10 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Book for Your Preschooler

Unless you are looking for a specific book, walking into the local bookstore or neighborhood library can be overwhelming if you have no idea where to begin! Preschoolers are vastly different from the toddlers they once were. Younger children are quite happy with books that have simplistic illustrations and minimal text. Somewhere around the age of three, and sometimes around the age of two-and-a-half, children began to crave more sophisticated literacy experiences.  Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you are wandering aimlessly amid rows and rows of books!

1.       Are the illustrations appropriate, engaging, and relevant? Young children are understandably drawn to pictures before text, so choose books that have photographs or illustrations that depict emotion and/or activity.  See if the illustrations reflect and enhance the text.  Also, ensure that the illustrations are appropriate and reflect the values you want to instill. For example, some of the Curious George books, depict smoking. That is not to say that you have to avoid Curious George books, (I happen to like the little guy) but whenever you select a book, you should be informed about what you are purchasing.

2.       Are the text and the illustrations bias-free? Look for books that fairly depict children of all races, ethnic backgrounds, and abilities. Select books that do not perpetuate gender stereotypes. For example, in books about community helpers are the women depicted to be teachers and nurses while the men are depicted as fireMEN and policeMEN?

3.       Is the text appropriate for my child’s developmental level? You want to choose books that have words that preschoolers can understand, but you also want to provide children with opportunities to learn new words as well.  Preschoolers  also like text that is predictable, rhythmic, and easy to memorize. And don’t be afraid to choose books that have NO WORDS! Wordless books offer great opportunities to create new stories over and over again!

4. Does the story inspire the imagination? Young children enjoy pretending; imaginary play is an important part of cognitive growth and development. Choose books that encourage children to think or imagine beyond the pages of the book.

5. Do you as the adult find the book interesting? As adults we often unconsciously pass on our own fears, likes, and dislikes onto children. Sometimes it is ok to choose books that YOU enjoyed as a child. Passing on your excitement and love for reading is a good thing!

6. Will your child be interested in the subject? Preschoolers enjoy books that describe experiences to which they can relate or ideas that they can imagine. Books about going to school, visiting relatives, or taking trips are relatable subjects for many young children. If your child has a particular interest, such as cars or horses, choose books on that subject.  In addition, use books to expose your child to new subjects that they might not otherwise experience!

7. Does the book encourage interaction? Although not every book will be interactive, it’s a good idea to choose some that are. Books that encourage your child to follow directions, search for a hidden object, open/close flaps, or perform other actions help children to understand that reading is not a passive activity!

8. What is the purpose of the book? Select a variety of books that serve a variety of purposes. Some books are humorous, others are meant to teach a concept or moral lesson. Other books are written to give children information about various subjects and other books help.

9. Is this a non-fiction book, and if so, is it accurate? Preschoolers have a funny little obsession with they word WHY! Young children are natural scientists who have an innate desire to learn about the world around them. Encourage this trait by selecting books that will expand children’s knowledge about their world. When choosing non-fiction books such as biographies or informational books, do your best to ensure that you are selecting books that are easily understandable and accurate.

10. Will my child want to read this book more than once? Think of choosing a book as an investment. When you invest in a new car or a new couch, you plan on using those items over and over again. Think of a book the same way! When your preschooler asks to read his favorite book for the 100^th time, realize that children learn with repeated exposure. So choose books that you and your child will want to read over and over.

Find an example of each book over at Tonya’s blog

Tonya Wright has over twenty years of experience in the field of early childhood education. She has taught preschool, pre-kindergarten, and kindergarten. She has professional interests in Reggio Emilia, the project approach and the RIE approach and has a deep passion for early learning with a special interest in language and literacy. Tonya’s undergraduate work is in Early Childhood Education and Psychology and received her Masters Degree in Educational Technology. Tonya has been published in various national, state, and local teacher magazines and newsletters. She is a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Recently Tonya began her Room to Grow blog and she also writes for Literacy Connections.

What was interesting about this activity was that I didn’t show him what to do. I put down a coloured pencil and paper. Then I put him inside the high chair.

