Babys First Words by Emiri Hayashi

There’s something magical about watching a baby’s eyes light up when they recognize a word or an image for the first time. Baby’s First Words by Emiri Hayashi is more than just a board book—it’s a gentle, interactive introduction to language, designed to captivate infants and toddlers while fostering early communication skills.

As a parent, caregiver, or educator, you’ve likely encountered countless "first words" books. What makes this one stand out? Hayashi’s delicate illustrations, thoughtful word selection, and tactile elements create an experience that feels both soothing and stimulating. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore why Baby’s First Words is a must-have addition to any child’s early library.

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Unlike traditional storybooks, Baby’s First Words doesn’t follow a linear plot. Instead, it’s structured as a series of beautifully illustrated scenes, each introducing common first words in a baby’s vocabulary—objects like "ball," "cat," and "flower," as well as simple actions like "hug" and "sleep."

The book’s genius lies in its pacing. Each page presents a single word alongside a corresponding image, making it easy for little ones to focus without feeling overwhelmed. The soft, pastel-colored illustrations are inviting, and the sturdy board book format ensures durability for tiny, eager hands.

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Since this is a word-learning book, there aren’t traditional characters. However, Hayashi’s illustrations give personality to everyday objects and animals. A fluffy cat looks curiously at the reader, a teddy bear seems ready for a hug, and a bright red apple practically begs to be touched. These images aren’t just static—they feel alive, encouraging interaction.

For babies, these "characters" become familiar friends, reinforcing recognition and emotional connection. The lack of complex narratives is intentional, allowing the focus to remain on word association and sensory engagement.

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Hayashi’s approach is minimalist but purposeful. Each word is carefully chosen to align with early speech development, focusing on nouns and verbs that babies naturally gravitate toward. The text is large and clear, making it easy for parents to point and read aloud.

The narrative technique is repetitive in the best way—repetition is key in early learning, and this book embraces that principle. The pacing is slow and deliberate, giving little ones time to absorb each word before moving on.

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At its core, Baby’s First Words is about connection—between parent and child, between a baby and the world around them. The book subtly encourages:

• Language Development: By introducing simple, high-frequency words, it supports early vocabulary building.
• Bonding: Reading together fosters closeness and reinforces verbal interaction.
• Sensory Learning: The soft, textured illustrations invite touch, enhancing engagement.

There’s also an underlying theme of discovery. Babies are naturally curious, and this book turns everyday objects into exciting revelations.

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As someone who has read countless baby books (both as a parent and a reviewer), I can confidently say that Baby’s First Words stands out. My youngest child, at nine months old, was immediately drawn to the soft colors and large, friendly images. Unlike some overly bright or cluttered books, this one held her attention without overstimulating her.

What I loved most was how naturally it encouraged interaction. She’d pat the pictures, and I’d name the objects—soon, she started making sounds in response. It wasn’t just a book; it was a conversation starter.

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Many first-word books exist (First 100 Words, My First Word Touch-and-Feel), but Hayashi’s stands apart for its:

• Artistic Style: The illustrations are gentle and aesthetically pleasing, avoiding the garish colors found in some competitors.
• Simplicity: Some books cram too many words per page, but this one keeps it clean and digestible.
• Tactile Appeal: While not a full touch-and-feel book, the textured elements add just enough sensory input.

If you’re looking for a book that balances education with artistry, this is a top contender.

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✅ Beautiful Illustrations: Hayashi’s soft, dreamlike art style is calming and engaging.
✅ Perfect Word Selection: Focuses on foundational vocabulary without overwhelming.
✅ Durable & Baby-Friendly: Thick pages withstand chewing and grabbing.
✅ Encourages Interaction: Great for pointing, naming, and repeating.

❌ Limited Vocabulary: Some parents might wish for more words, but the simplicity is intentional.
❌ Not Fully Interactive: While it has some texture, it’s not as tactile as dedicated touch-and-feel books.

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• Ages 0-2: Ideal for babies just beginning to focus on images and sounds.
• First-Time Parents: A wonderful baby shower gift or first-birthday present.
• Montessori & Gentle Parenting Advocates: Aligns with slow, intentional learning.
• Multilingual Families: Easy to adapt for bilingual word exposure.

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Since this is a word book, there aren’t traditional quotes, but some standout pages include:

• "Hug" – A tender illustration of a parent and child embracing.
• "Moon" – A serene night scene that often became a bedtime favorite in our house.

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Originally published in France, Baby’s First Words reflects a European aesthetic in its soft color palette and minimalist design. Unlike some American baby books that prioritize bold, high-contrast visuals, this one leans into subtlety, which may appeal to parents seeking a gentler introduction to reading.

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Baby’s First Words is more than just a book—it’s an experience. Emiri Hayashi has crafted a visually stunning, thoughtfully designed introduction to language that feels both educational and intimate. Whether you’re building a baby’s first library or looking for a meaningful gift, this book is a beautiful choice.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

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• What was your baby’s first word, and did any books help reinforce it?
• Do you prefer high-contrast baby books or softer illustrations like Hayashi’s?
• How do you make reading interactive with your little one?

Let’s chat in the comments! 📚💬

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