Toddler Book Basket: God Made Everything
When you spend time with toddlers and babies, you don’t have to look far to see their natural wonder. A bird chirping outside the window, a puppy running across the yard, a butterfly fluttering near a flower — every new sight is a discovery. These early years are the perfect time to introduce children to the truth that God made everything.
At this age, discipleship doesn’t need to be complicated. Pointing out the cow in a book or the dog on a walk can become a moment of worship. I’ll often find myself saying, “God made that cow! Moo!” and suddenly my little one is mooing right back at me. Little by little, we help shape their understanding that the world isn’t random — it’s full of design, beauty, and love from the Creator who made them, too.
One of my favorite ways to build these conversations is through books. Simple stories, colorful pictures, and repeating words invite children to slow down and notice. When we read together, we’re not just passing time — we’re planting seeds of truth. Some of our sweetest moments happen when I’m curled up with a toddler in my lap, turning the same page over and over because he wants to see the “puppy” or “kitty” again. Each time we find one, he squeaks out the noise and buries his big grin into me. Those moments matter - for me and for him!
Here are a few books to tuck into your book basket as you explore the theme God Made Everything with your little one:
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Eric Carle — One of our family favorites for talking about animals! In addition to naming each animal and color, I always end up asking my little, “What does a cat say?” Cue the loud “MEOW MEOW!” This one pairs perfectly with Polar Bear, Polar Bear for animal sounds.
Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? by Eric Carle — If Brown Bear teaches us to see, this one teaches us to listen. Roars, trumpets, snorts — the fun sound effects are irresistible, and it’s the perfect opportunity to remind little ones that God gave every animal its voice.
Noah and the Very Big Boat by Tim Thornborough — This whole series is my favorite! The onomatopoeia and sound effects make it so easy to be animated when reading aloud. Add some movement actions and you’ve got a storytime full of giggles and truth. I picked this one for August’s basket because it’s filled with animals and animal sounds, but it also echoes God’s character — His faithfulness to keep promises, His purity, His power.
On the Farm by Davenport and Roberts — Babies are captivated by the bold black-and-white patterns. It encourages visual tracking and works beautifully to keep them engaged during tummy time.
DK Baby Touch and Feel: Bible Animals — A simple, sturdy book that pairs textures with different animals from favorite Bible stories.
What Are Eyes For? by Abbey Wedgeworth — A gentle introduction to God’s design for our bodies, paired with Scripture and sweet illustrations. Perfect for keeping hands busy with lift-a-flap and wonderfully written - full of God’s truth!
God Made Animals by Michael Vander Klipp — This one is always a favorite in our Sunday School. Kids love to carry it around and look at the pictures of the different animals. It’s simple, sturdy, and easy for little hands to hold.
Why Books Matter
Reading with toddlers isn’t just about the words on the page. It’s about slowing down, connecting, and letting them hear your voice speak truth over them. Every time you name an animal, point to a color, or make a silly sound, you’re helping them practice delight — the kind of delight God Himself takes in His creation.
If you enjoy this topic and want to explore deeper ways to teach your 0–3 year old about God’s character, check out the Monthly Menus theme for August: God made everything. It’s full of age-appropriate activities, prayers, and tools for weaving faith naturally into everyday life when you have little ones in tow.
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