Your child's first ABC book will probably be a board book. These are great for babies old enough to hold something. Even if they aren't strong enough to sit up alone. They can play with the board book. Even just this introduces them to the concept of a book.

Board books are great because the first thing babies like to do with anything is put it in their mouth. Often babies get books just when they start to teethe and you can't fight that instinct.

That said a first ABC book should have bright colors to entertain your child. The letters should be big and bold. Showing both capital and small letters introduces your child to the concept that the letters will look different some times.

There should also be entertaining pictures depicting the sound of the letter. But be careful you don't want the graphic to be too busy. It will just confuse the baby. And the pictures should be of things that your child will see every day. At this stage you need to be able to show a picture of a cat and a cat. Babies and young toddlers do need to learn what a picture of something is.

FIrst ABC books with textures and ribbons to pull is a good idea as well. Young attention spans need to be constantly challenged. And don't forget your baby is just learning what those fingers are for. So having a ribbon to pull is great practice. The different textures let you show the difference between rough and smooth, and things like that.

And First ABC books and board books aren't just square anymore. You'll find all sorts of fun shapes.

But the best part of a First ABC book is the time that you and your baby spend looking at it. It is a great tool for you to use to show your baby the things that you want to show him or her. Not only can you explain letters, ABCs, but you'll talk about colors, animals, textures, shapes and so much more. It's the beginning of a wonderful time of exploration for both of you.

All of the FIrst ABC books shown here meet the criteria for being a great first board book. Choose any of them and you'll be off to a great start. And it's always fabulous to have a variety of board books. It will reinforce the baby's and toddler's knowledge in many different and fun-filled ways.