Then went off and waited………………. I was close by doing something else but I could see him. Many times I’m happy to let him play by himself but today I wanted to watch him a little. Do you still watch yours a little? We used to watch them a lot when they were newborn babies. They were so cute and snuggly we listened to their snuffles and their little movements. I know that now I’m often redirecting redirecting……………did I say redirecting?  and playing with him that the observing part gets lost.

I had a moment where I looked busy but was really watching him.

In that short period of time between observing and snapping that picture here’s what I saw.

• investigation
• experimenting
• tasting
• touching
• movement
• flapping
• following his own agenda
• independence
• fun
• concentration
• talking to the paper
• talking to me
• rolling the pencil
• examining
• looking over the edges ( dropped pencil)

At the end there was one line, a broken pencil and paper on the floor.  So much learning and fun had taken place. Not everything in play is visible and obvious. I’m glad I took time to observe him playing. I highly recommend it.

So I have a big confession. This is the first time in over 6 years that I will be leaving my children for 4 days and 3 nights.

I know. I know I should have done this a lot sooner but being a military wife and having a husband with an all over the place work schedule has meant that I have been flexible to our families needs and well………neglected my own somewhat!

New year new priorities. I have been blogging for a while and decided that this year I would be going to Blissdom in Nashville, Tn.  I want to meet more people like me in real life.

I’m totally excited, anxious & nervous because it’s this week!

As a military family we’re used to irregular work schedules and moving but the common denominator in all of this has been me. I’ve always been there. I’m sure they will be fine without me. I want it to be a positive experience for everyone. I don’t want to come back to a nightmare after experiencing Bliss. From past experiences it is hard to keep them focused on the here and now. They were always on the countdown to when Daddy was coming home or we would see daddy.

Since I blog about play activities here are two easy activities that took less than 15 minutes to do ( 10 of that was finding the books). I guess I could print out a few activities from the newsletter ( right sidebar) since I have the inside track but I think this time Daddy has plenty of play activities up his sleeve.

So what do you do for your children when you decide to go to a blogging conference ?

Use the conference material

We received some popcorn in our Blissdom packages. (Plus a lot of other amazing goodies) I know they will be munching those and eating my share on Friday night during family night fun. We can connect through that.  They get a larger share ( always welcomed with popcorn). I also bought their favourite pizza so they should be lots of smiles that night. We received two packets so we get to share one together when I get back.

Record bedtime stories

I know I will be busy so as much as I want to check in with everyone I don’t know if I will and when. While they maybe happy not to hear my voice I think really they will miss hearing me around the house.

I’ve recorded three stories for them to listen to for bedtime. This is a special treat in itself because they don’t get on the computer that much and here is mum saying come on the computer anytime and listen to a story.

It is really easy to do. Download Audacity. Install. Connect your headphones with mic or use your current computer. Record your story. For more instructions on how to do this see create your own. You can also burn your home stories to CD to play in their room. But I know mine will love to come to the computer and listen. That will be special for them. Doning the headphones and grabbing that book.

I chose

Slinky Malinki For the BG

One Bear at bedtime              For the MO

I’m Thankful Each Day For the LO

Listen to part of each one below. The bump sounds you hear at the end of One bear at bedtime are for page turning

I’m hoping that this will ease their worries a little….and truth be told ease mine that they will be having a great time.

The test is………will they look forward to me going away again if they know something special is coming their way?

I hope so!

For more Wordless Wednesday posts visit : Wordless Wednesday and 5 minutes for mom.

Find out more about this photo tomorrow with Tell me Thursday

Yesterday after reading an article about late talkers from the Times I shared our experiences with language and early intervention with my two older boys. Today I’m sharing some of the things we have found useful. They are useful for all language learning but particularly useful with late talkers.

Not sure where your child is? Do they have a problem or need some help?

