IBC Awards 2025 longlist revealed!

Snuggly, sleepytime stories and songs

This dreamy list of books for baby and toddlers includes soothing lullabies, lyrical tales and bedtime stories, perfect for promoting good sleep-time routines.

Curated by experts, it's a carefully crafted, calming collection for little ones, featuring the very best children's books that naturally embrace diversity.

1+years

Baby, Sleepy Baby

Author: AtinukeIllustrator: Angela Brooksbank

Ideal for bedtimes, this lyrical beauty celebrates family time. With soothing text and gentle repetition, it’s inspired by a Nigerian lullaby.

Own Voice
Black representation
Mixed-heritage representation
Black/brown representation
Diverse cast

1+years

Bedtime, Not Playtime!

Author: Lawrence SchimelIllustrator: Elina Braslina

A little girl gets ready for bed – but the family’s naughty little dog has other ideas!

Own Voice
LGBTQIA+ representation
Same-sex parents
Mixed-heritage representation
Female lead

2+years

It's Time to Hush and Say Good Night

Author: Chitra SoundarIllustrator: Sandhya Prabhat

With the feel of an instant classic, this gorgeously rhyming lullaby is sure to become a night-time favourite.

Own Voice
South Asian representation
Single parent

1+years

Bedtime With Ted

Author and illustrator: Sophy Henn

It’s bedtime – but Ted is far too busy with various urgent activities to comply.

Black/brown representation

1+years

Zeki Sleep Tight

Author: Anna McQuinnIllustrator: Ruth Hearson

After a tiring day little Zeki winds down for bed, with a milky drink, soothing bath and a gentle lullaby.

Black representation
Challenges gender stereotypes

1+years

Baby Rhyme Time: Hey Diddle Diddle

Illustrators: Annie Kubler and Sarah Dellow

Revisit a delightful classical rhyme that has been enhanced through charming and inclusive illustrations!

Black representation
Black/brown representation
Diverse cast

You are viewing 6 of 6 books in this collection.