How important are baby books for boys? We all know that reading books out loud helps to keep little ones occupied for a while, but is it really worth doing every day? Does it have any effect on their development? And wouldn't toddler boys rather be playing or knocking things over than sitting quietly with you and a book?

The truth is that as a parent, you cannot underestimate the enormous importance of reading to your baby boy. Research has repeatedly shown that generally, girls outperform boys in the areas of both reading and writing. As a parent, you are your baby boy's first teacher, and you can give him a huge advantage in life by demonstrating an interest in reading from the day he is born. It is your role to try to be the kind of role model he needs to develop a life-long love of books and reading.

Reading books for baby boys is all about showing, as early as possible, that reading can be fun and interactive. It can stimulate the imagination, it can introduce your baby boy to new things and eye-opening experiences - everything from animals and amazing places to new colours, textures and shapes. It can change your baby boy's restless mood, settle him down for a sleep, and provide precious bonding opportunities for you and other family members to connect with your baby boy or toddler as he snuggles up with you and his favourite books.

It is particularly interesting to note that research has shown that surrounding a child with books from birth makes as much difference to their development as having uneducated parents versus educated parents. Just being exposed to the written word on a daily basis is enough to help your baby boy to develop literacy skills that will be of great benefit to him for the rest of his life. Reading to your baby boy for just 10 minutes every day is likely to have a truly significant impact on his future success at school, and in life.

There are so many wonderful baby books for boys available today - for very little money you can choose the very best children's books and conveniently purchase them online. Your local library is another fantastic source of new and old titles - but be aware, when your child really loves a book you may have a hard time taking it back to the library! Also remember to choose books that are appropriate for your baby boy's age and stage of development, to give him the very best start for a lifetime of literacy.