We had a super busy summer, and I stayed true to my promise of spending more time with the kids and family and less time on the computer. I also stayed true to my Book A Day pledge and read with my kids every day. My little daughter, who was just seven months old when I started this blog, is starting Pre-K next week, and she is so excited she can hardly stand it. I, on the other hand, am probably like most parents when their kids go to school for the first time - proud of the little girl she's become but also a little tearful because she seems to be growing up so quickly. She is SO eager to learn how to read. We've been practicing letters and sounds, and I keep telling her that it takes time and that she's still very young. A part of me is super excited to see her reading books, and another part is secretly hoping that she'll still want me to read to her when the time comes. It's become such a routine that I think she will. She's only 4 1/2, so there's time before she starts to read independently.
The little dude is 19-months-old now and has started developing a real interest in books. He's starting to name the objects he sees in books and brings me books to read to him. Our reading sessions last about 10 minutes before he gets restless, and it's definitely fun to see him show an interest and get excited when he sees something he can name.
Now that school's almost here, my daughter has asked me to find books for her about kids starting school. We have a few that she loves (
Splat! The Cat is one of her favorites), but the books we've found so go something like this:
Kid is nervous about going to school. Kid goes to school and discovers that it's a wonderful place. Kid can't wait to go back the next day.
Until we read some of these, my daughter didn't even think about being nervous. Do any of you have recommendations for books in a school setting where the kid is happy and excited about being back to school?
Thanks, and I hope everyone has a very happy school year!
I just read Bailey by Harry Bliss. No nervousness on Bailey's part. :)
ReplyDeleteI can't think of picture books like that, but you could try reading her the Clementine books. She loves school (even if she gets into a bit of trouble here and there).
ReplyDeleteFun to read about your son enjoying books. My small one is a couple of months younger, and isn't saying very many words yet, but she's just started being able to point to things that we ask her about (can you see the bunny?, etc.). So much fun!
Good luck with the transition to school!
Lindsey - Thanks! I'll definitely check out Bailey.
ReplyDeleteJen - I forgot all about the Clementine books. Great suggestion! My little guy has really started talking in the past couple of months, so I'm sure your daughter is almost there. Isn't it so fun to see them learn?
Jill, It’s great that you are emphasizing the importance of reading and learning while your children are young. At America’s Promise Alliance, we know that learning doesn’t stop when the child leaves the classroom and that parents who are committed to the Five Promises can make the difference. Thanks for continuing to instill reading and family time as a vital part of every child’s life!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your positive feedback, America's Promise team, and thank you for all of the work you do for children. Maybe we'll run into each other in DC one day. :-)
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