The Best Bedtime Books for Toddlers

As a school library media specialist and the mother of a toddler boy, I love discovering the best books for each and every occasion. A specific routine at bedtime has been shown to make the transition to falling asleep much easier on both toddlers and parents. There are many great books available to read to your toddler before bed. Here are this librarian and mom's picks for the best bedtime books for toddlers.

Goodnight Moon. This classic written by Margaret Wise Brown is the quintessential toddler bedtime book. Goodnight Moon is a rhyming bedtime story that takes the reader through all sorts of "goodnights." Once all of the items in the room are told goodnight, then book ends. Pleasing rhymes, cute pictures, and a positively bedtime tone all make this bedtime book an absolute must for any toddler bedtime book collection. Look for Goodnight Moon in a variety of formats, but expect this book to be used frequently, so a sturdy board book is likely your best bet.

Clifford's Bedtime. Featuring one of the most popular toddler characters around, this bedtime book for toddlers by Norman Bridwell is adorable. Clifford's Bedtime features Clifford, the Small Red Puppy (a precursor to Clifford the Big Red Dog) getting ready for bed. Clifford needs many items before he is ready for bed including a teddy bear and blanket. Clifford is pictured falling asleep in his own bed which can be helpful for toddlers to see. Do be forewarned that this bedtime book for toddlers shows Clifford asking for a drink of water before bed so it could start a habit with your little one too. Overall though this cute board book is a great toddler bedtime book.