Gather Evidence

1. Use this language list and see where your child falls
2. Ask your doctor what language do you expect to hear. 50 words or 100 words doesn’t tell you which words. If you’re a new parent or a parent who hasn’t been around little children ( like I was) that number means……..er not much. Which words would you expect? Then you can work on them or listen for them.
3. Try some activities that encourage language. We have some language ideas. Follow some language blogs written by speech therapists. I’m not a speech therapist. I’m a parent who has had two children go through early intervention so can only say from my perspective.
4. Be proactive. Wait and see is no good if there is no fixed end date that you are aiming for. Early intervention works if you do it early. Although it is right that it is never too late. There is a better time. Ever tried to learn a language as an adult compared to when you were a child?
5. Know your child. Do they understand you? Are they frustrated? Tantrums and frustration due to language problems  go together in our household like thunder and lightning. You may read on forums or with friends how X worked for them or how their child just all of a sudden started talking no need to worry. That is them and your child may or maynot be different. You need a lot more reason to do nothing than my friend down the road said so.
6. Be receptive. Keep an open mind. Maybe your child does have a language need. It maybe a long term issue or short term. It can be as simple as new instruction and behaviour or a course of lessons  and activities. Language delay isn’t a label that they keep forever in most cases.
7. Relax. There are many many people who have children with language issues. There are many many successful people who had language issues.

I love the Hanen speech Calendar.

We have it on our stairs.

When we come down we can read a quick idea and think on it and try it during the day. We have last years calendar.

Look at the milestones for your aged child. Right now. Devise a few games to practice and see if they can do this. All the games are fun and play based. This is part of No.5 Knowing your child.

Gather your evidence. You don’t need months and months to do this. Talk to a professional. Have your fears discussed and make an action plan for the future.

Teach me to Talk with Laura and Kate

Speech pathologist and play therapist have a call in talk show online. You can submit questions via email or call into their show. They are a wealth of information and both are still practicing. They also have a blog that answers questions, DVDs that show you how to do language techniques ( easy to forget after they are gone) and community.

Talking tots

I have written about them here before. As well as classes based around language their blog is full of information on how to encourage language based play.

Please share your resources below.

Children are reaching the age of 3 without being able to say a word, according to a survey that also found boys are almost twice as likely to struggle to learn to speak as girls.

The average age for a baby to speak their first word is 10 to 11 months. However, a significant minority (4 per cent) of parents reported that their child said nothing until they were 3.

Toddlers between the ages of 2 and 3 should be able to use up to 300 words, including adjectives, and be able to link words together, according to I CAN, the children’s communication charity. Late speech development can lead to problems, such as low achievement at school or mental health problems.

Source: Times

So what did your child do?

If your child talks late there are all sorts of reasons for it. It is not simply one reason. It can even vary between families and within families.

Common reasons I have heard and overheard,

” My brother/ I was a late talker so he/she will be. I’m not worried”

“They watch a lot of TV. It’s not rubbish TV but educational programs.”

“They’ll catch up.”

“It’s no big deal. We all develop at a different pace. They are just not into talking right now. But they can make amazing things.”

“I had no idea if she was behind or ahead. She understood when we asked her to fetch something or to stop doing it. “

“My neighbours child was speaking in complete sentences and I knew that was really advanced but didn’t realise what mine should be doing?”

“We played and talked with him and he’s just not saying many words”.

That last comment was ours and has been our mantra for the last few years.

You see we’ve had speech and language problems with the BG and the MO.

What the most important thing I have learnt during this whole process is to focus on my child. Not what Trevor down the road can do or Cousin Tilly. What is my child doing? What is he ( or she) supposed to be doing? ON AVERAGE. Where are they on that scale? Do I need help and support now so I know where they are?

Photo credit: www.babies-and-sign-language.com

For many children they will just get it and catch up albeit later on. They were not at the ‘right’ time for whatever reason to develop language. Those same children it may or maynot be partly the fault of the parent choices or the nurture/nature debate. None of that matters who is to blame the point for us has always been what can we do to encourage language learning.

At each of our well baby checks initially with the BG we had the ASQ ( Ages and stages questionnaire) to fill in. Great information for the parents to see what their child should be doing across the age group and not just within our small social groups.

This is significant. We were among many girls and our view of language was very skewed because of it. Seeing the results gave us clues.

Before his 18month appointment for BG we could see clearly that he was much further ahead in many areas but significantly behind in speech and language. It wasn’t for lack of trying on our part.

