Is it too early to read to my newborn?
No. The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages sharing books with babies from the start. A newborn will not follow a story, but they hear your voice and the rhythm of the words, and reading together becomes a habit you both enjoy. Short is fine, any book counts, and your library will lend you plenty.
Checked October 29, 2026.
Asked by families like yours and answered by Peabody editors. How we write and check. For your own child, your pediatrician knows best.
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Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org: How to Share Books with Your Baby (updated 29 Sep 2024) (checked October 29, 2026)
- Reach Out and Read: What we do (checked October 29, 2026)