Midsummer Books Gift Guide for Ages 0–3: Board Books & Baby Gifts for Littles

Building a child’s first library is one of the sweetest parts of early parenthood. Babies and toddlers don’t need complicated toys, they need stories to hold, textures to explore, and books sturdy enough for tiny, curious hands. At Midsummer Books in Fishtown, we’ve curated some of the best board books and baby gifts for ages 0–3, including great reads, sensory favorites, and meaningful first-year keepsakes.

If you’re shopping for a baby shower, a first holiday, or a toddler who already loves storytime, these baby-safe books and gifts are parent-approved, budget-friendly, and built to last.

Best board books for babies

Parent-approved books that offer the best of both worlds: engaging reads and delightful illustrations.

• Goodnight Moon: This classic by Margaret Wise Brown stands the test of time. It's steady pacing, sweet nothingness makes it a joy to read and the bright contrasting colors are great even for the littlest ones.

• Moo, Baa, La la la: Ok I am a sucker for Sandra Boynton so we always have a ton in stock, but this one is a special favorite. It's funny and engaging and such a joy for silly time with toddlers

• Jo Witek books: Always beautifully illustrated by Christine Roussey, and emotionally engaging, Witek's books gently walk you through some big emotions in a real, relatable way. These board books almost always have tunnel text features or well-crafted lift flaps that actually stand the test of time. They will tug at your heart and make you smile in equal measure.

  

  
  

• I love you like no otter: If you know a parent who loves a good pun, this is a great pick! Its such a fun, funny baby book, the perfect gift for baby showers, new parents, or any occasion

Gently-loved board books make great baby gifts

At Midsummer Books, we keep a large collection of hand-selected used board books. They’re loved once, then passed on, which means:

• They’re eco-friendly and reduce waste

• They’re budget-friendly, letting families build bigger libraries

• They’re authentic favorites 

• Babies can explore freely without fear of “ruining” a pristine book

These make especially meaningful gifts when bundled together.

More sensory gift ideas for babies and toddlers

While books are the heart of early literacy, pairing them with sensory items makes a gift feel complete. These parent-favorite extras are lightweight, safe, and mix perfectly with board books:

• Crinkle books & fabric books

• Soft plush toys (we have parent-approved brands in the shop!)

• Textured balls or stackers

• First puzzles

• Bath-friendly waterproof books

Board book baby gift bundle: “Baby’s First Winter Stories”

Create an easy, affordable, gift for the sweet littles in your life. It's cozy, practical, and helps build a budding reader's first library. Plus, this is one of the best baby gifts for families who want meaningful, screen or flashing-lights-free play.

Sample bundle idea:

• Bedtime board book (bed time is always a perfect time for reading- think Sandra Boynton's Going to Bed Book)

• Winter-themed board book (so many snowy day/holiday books to choose from!) One we especially like is Baby Loves Winter - a cozy ready for babies first snow

• A soft and cozy plush or pick up a cute gently used outfit from our collective partners Gus&Ruby who always have an amazing selection of 0-3 in stock (many still new with tags!)

We can also help you build a thoughtful bundle and wrap it up with a sweet seasonal ornament or keepsake.

Shop local, shop thoughtful

Midsummer Books is proud to offer a mix of new and gently-loved children’s books, early literacy favorites, and curated baby gifts that support imagination from day one. Whether you’re buying for your own family or looking for a first-holiday gift for a niece, nephew, or friend’s new baby, we’re here to help you pick the perfect match.

Email or DM us for recommendations, or just stop by and the shop and say hi!