Cozy Count: Why "Doggies" is the Perfect Pick for Little Ones
As a mom of two energetic kiddos, bedtime can sometimes feel like a chaotic relay race—but there’s nothing quite like ending the day curled up with a book. Recently, amid our usual lineup of sleep stories, I stumbled upon Doggies by Sandra Boynton. I’d heard whispers of its charm, but it wasn’t until my two-year-old, Charlie, pointed at the yellow cover with a delighted squeal, that I knew we were in for a treat!
This little board book packs a punch with its delightful premise: an imaginative counting adventure starring a lovable troop of ten whimsical dogs, each boasting their own unique sounds. From big woofs to tiny yaps, Boynton artfully weaves together a playful narrative that engages young readers while teaching them the basics of counting. It’s essentially a joyous cacophony of barks, and let me tell you, it quickly became a staple in our bedtime routine!
In terms of illustrations, Boynton truly shines. Each page bursts with vibrant colors and adorable doggie depictions that capture my kids’ attention immediately. The playful, cartoonish art style sparks giggles as they eagerly flip through the pages, timed to my exaggerated woofs. The moment we hit “Three dogs,” my kids erupt in laughter, and I can’t help but join in.
I’ve noticed that every reading brings a wave of excitement. Charlie often imitates the sounds, barking along, and even my five-year-old daughter, Emma, joins in the fun, waving her arms around as if she’s conducting our dog orchestra! There’s a playful line where the text goes, "Four dogs! YAP YAP YAP!" that gets us all howling. I truly cherish these moments, filled with laughter and the kind of joy that only comes from shared silliness.
The book is perfect for snuggling with little ones (or even your furry friends!). It’s sturdy, making it less intimidating for toddlers like Charlie, who are still navigating their way through the world of books. Plus, it’s delightful to see how our family’s little dog, Benny, perks up whenever the book is opened, as if he’s part of the action!
If you’re searching for a way to introduce counting to your little ones while indulging in the thrill of animal sounds, Doggies is perfect for ages 0 to 2. It’s ideal for little explorers, future animal lovers, or just those who enjoy a dose of silliness before bed. Not only do my kids adore it, but its humor and heart have nestled themselves among their beloved bedtime treasures.
After a week of nightly read-alouds, it’s safe to say Doggies has claimed a permanent spot in our family library. It reminds me of the blissful chaos of parenthood—filled with laughter, love, and the joyful counting of our furry friends. If this is what bedtime looks like, I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world. So, grab your little ones, cozy up, and get ready for some rollicking, barking fun!
Happy reading! 🐾✨