by Janie Reinart
Infants and children love the sound of their Mommy's or Grandmommy's voice. (Daddy's and Papa's voices too!) Reading, as well as talking and singing, are viewed as important in
increasing the number of words that children hear in the earliest years
of their lives. This is why we are children's writers! We model reading and writing to our children and grandchildren.
Drawing and painting are the first form of storytelling.
Pediatricians across the
country, are asking parents to read
aloud to their children starting when they are infants. The American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes that an important part of brain development
occurs within the first three years of a child’s life, and that reading
to children enhances vocabulary and other important communication
skills.
Although I do love technology, I'm a believer of having my grandchildren learn to turn a page before they learn how to swipe a screen. This video looks at future generations that might never leave the house or look away from the screen. We need to nurture being in nature as well as a love for reading and writing.
Current favorite reads of the "littles" in my life include:
Chalk by Bill Thomson.
Of course I sent chalk along with the book to long distance grandchildren. After reading the book via FaceTime, my 3 1/2 year old grandson wanted to go outside and draw with the "magic" chalk that Grandmommy sent him.
Naked and Chicken Cheeks by Michael Ian Black
The humor in Michael's books are perfect for the toddler set. Both make a great read aloud.
A Bird is a Bird by Lizzy Rockwell
Several of the grandchildren now have bird feeders and are identifying birds in their backyards.
Wolfie the Bunny by Ame Dyckman
Ame's writing knocks my socks off. Love anything that she writes.
My toddler fan club agrees.
Share book favorites from your children or grandchildren. Keep letting them hear the sound of your voice and see you reading and writing.
