franceschelli

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.

Alphabet Street by Jonathan Emmett

A to Z by Sandra Boynton

F Is for Fairytale by Greg Paprocki (Artist)

How Are You Feeling? by Mudpuppy

The Happy Little Yellow Box: A Pop-Up Book of Opposites by David A. Carter

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. & Eric Carle

That's Not My Monster by Fiona Watt

Where Is Baby's Belly Button? by Karen Katz

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems

Heads by Matthew Van Fleet

Press Here by Herve Tullet

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen

Related reads

Related reads

Related reads

Related reads

Take these touch and feel books for a spin with your little one today

Poke-a-Dot: Old MacDonald’s Farm

Where Are You Polar Bear?

Zoom Space Adventure by Susan Hayes & Susanna Rumiz

That's Not My Dragon... by Fiona Watt

Where Is Baby's Belly Button? A Lift-the-Flap Book by Karen Katz

The Cheerios Play Book by Lee Wade

Peek-A Who? by Nina Laden

Fuzzy Fuzzy Fuzzy! by Sandra Boynton

Tails by Matthew Van Fleet

Dear Zoo: A Lift-the-Flap Book by Rod Campbell

Good Morning, Good Night! by Teresa Imperato

Noisy Trucks (My First Touch and Feel Sound Book) by Tiger Tales

Baby's Big Busy Book by Karen Katz

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