About This Book
Parents can reach for this book when preparing a young child for a new sibling or simply to reinforce a sense of security and unconditional love. Love-A-By follows a little girl through her day, from morning snuggles to playing at the park, using a gentle, rhyming refrain to show how love is a constant, surrounding presence. This cozy, lyrical story is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, offering a tender message of comfort and connection. Its song-like quality makes it a wonderful, calming addition to a nighttime routine, perfect for reassuring little ones that they are cherished.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book gently handles the arrival of a new sibling. The approach is entirely positive and affirming, framing the new baby as an expansion of the family’s love rather than a source of conflict or jealousy. The resolution is hopeful and secure. The tone is secular.
Ideal Reader
A 2 to 4-year-old who is about to become an older sibling and needs reassurance that their parents' love for them is constant. It is also an excellent fit for any young child who benefits from a calming, predictable, and loving story as part of their bedtime routine.
Parent Prep
No preparation is needed. This book can be read cold. The introduction of the new baby is gentle and positive. A parent can simply read and enjoy the moment with their child. A parent has recently announced they are expecting a new baby and their toddler is asking questions or showing subtle signs of anxiety. Or, a parent is simply searching for a sweet, gentle bedtime book that reinforces the theme of unconditional love and family security.
Age Experience
A child aged 0-2 will primarily respond to the rhythmic, rhyming text and the soft, warm illustrations. A preschooler aged 3-5 will follow the simple narrative of the girl's day, understand the abstract concept of love being present in actions, and grasp the gentle story arc of a new baby joining the family.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many books that state “I love you,” this book’s unique “Love-a-by” lullaby-like structure portrays love as an ambient, constant presence in everyday moments. It’s less a story about a specific event and more an immersive experience of feeling safe and cherished. This atmospheric quality makes it stand out as a deeply comforting and reassuring read.
Read plot summary
This lyrical book follows a young girl and her parents through a simple, happy day. Each scene, from waking up and eating breakfast to playing with blocks, visiting the park, and baking, is framed by the repeating refrain, “Love-a-by, love-a-by, everywhere.” The narrative arc gently introduces the mother’s pregnancy and culminates in the arrival of a new baby brother, showing how the family’s love expands to include him in their cozy bedtime routine.
Discussion Prompts
1
The refrain says “Love-a-by, everywhere.” Where are some of the places we saw love in the little girl's day?
2
When the family bakes together, they are sharing and making something sweet. What is a special activity our family does together that makes you feel loved?
3
At the end of the book, there is a new baby brother. How do you think the big sister can show the new baby that he is loved?
4
The little girl shares her blocks with her daddy. What are some of your favorite ways to share with people you love?
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