How to Choose a Board Book for Baby: Key Features
By Mary Meyer Stuffed Toys & Baby Gifts | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Buying Guides
Learn what to look for in a baby board book: durability, safety, illustrations, and coordination with plush toys. Our guide helps you pick the perfect first book.
Quick answer
Focus on sturdy, safe pages, engaging artwork, and a size that small hands can hold. A board book that coordinates with a plush toy adds extra play value.
Why board book construction matters
Board books are built with thick, cardboard-like pages that resist tearing and drool. This durability is essential for babies who explore with their mouths and hands. Look for rounded corners and a glossy coating that wipes clean easily.
The role of illustrations and coordination
Babies respond best to high-contrast, colorful images. Mary Meyer’s board books feature vibrant artwork from award-winning toy designers. Some board books are designed to match a specific plush toy, turning story time into a hands-on experience where baby can hold both the book and the character.
Size and portability
An 8×8-inch board book is a common size that fits in a diaper bag and is easy for little fingers to grip. Smaller books may be harder to hold; larger ones can be unwieldy. Choose a size that matches your baby’s age and coordination level.
Decision rules for choosing a board book
- Age recommendation: Most board books are suitable from birth, but check the publisher’s age range. Books with simple, high-contrast illustrations work best for newborns; slightly more detailed images engage older babies.
- Safety and durability: Ensure the book has rounded corners and is free of small parts that could detach. Thick, laminated pages resist chewing and are easy to wipe clean. Avoid books with staples or sharp edges.
- Interaction and coordination: If you want to extend play, choose a board book that coordinates with a plush toy. This lets baby hold the character while you read, building a bridge between the story and a tangible object. Pairing a board book with a matching plush toy can turn story time into a multi-sensory experience.
Product spotlight
- “Goodnight Unicorn” Board Book – 8″: The “Goodnight Unicorn” Board Book is an 8×8-inch book with 20 pages of full-color artwork created by Mary Meyer’s award-winning toy designers. Its size is ideal for small hands, and the coordinated unicorn plush (sold separately) lets you pair reading with a soft toy for interactive play.
“Goodnight Unicorn” Board Book – 8″
Who should choose which option
Best for
- Parents looking for a durable first book that withstands mouthing and drool
- Families who want to coordinate a board book with a plush toy for interactive reading
Not ideal for
- Older toddlers who need longer stories or more complex plots—consider a picture book instead
