The perfect way to keep little hands busy goes by many names!
Quiet books (also known as busy books, felt books, or play books) are soft, interactive books designed to keep children engaged and entertained while promoting learning and development. They are typically made of fabric or felt and are bright and colourful!
There are many benefits to playing with Quiet Books. 
- Cultivate Cognition
Quiet books offer a hands-on experience that encourages creativity and problem-solving as children manipulate the different elements within the book. They promote independent play and focus. In a world filled with distractions, quiet books provide children with a soothing and calming activity that encourages them to concentrate and engage with the materials in front of them.
- Luminate Their Language
Quiet books are a great way for children to develop their language and literacy skills. As a Speech-Language Therapist, this is one of my favourite uses for a quiet book! By engaging in imaginative play with the different elements of a quiet book, children can practice their language skills by narrating stories, describing characters, and communicating with others. This can help to develop their vocabulary, sentence structure, and communication skills.
- Ignite the Imagination
Quiet books allow children to utilize their creative minds and imagination to explore endless possibilities. They inspire kids to engage in pretend play, invent their own stories, and uncover their interests without any constraints as they interact with each page.
- Foster Fine Motor Skills
- Terrific Travel Companion
Quiet books are portable and easy to carry, making them an ideal travel activity for children to keep them entertained during long journeys. As they are quiet, and mess-free, they won't disturb other passengers or clutter up the car or plane. These interactive and engaging books make the best travel companions by offering a variety of activities and textures that can keep children entertained for long periods of time.
- Take a Break from Screen Time
Quiet books are an alternative to screen time. They allow children to engage in imaginative play independently. This can foster independence and self-reliance as children have the opportunity to explore and play on their own, developing their sense of autonomy and creativity.
- Boost Bonding Time
Quiet books can be a tool to encourage bonding between parents and children. These books require interaction and engagement, providing a great opportunity for parents or caregivers to spend quality time with their child. They are perfect for busy parents who want to enjoy the present moment and enjoy their child’s company. Children can play together to foster their play and social skills.
Quiet books have many benefits. I love that they can grow with your child. At first your child may be engaged in the bright colours and textural elements. They may imitate you moving the dolls into the scene, opening the flaps, or placing items into pockets. Eventually, they may use it to independently create stories and foster their narrative development.
Overall, quiet books are a wonderful addition to any child's playtime repertoire. They offer a screen-free, interactive experience that promotes learning and development in a fun and engaging way. Whether used at home, in the car, or on the go, quiet books provide endless opportunities for children to learn and grow while having a blast.