If your baby lights up when you bring out That One Book—the one you’ve read so many times you’re reciting it in your sleep—you might be wondering: Can babies have a favourite book? Spoiler alert: Yes, they absolutely can. And it’s a bigger deal than you think.
📚 Can Babies Have a Favourite Book? Yes—And Here’s Why It Matters
By around 6 months, babies are already starting to recognise patterns, sounds, and even routines. That means when you pull out the book with the flappy duck, or the one that goes “boop!” on every page, they remember. Repetition gives them a sense of comfort, control, and familiarity—which is gold dust in the whirlwind of their growing world.
At Adventure Babies, we see it all the time: babies who beam when they hear the first line of a beloved story, who lean forward during a familiar sensory moment, or who reach out to grab that crunchy leaf page before it even turns.
🧠 Why Repetition Rules in Early Brain Development
Favourites aren’t just cute—they’re powerful tools for early learning. Every time your baby hears the same book:
-
Their brain strengthens the neural pathways connected to language, memory, and emotional connection.
-
They build anticipation and start to predict what’s coming next (a pre-reading skill!).
-
Their sense of security grows as they know what to expect, helping them feel safe and engaged.
So if you’re wondering whether to try a new book or go back to the dog-eared favourite… go with what they love. That “again, again!” instinct is a sign their brain is working overtime in the best way. It’s also a natural answer to the question so many parents ask: can babies have a favourite book? They can—and it’s brilliant for their development.
🐛 Sensory Storytelling Makes It Stick
We go one better in our classes: we bring your baby’s favourite books to life. Whether it’s squelching through mud in We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, or peeking through holes in The Very Hungry Caterpillar, sensory storytelling adds texture, sound, and movement to each page. This helps babies experience stories with their whole body—not just their ears.
And guess what? This multisensory magic makes those favourites even more powerful.
💬 What You Can Do at Home
-
Follow their lead. If they love one story, keep reading it. You’re building their confidence as a little learner.
-
Layer in sensory fun. Can you add a texture, a noise, or a prop? A spoon can become a rocket, a scarf becomes snow.
-
Celebrate the repetition. Even if you’re a bit bored—your baby isn’t. Their brain is lighting up with every reread.
