This page contains affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy here. As we prepare to celebrate Canada Day, do you know which best-loved children’s authors are Canadians? I'm sure you recognize this one. Robert Munsch is perhaps the most wildly popular Canadian storyteller today. Adored by children and adults alike for his zany and energetic storytelling skills, he and illustrator Michael Marchenko … [Read more...]
Why boys need to see Dad read
Literacy and communication skills lay the groundwork for success in school and future employment now more than ever before, and studies continue to report that many boys continue to struggle with reading. Booth explains that when boys see Dad (or other male role models ) read, it helps to undo the misconception that reading is feminine and to gain a ‘reading identity’. Male reading mentors can also expand a young boy’s … [Read more...]
“My child has been reading leveled books all year. Where can I find them for the summer?”
When parents ask where they can find leveled books for summer reading, I explain to them that most children do not typically need to keep up with them on holiday. I did send packages of familiar books home with my students during my years as a Reading Recovery teacher. These books were on loan, and it was important that the students in or having recently completed the program maintained their confidence, phrasing and fluency gained from daily … [Read more...]
The timeless impact of reading mothers
Dear Reading Mothers, which I assume you are if you are visiting here. I post this classic Mother's Day poem in your honor today. You are giving a gift that can never be taken from a child, a gift that the child will pass on to others. I love this poem for defining what this gift really meant to Strickland Gillilan as a young boy and I believe it captures the spirit of what children love about being read to today. Enjoy. Happy … [Read more...]
Motivating young children to write – the do’s and don’ts!
Much has been written about the importance of motivating young children when it comes to learning to read. It is equally important to motivate them in writing. There is a reciprocal relationship between reading and writing. Here are some tried and true dos and don'ts for motivating young children to write: DO DON’T ensure that there are plenty of opportunities for kids to see role models writing for real purposes in a positive … [Read more...]
Great books for preparing kids for kindergarten
The ‘Back to School’ ads are gearing up (a little early, if you ask those of us who teach, but I digress…) For parents of little ones starting school for the first time, one way to help prepare is through viewing this special milestone through the eyes of others who have been there. Join these characters and their families on their first days of school by checking out the stories below: Well-Known Characters: Experience excitement along with … [Read more...]