We requested a further evaluation because we believe in early intervention. The Dr was happy to evaluate or wait. I felt I had seen first hand in school how hard it is for pupils with a language problem to succeed if it is not caught. I was happy to try intervention and see how they could help me/us and the family.

The question always is……..if I had left him he may have just blossomed on his own. My answer always is………….. Maybe. But the gamble is if he didn’t then at school age we would have problems.

My point with this post is not to point the finger. As I have 3 others pointing right back at me. I have one child currently and one who has graduated from the Early intervention program.

Instead I wanted to raise the issue that intervention is not a last resort. It’s nothing to be afraid of. We have to get over blaming ourselves- whether it was a bad parenting choice, ignorance, depression, confusion or just plain sleep deprivation. If our child is not talking and they are over one then we must take steps to do something about it.

Tomorrow I share some of the practical ideas of encouraging a late talker from one parent to another.

What have been your experiences of language learning with your children and your friends? Would love to hear in the comments.

It’s Friday!

I’ve got the virtual chocolate

Photo: http://www.sweetnothingschocolateco.com/

I tasted these last week at the local Baby expo…..delicious.

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Here are some on my tweets from this past week I’ve enjoyed around parenting and play.

They made me think, smile ,cry and take action. Hope they inspire you too. Interesting articles and blogs I have found this week via Twitter or my Reader.

If you tweet let me know your ID in the comments.

• NAEYC  Inventing Music Play Centers: http://bit.ly/74Dpwl (Young Children article) #musicmonday #naeyc #ece

• #FF #parenting podcasters who leave you thinking and smiling @parentingunplug @vickyandjencom@annie_fox

• Jelly / Jello sensory play – http://nurturestore.co.uk/jelly-jello-sensory-play

• commercialfree New Kaiser Family Foundation study finds children spend more than 7.5 hrs per day with media. http://bit.ly/7eX2VP

• Join @ajpassey in celebrating winter with great prizes, music, crafts, activities and more! http://bit.ly/7gzKWw

• activekidsclub New post by AKC : Let there be color http://bit.ly/5nfSuz #playoutdoors #play #family #kids

• Baby Einstein’ Founder Goes to Court http://tiny.cc/nBFc3

• @playfullearning Diary of a Bulb
• @pinkandgreenmama Waldorf Window Stars

• @simplekids What We’re Listening To: New Year, New Music

Raising Playful Tots is an Internet radio or Podcast available 24hrs a day . Host: Melitsa Avila of Play Activities. Download each episode yourself visit each show notes to do this or have iTunes do this automatically for you.

Week 24th Jan 2010: Dawn @paintermommy, multiple business owner and mother of 4 little ones shares how she fits it all in and finds time for play.

Yesterday you saw a photo of the LO wearing my shoes.
It’s a new habit. He finds them and wears them around the house.
Toddlers love to observe and then copy. When it is wearing your slippers or trying on your boots you can smile as they thump around the house it is cute but we’ve all been in situations when they do something you know it’s because we do it and they are just imitating us….not so cute and very humbling for us.

The new joy has given endless new play experiences. Getting the shoes on and off, throwing them, wearing odd pairs, moving with huge shoes on little feet. I see the concentration as he tries to get his foot inside and move with the shoe on. Tries to run and fall and feels the limitations of his new shoes. I see his focus as he scans the room looking for the other shoe ( any shoe) As we get ready to get out the door he tries to find his shoes or our shoes.

He is experimenting.

He’s playing!

For the rest of the family it is one huge headache finding our shoes and slippers especially if you are in a hurry. BUT we have to remind ourselves that he’s just playing not trying to slow us down. ( Note to big brothers)
OK I know I could just lock all the shoes away and then voila the problem would go away…………but think about all the experiences he would be missing. This is what everyday play is all about. Finding everyday moments to experience life through play.

……..( I must admit. Some days the shoes do get locked away)
What do you encourage even though it can be hard on the rest of the family?

Thank you for reading my Tell me Thursday story. Please find the others at Tell me Thursday.
Stick around there’s plenty more to read.