A board book is a type of book specially designed for young children, typically infants and toddlers. What sets board books apart is their construction; they are made with thick, durable pages often constructed from cardboard or heavy paperboard. These sturdy materials make them resistant to tearing, chewing, and other wear and tear that might result from the handling of very young children.

Key characteristics of board books include:

1. Durability: The thick, board-like pages make board books durable and capable of withstanding rough handling by young children.
2. Safety: Board books are considered safer for very young children who may put objects, including books, into their mouths. The materials used in board books are non-toxic and designed to minimize potential hazards.
3. Interactive Features: Many board books include interactive features such as flaps, textures, or simple cutouts that engage young readers and encourage sensory exploration.
4. Simple Illustrations and Text: Board books typically feature simple and bold illustrations with minimal text. The text is often geared toward basic concepts, repetitive language, or simple narratives suitable for the developmental stage of infants and toddlers.
5. Subject Matter: Board books cover a wide range of subjects, from basic concepts like colors, shapes, and numbers to everyday topics that are relevant and interesting to young children.
6. Size: Board books are often smaller in size compared to regular picture books, making them easy for small hands to hold and manipulate.

These features make board books an ideal choice for introducing books to babies and toddlers, fostering early literacy skills, and providing a safe and enjoyable reading experience. They are commonly found in libraries, bookstores, and as part of early childhood development programs.