Night-time books to share with 0–2 year olds

Snuggle up with little ones for this gentle bedtime story. Say goodnight to bears, mice, ducks and fireflies and lift the flaps to see each creature tucked up for bed. Its soothing rhyme and muted colours are perfect for the end of a busy day.

Say goodnight to the stars, the kittens and even the mittens in this nostalgic bedtime story. The illustrations may not be as striking as those in contemporary bedtime stories, but the calming, lulled rhythm and rhyme make this a wonderful one to share as little ones eyes begin to close. You can even add your own words to the story - what can you see in your baby's room to say goodnight to?

This collection of rhymes is ideal for dipping into at bedtime or moments of calm. Babies will respond positively to the rhythmic patterns in each rhyme, and favourites like Twinkle, Twinkle and Hush-a Bye, Baby can also be sung to little ones. Once they’re old enough to see the pictures, babies will also enjoy the stunning foil illustrations that are peppered throughout.

The sun is turning from gold to red. Who is that wandering home to bed? A very hungry caterpillar makes their way home to bed, passing owls, crickets, and ducks along the way. Little ones can lift the flaps to find out who else is getting ready for bed in this beautiful rhyming board book.

If you’re looking for a rhyming picture book to settle little ones at the end of the day, they don't come much better than this. The dreamlike illustrations complement the simple text and the rhythm and repetition all come together to create a delightful story to read aloud to children of all ages. Cuddle up and enjoy this night-time classic.

Little Bunny has had a very busy day - but now it's time to settle down for a splash in the bath, a snuggle with a story and bed. This high-contrast black and white book is great for supporting babies' early vision, and the use of shiny foil brings a real magic to the pages. Introduce your baby to a bedtime routine with the help of this adorable first book for babies.

Bring every day to a happy close with this heart-warming board book. Little owl wakes with a happy song and finishes the day with a big 'I Love You' from big owl - who could ask for more than this? This tender exploration of parental love is spot on for bedtime, with it's stunning night-time scenes, gentle rhyme and twinkling use of foil throughout.

Maisy has had a lovely time playing with her friends in the sunshine. But when sunset arrives, it's time for her and Panda to settle down for the night. They share a story, a song and lots of cuddles - the perfect ending to any day! This simple story is bursting with colour, and is guaranteed to send any little one off to sleep with sweet dreams.

When the night draws in, big bear and little bear count all the different things in the forest as they make their way to bed. This is such a gentle, soothing book with a simple flowing text - perfect for cosying up and sharing together at bedtime.

The moon is up and the stars are twinkling but not everyone is going to bed! And it's not only foxes and bats that are coming out to play - bakers, train workers and market stall holders are also busying about, getting ready for the new day. This interactive, non-fiction title book sheds a light on all sorts of night-time activity, and is great to share with little ones who are not quite ready to call time on the day.

This dreamlike book is perfect for lulling babies into a peaceful sleep. Filled with warm, poetic text and calming illustrations that softly twinkle, Baby, Sleepy Baby will wrap your little ones up in a blanket and send them gently to the land of nod.