This month, we’re celebrating the joy of food—through taste, play and story. From first foods to fruit feasts, baking to picnics, these books help children explore the world of food in playful, age-appropriate ways. We've picked five favourites for each age group—babies, toddlers and preschoolers—to support early language, curiosity and connection at mealtimes and beyond.
📘 For Babies (0–18 months)
These books are sturdy, sensory and simple, perfect for introducing food through rhythm, texture and familiar routines.
"Baby's First Foods" by DK
– A board book with clear photos of common first foods and simple words. Great for pointing and naming."Maisy’s First 1 2 3" by Lucy Cousins
– Includes fruit and food-themed counting with Maisy's signature bold illustrations."Tasty!" by Campbell Books (First Baby Days series)
– Touch-and-feel textures, mirror and sensory prompts all themed around mealtime."My First I See You: A Mirror Book" by Eric Carle
– Features food and faces, helping babies make connections during feeding times."Yum Yum!" by Pat-a-Cake Books
– A short, rhythmic board book using repetition and food-themed play words.
📗 For Toddlers (18 months–3 years)
These books support early language, independence, and familiar daily routines around eating and food prep.
"What's in My Lunchbox?" by Ruth Owen
– Simple photos and clear text about real lunchbox foods from different cultures."Lunchtime" by Rebecca Cobb
– A charming story of a little girl and three animals sharing a funny lunch experience."I Can Eat a Rainbow" by Olena Rose
– Bright illustrations introduce healthy eating with a focus on colours."Spot Bakes a Cake" by Eric Hill
– Spot plans a surprise for Dad’s birthday with baking fun—great for talking about simple steps."Don’t Dip Your Chips in Your Drink, Kate!" by Caryl Hart & Leigh Hodgkinson
– A funny rhyming book exploring food habits and manners in a light-hearted way.
📙 For Preschoolers (3–5 years)
These stories explore culture, kindness, independence, and curiosity through food, cooking and sharing.
"Oliver’s Vegetables" by Vivian French
– A preschool classic about trying new foods and learning where vegetables come from."Handa’s Surprise" by Eileen Browne
– A beautifully illustrated story that introduces fruit, friendship and culture."The Little Red Hen Makes a Pizza" by Philemon Sturges
– A fun twist on the traditional tale with strong links to food prep and teamwork."Mr Wolf’s Pancakes" by Jan Fearnley
– A playful tale involving recipes, shopping lists and a clever storyline."The Shopping Basket" by John Burningham
– A simple but witty story about a boy’s food errand, great for retelling and memory-building.