Broaden children's horizons, help learning process
Young children are eager to learn. The more they learn, the greater control they feel in the world they are just beginning to explore.
Gaining knowledge and understanding covers a wide spectrum. For toddlers and preschool children, learning colors, numbers, letters and so on is important.
So, too, is learning about emotions, interactions with nature and people, and navigating through the uncharted waters of day-to-day wonders.
Children have a very limited point of reference to base their thoughts on. That's the beauty of childhood. Everything is fresh and new and exciting. Each new thing a child encounters is an opportunity for growth and understanding.
Books play an important part in that exploration, such as those reviewed today.
Seeing the world through a child's eyes is a gift. Be an active and positive participant in helping a child discover and understand life. Marvel together at the beauty of a flower, the busy activity of bugs, the sight and sound of a flock of birds. The list is endless.
Join your child in experiencing the simple, profound pleasures life offers us all. You'll be amazed at how much you'll both gain from it all.
The following book is available at many public libraries.“Guess How Much I Love You” by Sam McBratney, illustrated by Anita Jeram, Candlewick Press, 32 pages; read aloud: birth to age 4; read yourself: age 7 and older.Can the love between a child and parent be measured? Little Nutbrown Hare tries to do just that when he compares his love for his father to as many things as he can think of. He loves his father as much as his arms can stretch wide, as high as he can reach, as far away as the river.Each comparison Little Nutbrown Hare makes is countered with a comparison of even greater measure by his father, who also wants his son to know just how much he loves him.A beautiful, warm and tender story that is certain to make readers feel good all over, this selection successfully demonstrates that so great is the love between a parent and a child, it is truly immeasurable.
Library: Evans City Public Library, 204 S. Jackson St., Evans CityLibrary Director: Judith PfeiferChildren's Librarian: Patricia PflugChoices this week: “Up, Down, and Around” by Katherine Ayres; “My Friend Rabbit” by Eric Rohmann; “So Happy” by Kevin Henkes
The following books are available at favorite bookstores.“Noodle Loves the Beach” written and illustrated by Marion Billet, nosy crow, 2012, 10 pages, $8.99 board book; read aloud: birth to age 3; read yourself: age 5 and 6.The adorable panda bear named Noodle loves all kinds of things that have to do with going to the beach. From a fun sailboat, playing in the sand, splashing in the water, and having a delicious snack of a sticky peach, Noodle and young readers will agree that going to the beach is lots of fun.Colorful illustrations combine with the simple rhyming text and a different touch-and-feel opportunity on each double-page spread, making this delightful book both fun to read and educational. And don't miss the equally awesome companion book, “Noodle Loves to Eat.”“Little Bee” written and illustrated by Edward Gibbs, LB Kids, 2012, 26 pages, $8.99 board book; read aloud: 18 months to age 3; read yourself: age 5 and 6.“Little bee, little bee…why do you flee? Because there's a hungry frog chasing me!” But why is the frog running away? Because a scary snake seems to be chasing the frog!And so, the situation repeats itself over and over again, with everyone misunderstanding the intent of the one behind them. And in the final moment, the funny surprise ending will have kids giggling and requesting to read this selection again and again.Nationally syndicated, Kendal Rautzhan writes and lectures on children's literature. She can be reached at: www.greatestbooksforkids.com
