As a parent, grandparent, family or friend, one of the best things you can do for a child is to read to them - and it's never too early to start. Here's a guide to picking the perfect children's book, so you can show them the enjoyment that comes from taking time out to read.

My first book
Babies love to hear the sound of your voice so a book of nursery rhymes is a great way to introduce the joys of story telling to them. Colourful pictures are a great way to stimulate your child's imagination and create associations between the stories and the world around them. Remember part of this exploring phase may involve babies trying to put books in their mouths so soft covers are both practical and longer lasting!
Books to try:

• My Ten Fingers by Annie Kubler
• Each Peach Pear Plum by Janet & Allan Ahlberg

Preschool books
As they move into the toddler years, children begin to comprehend more and respond to big and bright picture books. Every child loves story time at preschool and this is often the opener to slightly longer stories and provides interactive opportunities for children to participate in the reading process. Story time at your local library also provides a great place to explore educational and fiction books with your child.
Books to try:

• My Wobbly Tooth Must Not Ever Never Fall Out by Lauren Child
• If the World Were a Village by David J Smith

School children
At this age children's reading abilities will vary widely. It is important to continue to read aloud to them as well as giving them more challenging stories which they can tackle independently. Remember that for beginner readers, reading is hard work and they can easily get discouraged so make the emphasis on fun!
Books to try:

• Where's the Big Dipper? by Sidney Rosen
• Tasty read: The Usborne Little Book of Things to Make and Do in the Holidays