We get lots of requests at Babyology for books for newborns. I recommend reading anything to your newborn (whether it be a children’s book or the newspaper!) – it’s about establishing an early love of reading, the tone of your voice and quiet time spent together. That said, there are certain books that have loads of visual appeal for babies and that hold their attention a little longer than if you were reading the stockmarket report from the newspaper!
Two years ago we featured Australian designer Katey Love’s first book, Mesmerised. Mesmerised is now available in a flashcard format. The cards are printed on thick board with rounded corners and make beautiful, affordable wall art for the nursery. They are also great for baby’s playtime and as something to focus on during tummy time.
There’s good reason why Love’s books and flashcards (and many toys designed for newborns) are black and white. At birth a baby’s eyesight is quite blurred. High contrast, black and white images with sharp outlines are much easier for baby to see, as opposed to pastel-coloured, soft-edged illustrations.
Mesmerised Flashcards are recommended for babies aged newborn to six months. They are available through Love’s website, the aptly named Books for Newborns, for $9.95 per set of eight cards.
3 Comments
This was the first book we bought for our little girl Amelia when she was born and she really was mesmerised. I have photos of her at around 6 weeks old staring happily at the pictures. Her favourite was the swirl/snail and the cat.
YES, YES, YES, it’s the best book you can ever purchase for your little person, you will be astounded by the re-action. Katey Love has nail it.. thanks Katey.
I’ll run and buy this for our next baby. We have a mobile with black and white images and it has been a big hit with baby #1. Definitely something they can have fun with when they are very small.