A great book is often all the inspiration a child needs to engage in meaningful pretend play. Big Red Barn, by Margaret Wise Brown, gently showcases a variety of farm animals going about their day and settling down for the night. The rhythmic text, and soft illustrations, create a sense of calm that we enjoy. … Continue reading Big Red Barn
Category: New Classics
July Beach Book Challenge
We are extremely lucky to be able to spend the month of July at our family's beach house at the Jersey Shore. While there this summer, I thought it would be fun to challenge the kids, and myself, to read 31 different fiction picture books about, or set at, the beach. We will be using … Continue reading July Beach Book Challenge
Planting a Rainbow
Ahhhhh, spring. That means it's garden time! We have a large vegetable garden in our back yard where we attempt to grow our vegetables for the summer. We are generally moderately successful. This year, Big Kid has been involved with the whole process, starting with planting seeds, and now planting in the ground and weeding. … Continue reading Planting a Rainbow
ABC Bunny
I was skeptical when Before 5 in a Row recommended ABC Bunny, by Wanda Gag as part of their curriculum. I pull a lot of my parenting style from the Montessori philosophy, and therefore, don't push academic skills before Big Kid is ready. Two years old seems a little young to introduce the alphabet, however, … Continue reading ABC Bunny