Curly Crow’s Family Feast: A Children’s Picture Book for Kids Ages 4-8 about Finding Strength in Challenges, Wisdom in Problem Solving, and Thanksgiving for Family (Curly Crow Children’s Book Series) 

Written by Nicholas Aragon

Illustrated by Natalie Junqueira

An innovative picture book that teaches about problem solving and teamwork. In addition young readers receive knowledge about many species of birds along with the story about Curly Crow and her family.

Curly and her family are scavengers. When the dumpster outside the restaurant where they live is closed for Thanksgiving, the family has no food. Curly decides to visit the Rio Grande nearby to observe how other birds gather their food.

After much frustration, she observes similarities and differences and figures out a solution. Readers learn a lot about bird species and how to problem solve.

The book is highly recommended for preschoolers and primary grade readers.

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Rooger and Loki Learn Manners: Sit, Boy, Sit. A Children’s Story About Dogs, Kindness and Family (The Curly Crow Pawprints Collection Book 1) 

Written by Nicholas Aragon

Illustrated by Remesh Ram

When Dad decides to take his twins, Quinn and Finn to the park, they are delighted to find two playful Boston Terriers wrestling in the park. After striking up a coversation, the twins learn tat the twin pups named Rooger and Loki are homeless. The children decide they will need to learn manners and discipline before anyone will adopt them so the twins begin that task. At first, the job seems hopeless. Readers will laugh at the mayhem. Will the twins succeed with their good intentions?

The cute picture book teaches kindness and patience. Appropriate for animal lovers ages four and older.

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Adventures of a Pangopup (Endangered and Misunderstood Animals (Book 2) 

Written by Terri Tatchell

Illustrated by Ivan Sulima

A charming picture book written in rhyme that teaches readers to heed their mother’s advice, while also educating them about endangered animals.

The book is part of a series about endangered animals. In this one readers learn about the pangalong and the dik-dik deer. When Pangopup decides to sneak away from his mom, he meets the deer who persuades him to go on an adventure. Will the two new friends survive?

The soft colors and exquisite rhymes teach without being preachy. Preschoolers and primary grade readers will delight in reading the book over and over. Lots of bonuses include drawing activities and information about these two unique animals.

Highly recommended for both home and school libraries.

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Meatball’s Adventurous Appetite: A Pet Cat’s Funny, Entertaining, and Engaging Read Aloud Thanksgiving Story Picture Book for Kids 3-8

Written by Dr. Feng Zheng-Ward

Illustrated by Roka Studio

This book is part of a series about Meatball and his family. When Mrs. Jones needs to run to the store, she leaves their Thanksgiving turkey on the counter. The cat sees his chance, but fails to foresee the danger.

What follows is a hilarious adventure that creates havoc for the entire family and the fire department.

Will Meatball learn his lesson? What happens to Thanksgiving dinner?

The picture book is a delight for young cat lovers and fans of humorous stories. It includes fun to read highlighted words and story questions.

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Sam Says NO! (The Adventures of Sam the Mule)

Written by Dean R. Giles and Brenda Giles

Sam is an adorable mule who lives up to the reputation of being stubborn. Every time he faces a new situation, his answer is no. Sam will not try new foods and refuses to meet new people. Will anyone be able to persuade him to change?

The illustrations are simple but endearing. This series will develop a toddler’s curiosity and help prevent the “no” syndrome. Appropriate for children up to eight years old.

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Every child is different—and so is the way they respond to discipline. How you parent impacts how your child learns boundaries, responsibility, and emotional control. Here’s a simple guide to how parenting styles shape discipline and how you can adjust to better support your child.

4 Parenting Styles and Their Discipline Approaches

Authoritative (Balanced and supportive)
o Sets clear rules and explains them.
o Focuses on guiding, not punishing.
o Try this: Help your child make a plan after a mistake instead of just punishing them.

Authoritarian (Strict and controlling)
o Enforces rules without discussion.
o Often uses punishment.
o Watch for: Anxiety or rebellion in sensitive kids.

Permissive (Lenient and avoidant)
o Rarely sets rules or follows through.
o May avoid conflict.
o Risk: Kids lack structure and may push limits.

Uninvolved (Detached or inconsistent)
o Few rules or expectations.
o Minimal supervision or guidance.
o Consequence: Kids may feel insecure or unsupported

How to Adjust Based on Your Child’s Needs

• For Anxious Kids: Use calm tones, predictable routines, and gentle corrections.
• For Strong-Willed Kids: Offer choices within limits and enforce consistent boundaries.
• For Independent Teens: Let them help set rules and learn through natural consequences.

5 Smart Discipline Tips for Any Style

✅ Watch how your child reacts—adjust when needed.
✅ Stay connected and respectful.
✅ Set clear limits, but allow flexibility.
✅ Model calm, respectful behavior.
✅ Evolve your approach as your child grows.

Final Thought

Discipline isn’t just about control—it’s about teaching. The best approach grows with your child, helping them become confident and capable.

Guinness the Good Girl Goes to School (G3 BOOK SERIES)

Written by Matthew Gillmann

Illustrated by Penny Weber

When Dottie brings her rambunctios dalmation, Guinness to school, all chaos breaks loose. It seems that Guinness cannot contain her friendliness, curiosity, or eagerness to participate.

Readers learn and follow her adventures in the multicultural classroom and community. Nice illustrations and story. One suggestion, the print size might be a bit larger for younger readers.

Reccommended for ages three through eight.

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The Mosquito Burrito: A Hilarious, Spanish Sprinkled, Rhyming Children’s Book

Written by Didi Dragon

Illustrated by Lenaska Ti

What a fun bilingual read! Dragon cleverly rhymes Spanish and English short phrases that roll off the tongue.

The plot centers around a mosquito who finds himself stuck inside a burrito. After taking a bite, he simply cannot resist eating his way through it. I love the humorous play on words. This book has enthralling illustrations that enhance the plot.

I highly recommend the book as a read aloud for primary grade English and Spanish speakers to promote reading and language skills.

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Where’s Gramma?

Written by Tricia Gardella

Illustrated by Greg David

Four grandsons describe a grandmother who keeps them guessing about her next exploit. This grandmother lives on a farm. She fills her days with adventures like collecting bugs, milking cows, diving in a swimming hole, pouring concrete, or climbing a tree.

Visiting gramma is certainly an experience worth looking forward to. A nice book to share when family gathers together. Good choice for preschoolers and older readers. The illustrations complement the mood perfectly.

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Can CLUTZ THE cAT Keep Trying?: A Growth Mindset Book

Written by Misty Black

Illustrated by Ana Rankavic

This book is part of a motivational mindset series for elementary school readers.

In this volume, Clutz the cat has recently fallen out of a tree and broken his tail. He is a clutz, but has lots of friends to support him. When his teacher announces a bike race, the cat feels badly. Luckily, his friend Punk the Skunk offers to teach Clutz how to ride a bike. Clutz uses the power of affirmations to keep his spirits up.

Will Clutz persevere and be successful? This fun read aloud contains clever rhymes and pleasing illustrations to delight kids and adults. I enjoyed the interactive discussion guide included to reinforce the mindset lesson.

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