Baby books: *Birth ­ 6 months*

April 2000

THIS MONTH'S FAVE RAVE:
Padded cot panel and book, by Lamaze

In the first few months, really bold images that babies will want to try and focus on, are the best thing to go for. With its contrasting black-and-white geometric patterns on one side and bold, colourful shapes and smiling faces on the other, this washable cot panel and book will be perfect for newborns. It is safe for the tiniest of babies, and can be secured around the inside of the cot like a soft cot bumper. When you want to share it together, fold the panel up into a book, then tie the sturdy strings to keep the cloth pages in place. Your baby should soon start to enjoy looking in the sturdy mirror that is inset into one of the pages.

Mum of a newborn comments: "When I need a bit of a sit-down, this keeps my daughter stimulated. She really puzzles at the geometric patterns, trying to work them out."

Made in the USA, £7.99. Currently only available through Blooming Marvellous, tel: 0181 391 0338.

THIS MONTH'S HONOURABLE MENTION:
Peekaboo! by Jan Ormerod

Here's a book for children at the top end of the age band. The six different images of six different babies, representing a broad cultural sweep, are printed on heavy-duty card pages that can be wiped clean. Underneath the big, easy-to-pull-down flaps you will find a different answer to the repeated question: "Where's the baby?" This book should give you some good ideas for interactive playtime with your baby.

Published by Bodley Head, £3.99.

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