Search Results for: blog developing a taste for literature

Developing a Taste for Living Books

While the historical fiction area of my local library, I notice a woman talking. She was in a little sitting area behind me slouched on a couch. Across from her was this boy about 12 years old deeply involved in a book. I wondered for a moment if I should go save this kid from this crazy lady talking to herself. She then directed her attention on the boy. I stepped in a bit closer just in case I had my opportunity to be a superhero. Turns out the boy just learned the art of ignoring his mother. Finally he … Continue reading →

Developing a Taste for Literature

There’s nothing like handing a book to a toddler and watching them literally tear through the pages to bring tears to the eyes. Common sense says that if you provide your toddler with something that makes a great sound like tearing paper – well, that’s exactly what they are going to do. But don’t despair, you can still engage your toddler with books galore – you just have to approach it from their level. Board Books Are Best Cardboard or board books are virtually indestructible. They’ll withstand juice being spilled on them, teeth marks being sunk into them and the … Continue reading →

Shakespeare Graphic Novels

Recently we have embarked on studying Shakespeare in our homeschool. Shakespeare is essential teaching to anyone with a literature, classical or Charlotte Mason approach. In fact, at some point all students are given exposure to Shakespeare. One of the most common complaints by students is their lack of understanding the Old English used in all of Shakespeare’s writing. While I find it one of the most beautiful aspects it is source of frustration for even many homeschooling moms. This is understandable as the Old English is quite different than today’s modern language. One advantage my children have when reading Shakespeare … Continue reading →

Salem Ridge Press Answers the Call for Wholesome Books

Established in 2005, Salem Ridge Press mission is to revive quality wholesome children’s books the entire family can enjoy. Salem Ridge Press is bringing back books from the 1800’s and 1900’s to this generation of young readers. Solid “living books” should never go out of fashion. If you seek to bring your kids great literature you can trust then give these books a chance. Salem Ridge Press offers books in different genres such as historical fiction, allegory, adventure and young readers. They also carry plenty of historical fiction books that focus on church history. A great feature on the site … Continue reading →

Storybook Treasures: Sign Language DVDs

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Scholastic Storybook Treasures: A Sign Language DVD. If you have not heard of this before then please pay special attention. These DVDs are a wonderful way to introduce your child to sign language through those special stories they already know and love. The DVD points out on the cover that sign language is linked to improved fine motor skills, increased vocabulary and higher IQ scores. Since you cannot believe everything you read I looked this up and it is all true. Let’s discuss format a bit. The DVD is about 36 minutes … Continue reading →

Benefits of the Bedtime Story

Reading your child a bedtime story is a sweet moment for both the parent and child. Most children have a favorite bedtime story they insist on hearing nightly. Parents hardly need the book as favorites are committed to memory. These golden moments never have to fade with time as reading aloud is a great way to spend time with a child of any age. The benefits and memories last a lifetime and can turn into a family tradition that your children will pass onto their children. Reading to a child encourages a love for books. A child who reads or … Continue reading →

The Very Hungry Caterpilar Unit Study

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle is a much loved book by little ones and parents alike. In fact, it was my son’s favorite book when he was little. This book is beautifully illustrated and teaches lessons that you can apply to your little student’s homeschool curriculum. If you intend on teaching from a literature based approach or simply want to add in book studies or unit studies to keep your child interested, here is a way to incorporate use this book for those purposes. A great choice for a number focus for this book is seven based on … Continue reading →

Twaddle Free List of Kindergarten/First Grade Books

Kindergarteners and first graders are curious and creative. To keep their interest and to nurture their already innate sense of curiosity you need to keep your bookshelf stocked with twaddle free books. Allow your child the pleasure of introducing them to Curious George, Madeline or Amelia Bedelia. All three were noted as great childhood friends in my literary world. One book that always brings back the fondest of memories is Corduroy. Who can resist this precious bear who only wanted a home or his adventure with his lost button? What memories do you have from your childhood books? I remember … Continue reading →

Twaddle Free List of Preschool Books

It is important to develop a good taste in books from an early age. What preschooler does not enjoy sitting on a caretaker’s lap with a good book. At this age this love of books is formed by the relationship associated by the preschooler with the caretaker. A natural curiosity about the world is nurtured by opening up a world of books. Just like we teach good eating habits at an early age, we need to teach good reading habits. Below is a list of “twaddle” free books to enjoy with your preschooler. Lyle, Lyle Crocodile (all Lyle books), by … Continue reading →

The Baby Week in Review October 21-27

Welcome to this week’s Baby Week in Review as we go over all the stories that were covered in the Baby Blog for the week of October 21 through the 27th. There was a lot of ground covered this week and we’re heading into the end of October and beginning of November. Next month marks my baby’s 6th birthday and I keep wondering how we got so far, so fast. Still, I get to relive some of the great moments and share my memories here in the baby blog. So without further ado, here is our Baby blog week in … Continue reading →