Choosing reading books for infant and toddlers (newborn - 2-3 yrs. old)

Listening to you read, cuddling next to you or your partner, fidgeting, even leaving the room are all part of a child's sense of wonder. Their immersion into reading is auditory. Allow them to listen to you. They love to hear you speak.

Choosing books to read can be fun. Even if you hated to read growing up. Or even if you have never actually read an entire book before, don't allow your past to stop your little ones from developing a love of reading.

I've seen people who claimed to have never read a single book; declare they will "Read 10 (children) books tonight!!!" With that kind of emphasis. It can happen for you or someone you know, too! 

Hopefully these tips will help you choose books for your baby, infant or toddler.

Sensory books:

Books with sensory (touch) and auditory (hearing) enhancements are great starting points. The baby will probably not let you read them but will want to turn pages and feel the fabric, synthetic fibers and crinkling paper. Try reading the book, but know that just providing them with a book and your time, gives them happiness beyond measure.

Black and white books:

Since babies don't see clearly or all colors until about 4 months old, these types of books help children focus on the object and have fun reading while still being young. 

Board books:

These types of books are awesome! They let kids be kids! They wont be easily damaged. They are thick and will last longer than a regular paper book in the hands of a toddler. Children will eventually find ways to pick at corners and destroy books. Honestly, the way I see it, it's them exploring. To me that in-itself is the beginnings of reading. I'm not saying to allow them to tear them up, but also, don't get mad if they do. It's just how they read. Let them know it's not OK to hurt books and eventually they will get it.

You can find great board books at Marshalls, Ross, Goodwill (second hand store). Target and Walmart also have some available. If you prefer to shop online, Amazon, Barnes and Noble offer ways to shop from home. Choose board books that peak your interest and start from there.

Flap Books:

By Age 1 to 1 1/2, your child may be interested in these books. With your help, they'll have fun discovering what is behind the flap. 

Indestructables: 

Books that won't tear and can be hand washed. Kids can chew on the, ball them up and they last. The books do curl, but with some bending they come back to shape. I have two of these books and my two year old enjoys the large, colorful drawings. 

When to read?

Whenever you have the time. It can be traditional bedtime, 5, 10 minutes, or more of reading. Or it can come when you come home, after dinner. The beauty of reading is that it can occur at any time. Spontaneous! It can involve one, or many. Fill your home with reading and you will see a flourishing you never imagined. You'll be proud to call your baby a reader.


Have a beautiful time reading,

Kathy 

***Links are only intended as examples. 

Count your blessings

Staying at home with my children has put a financial strain on us. At times I question my choices. But, over five years later, and having gone through all my savings, I think it has been the best choice. It hasn't been easy, but my children don't see it. They live their lives, happily.

Two weeks ago I was grocery shopping. I had a strict budget. I had to choose between buying and not buying a box of tampons. It's the first time I have ever had to think about that. I looked at the prices. I looked at the absorbency. I thought about my budget. I almost thought about not getting them, and just figuring it out. Luckily, I put myself first and bought them. Leaving the grocery store with only cents in my account is something many families go through. It is something that is happening more often to me. A new normal that I have to work with and strive to change. I'm trying to budget more. Really look at the items I am purchasing. I'm good with saving and budgeting, but food prices and gas prices really hit hard when they fluctuate.

I only write about this so that we may think more about others that are going through difficult times. Choosing between personal hygiene and food is such a lonely feeling. You feel alone at that moment, deep in your thoughts. And when the total are coming in at checkout, I feel anxious. What if I go over? What do I pay with? What do I put back? Thankfully I haven't been there yet. I'll take .37 left in the bank anytime.

Today is my mom's birthday. We went out for breakfast with my parents, brother and Jazzy. Had a lovely time. Thankful that they are here. Thankful they care. Last night I was thinking about what to do with the kids this weekend. I figured we'd be hitting the parks, and a lot of counting my pennies to make it an enjoyable weekend for my children.

As we are saying good byes in the parking lot, my dad hands me money and says to me, "So you guys have a nice dinner somewhere." I cry because we don't have much, and this money helps with groceries and a sweet treat later this hot weekend.

Count your blessings, fam. Love your life. It may be shit sometimes, but little miracles happen. It may just be that butterfly flying by, or that bird poo that hits your right shoulder as you walk.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Kathy

Does your child want to go to school?

I don't mean to call anyone in particular out. Or hurt any feelings. This is tailored towards Elementary aged students, but can be tweaked depending on the grade.


If your child enjoys going to school and seems happy, then things are great. Just stay informed about their feelings towards school and their day to day.


You never want to dismiss your child not wanting to go to school. Talk to them and try to find out the problem. Get your child to open up about what is making them feel like school isn't fun, because it should be. It isn't fun and games, but structured learning, where your child feels welcomed to participate and enthusiastic to learn. Lacking those can put a child behind.
 
Of course, not all problems with children are that serious. It could also be that they miss you and would rather be with you. If so, hype up school and their teacher. A teacher will never replace a parent or guardian in their lives, it's OK for children to really care for their teachers. Teachers try to foster a sense of community in their classroom and work towards everyone enjoying each others company. It's part of what makes a good classroom work. I digress. Perhaps they just need to go to sleep earlier to feel more rested and less grumpy.

But, It could be a student issue, a playground issue, a food issue (they may dislike the food), or the teacher. I am not saying to give a child full reign and allow them to stay home, but I would investigate the situation. My first instinct is to write a note to the teacher. I recently wrote one regarding issues during recess time. Things seem to be going much better now. And the changes were almost immediate. If you would rather speak to someone, visit the school, morning can be hectic, so scheduling a visit by calling the office isn't a bad idea. Perhaps arrange a classroom visit so you can silently observe what is happening during lessons or during recess time.


These are just my ideas and classroom expectations.

Take care,

Kat