Reading by the Fireplace

Even before we started homeschooling I was a strong believer in the benefits of reading to your children. When our first born child came along we were reading to him before he could even say Mama and Dada. We wanted to build his creativity and imagination and we wanted him to be able to enjoy a good book. We have continued to read with all of our children. As a matter of fact, one of my favorite things to do in the winter is to sit by the fireplace cuddled up in blankets while reading to my children. They love hearing the stories and adding what they think might happen next. I love seeing the excitement and surprise in their little eyes.

(We received books to review. We only give honest reviews).

We have a list of  books that we have enjoyed and we thought you might enjoy. These would make great Christmas Gifts as well!

• Roaming Reindeer– This book is so cute! There are two plush reindeer included with the book. Parents can use the storybook and the little reindeer to encourage good behavior at Christmastime. When one reindeer goes missing, he’s off telling Santa who has been naughty and nice. This can become a new family tradition and it comes in a keepsake box for easy storage. This is a great way to encourage good from children rather than mischievous behavior. You can purchase the book at www.roamingreindeer.com for $34.95.

• My Yellow Balloon– This book has great illustrations as the illustrator is the same illustrator from DreamWorks “Shrek”. This hardcover book is already an award-winner! The book is about a little boy who loses his best friend, a bright yellow balloon. The book gives children courage to experience loss (of a pet, a family member or even a move). It teaches children about change. This book is perfect for Kindergarten graduates as they are going through change! My Yellow Balloon can be purchased at www.myyellowballoon.com for $18.99.

• This is the Greatest Place– This book teaches children how nature’s influence can be seen around us and how people and animals can live together in harmony. The book is interesting for young children because it has lift-flaps and is illustrated by world renowned artists. Available at www.walfc.org for $12.95.
• In the Forbidden City– This book has a large format and i very impressive for young readers. The book is part of the “We All Live in the Forbidden City”, a dynmaic educational program in China Institute about the history, culture, architecture and life of imperial China as seen through the lens of the Forbidden City. You can purchase this book at www.walfc.org for $19.95.

• The Principle Gang series– There are several books in this series. One book is titled, Don’t Judge a Lizard by His Scales and the other is Wizard Lizard Rides the Subway. These books are great anti-bullying lessons. They teach children that we are not to be mean, that we need to tell teachers if we are being bullied and that we need to be friendly to everyone. You can purchase these books at www.theprinciplegang.com for $14.95 each.

We received books to review. We only give honest reviews.