Busy Brains

Artist unknown, but stunning work 👏

One of my all time favourites! Kids love this hilarious story about a fox that invites a chicken for a stroll. And when a dinner invitation is offered, the little chicks try to warn that it is not a good idea. The funny details in the full-color illustrations by three-time Caldecott Honoree Mo Willems will bring non stop laughter.

A prerequisite for reading is phonological awareness (the ability to recognize and work with sounds in spoken language). Books with rhyming words can help teach this skill.

Celebrate Canada Day this week with a wonderful Canadian author. This book was one of my children's favourites when they were young. It is based on the Yiddish folktale, "Joseph's Overcoat". Joseph's mother tells him he must part with his beloved blanket when it get worn and frayed. But Joseph's Grandfather alters it into useful items again and again.

All children have their favourite books. As you read one to your child, ask them what comes next. Or have them make up a new ending to the book. This will help with memory and imagination.

Mem Fox’s books are some of my favourites for littles. As you read, talk about the beautiful illustrations and the sounds the animals make. As the little animals get sleepy so will your little one. With rhythmic verse and gentle illustrations, this book is ideal for reading before bedtime.

Children’s books contain different words than we speak. The more words a child knows when starting school, the easier it will be to learn to read

Little Quack's brothers and sisters splish, splash, and splosh their way into the pond behind their mama. Will this cute little duck join his family? Count along and find out in this beautiful, bright book.

Books can help children understand concepts such as coping strategies & building self-esteem.

You can expand on story time by taking this opportunity to ask your child questions while reading books together.

Studies show that further engaging your children by asking them questions can have significant and positive effects on their vocabulary and story comprehension.

Here are some questions you can ask:
1. Why do you think the character did_____?
2. What do you think will happen next?
3. What kind of animal is that?
4. How do you think the character is feeling?
5. What was your favourite part of the story?