2026 Blogging A to Z Challenge: Under the Sea
The Letter “U” is always tricky for the blogging challenge. This year for the 2026 Blogging A to Z Challenge, I went a little specific considering the other words I selected, but it did give me enough titles to select for the theme and I think it worked out well. It doesn’t hurt that I love being at the ocean and that my blogging logo is an octopus, it kind of fits the theme!
While board books don’t often have much of a plot since they are so small and focus more so on concepts and vocabulary, it’s fun for kids to learn about new things that they might not experience elsewhere. I mean, unless you visit an aquarium, it’s not super likely that you’ll be talking about jellyfish, whales, and sharks in your day-to-day conversations! Have fun exploring the depths of the ocean with this Under the Sea board book list!
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2026 Blogging A to Z Challenge: Under the Sea
Bubbles by Ben Clanton
Dive into a brand new Narwhal and Jelly story for the youngest readers! When Narwhal accidentally bursts Jelly’s bubble with their tusk-tooth, Jelly is a little sad . . . until Narwhal shows him that there are lots of bubbles in the ocean! There are little-bitty bubbles and great big bubbles. There are bubbles up high and bubbles down low. There are bubbles that are pink and bubbles that stink. It’s unbelieva-bubble! This charming board book celebrates the power of imagination and play, and is perfect for both fans of the Narwhal and Jelly graphic novel series and readers new to the world wide waters.
Look Touch Learn: Sea by Child’s Play International, illustrated by Charlotte Archer
Very young babies see the world differently, and that’s why we have developed this unique book, using the latest scientific research in infant perception. With a specially selected palette, tactile elements, and moving parts, every feature of this book will stimulate your child’s endless curiosity and creativity. It’s as simple as Look Touch Learn!
Mrs. Peanuckle’s Ocean Alphabet by Mrs. Peanuckle, illustrated by Jessie Ford
From A to Z, Mrs. Peanuckle introduces toddlers to words about the earth’s oceans. These simple nature words are sure to be a hit with budding biologists, curious young environmentalists, and parents and teachers who want to encourage learning and an awareness of our unique planet!
Ocean by Sarah Dellow
Early readers will love discovering the animals hidden in this book. Just turn each page to make the vibrant patterns come to life! Perfect for developing early perception skills, stimulating the imagination – and simply having fun!
Submarines by Helena Harastova, illustrated by Diarmuid O Cathain
Join Karl the kiwi bird on an exciting underwater adventure that introduces submarines, marine life, and ocean exploration in a fun and easy-to-understand way. Designed for kids ages 6 to 9, this fully illustrated nonfiction book takes young readers deep into the sea to explore how submarines work, what lives in the ocean depths, and how scientists study life underwater. Bright illustrations and kid-friendly infographics turn complex ideas into clear, engaging discoveries.
Perfect for curious kids who love oceans, vehicles, and science, this children’s ocean exploration book makes learning feel like an adventure. With sturdy pages, vivid visuals, and Karl’s enthusiastic guidance, it encourages exploration, observation, and a growing interest in marine ecosystems. Ideal for independent reading, classroom learning, or gifting, this book helps kids build knowledge and confidence while uncovering the mysteries of the deep sea.
Whale by Maggie Li
Starting off as a baby close to its mother, Whale charts an incredible journey, traveling to colder waters to find plenty of krill to eat, growing with every swish of its tail. In this fun, informative board book, Whale learns the right time to surface for air, how to sing to other whales across the ocean, and when to return to warmer waters. A die-cut throughout the book emphasizes how nature is full of changes—and before long, it’s time to start the cycle all over again.
What Can You See? Under the Sea by Molly Littleboy, illustrated by Maria Perera
In this newest installment of Tiger Tales’ What Can You See? series, young readers can peek through the pages to learn all about the world beneath the waves. Children learn about the animals that live on the ocean floor, such as crabs and urchins; creatures that cling to rocks, such as limpets and mussels; dolphins and sea turtles; corals; octopuses; and many more underwater inhabitants. Simple text and lively illustrations make this an ideal introduction for children who are interested in learning more about the animals that live in the ocean.
What Goes In the Ocean? by Dori Elys, illustrated by Katie Cottle
Soaring manta rays wave hello.
Schools of fish, clams, and grazing turtles.
A puffer fish, completely blown!
Can you tell what goes in the coral reef,
and what should stay out?
Take an education vacation underwater to learn about all things fishy! With each page turn, little ones explore vibrant under-the-sea habitats, seek what belongs, distinguish the silly things that don’t, and splash back to shore.
Who Am I? Under the Sea by IglooBooks, illustrated by Sally Payne
Who has a round body with big eyes? Who has eight long tentacles? Each page features simple word and picture clues that guide young readers as they try to guess which marine animal is hiding behind the sturdy flaps. With every flip, little ones will reveal an exciting sea creature while strengthening fine motor skills and early problem-solving abilities.
Designed for babies and toddlers, this interactive book supports early literacy, builds vocabulary, and encourages hands-on exploration. The repetitive format makes it easy for little ones to follow along, encouraging participation and boosting confidence.
With colorful illustrations and fun surprises on every page, Who Am I? Under the Sea is a wonderful way to introduce young readers to the magic of the ocean while fostering a love of books and learning!
2026 is my eleventh year participating in the Blogging A to Z Challenge! This year, my theme is Board Books for Babies with a focus on providing book suggestions that parents and caregivers can share with, of course, babies, but also toddlers and preschoolers! Each letter of the alphabet will focus on a different subject and will provide nine titles for each subject. While there are dozens of classic board books out there, this list includes titles published in the past 5-6 years, so you’ll get to learn about new titles, authors, and publishers! Stop by daily to check out the new books and other posts that I’ll be sharing in April.
