We look for engagement and durability. For younger children, we prioritise board books with interactive elements like flaps, textures, or sliders. These features are not just gimmicks; they maintain joint attention and help active children engage with the story physically as well as auditorily.

Content-wise, we look for clear narratives and rich illustrations. We avoid books that are too busy or chaotic, as they can overwhelm a child's visual processing. We also seek out stories that reflect diverse experiences and handle emotional topics with nuance.

We specifically curate books that support rhyme and repetition. These are critical for phonological awareness—the ability to hear sounds within words—which is the very first step in learning to read.