Posts from the ‘homeschooling’ Category

EXPLORING NEW HORIZONS

Jazzy and Kettle

Written by Rick Quinn

Illustrated by Sefira Lightstone

A charming picture book that focuses on two children who accidentally meet. They are both new to the neighborhood. Although a bit apprehensive about their new surroundings, the girl and boy named Jazzy and Kettle decide to leave the confines of the yard and explore the area behind them.

They discover animals, plants, and springtime. Jazzy is braver and she gets herself in a bit of trouble. That leads to Kettle using his problem-solving skills and acting beyond his comfort zone. This multicultural book is appropriate for children ages three and older. It will be useful for children who have recently moved or who may be hesitant about making new friendships.

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SPEAK UP!

Freddy the Fox Will Not Share His Thoughts (The Mindset School)

Written by Heather Lyn Davis

Illustrated by Corryn Webb

Freddy the Fox is clever and curious. He has one big problem. Freddy has difficulty speaking his mind. He cannot make choices or express his opinion. In school, Freddy does not answer even if he is sure of the answer.

Will Freddy gain the courage to speak out and share his convictions at home,in school, and with his friends?

This book is a good choice for young children who are shy or lack confidence in themselves

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ON SECOND THOUGHT…

When I Grow Up, I Want to Be an Alien (When I Grow Up Collection) Kindle Edition

Written by Mikayla Ruvalcaba

Illustrated by Maria Burobkina

A young girl muses about her future. At first, she decides she wants to be an alien. She changes her mind when her mother reminds her that aliens might not exist.

Because she loves space, this protagonist changes her mind and outlines to her readers the advantages of being an astronaunt. Then again, she is intrigued by the idea of being an astronomer. Throughout the beautifully illustrated picture book, children learn about space, the solar system, the planets, and the life of an astronaut.

There are bonus sections that include lots of information about each planet, how life is formed, how stars are formed, and even how to pack for a trip to space.

A lovely book filled with facts and colorful illustrations for children interested in outer space or a career related to it.

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WEATHER WISE…

The Hedgehog Who Painted the Weather: A Heartwarming Tale of Magic, Friendship, and Nature

Written by Ingo Blum

Illustrated by Olha Taran

An adorable picture book about weather and the seasons that also teaches children the value of teamwork, problem-solving, friendship, and caring for nature.

Tom, a hedgehog, loves to paint. One day he finds several blank canvases and decides to paint them. Tom paints scenes of the weather and different seasons. He rotates hanging them on his wall. Then something strange happens. It seems that when hung, these pictures actually control the weather. Tom consults with his friends, Rudolph the squirrel and Michael, the Swallow. Together, the three friends come up with a solution to the problem.

This book includes charming characters with appealing illustrations that teach children about weather, friendship, teamwork, and taking care of nature,

Recommended for ages three through eight.

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LEARNING HOW TO BE A BIG SISTER

How to Be a Big Sister Book for 3 Year Old and Up Girls: A Fun Rhyming Story to Help Your Little Girl Welcome a New Baby Sibling with Love and Confidence — The Perfect Gift for Toddlers

Written by Elowen Clover

This rhyming picture book is meant to prepare the future big sister for her new role in her growing family.

The book is easy for toddlers and preschoolers to understand. Large expressive illustrations enhance the lessons. The new big sister is taught how to assist with feeding, changing, singing, bathing, and family outings. There are simple ways to learn how to be a loving big sister and friend to the new sibling.

Hidden pacifiers on the pages encourage interactivity and increase engagement.

Recommended to expectant parents to prepare for the new arrival.

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WHY IS CRITICAL THINKING NECESSARY?

Teaching critical thinking to children in elementary school is crucial for their overall development and future success. Here are a few reasons why it is important:

  1. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Critical thinking equips children with the ability to identify, analyze, and solve problems creatively. By encouraging them to think critically, we empower them to approach challenges with a logical and analytical mindset. This skill is not only beneficial during their academic years but also helps them navigate real-life situations effectively.
  2. Promotes Independent Thinking: Teaching critical thinking encourages children to question information, sources, and perspectives. They learn to evaluate evidence, form their own opinions, and make informed decisions. This fosters independence of thought, empowering children to rely on their own judgment rather than simply accepting what they are told.
  3. Develops Analytical Abilities: Critical thinking helps children develop strong analytical skills. They learn to break down complex problems into smaller manageable parts, analyze each part individually, and then synthesize the information to form a coherent understanding. This process of analysis develops their ability to assess situations objectively and make logical connections.
  4. Encourages Curiosity and Creativity: When children are taught critical thinking, they naturally become more curious and open-minded. They learn to ask questions, explore various possibilities, and seek a deeper understanding of the world around them. This curiosity fuels their creativity and enables them to think outside the box, fostering innovation and originality.
  5. Prepares for the Future: In today’s rapidly evolving world, critical thinking skills are more important than ever. As children grow up, they will encounter new challenges, diverse perspectives, and complex issues. By nurturing their critical thinking abilities from an early age, we equip them with the skills necessary to adapt, problem-solve, and thrive in an increasingly complex and dynamic society.

In conclusion, teaching critical thinking to children in elementary school is essential for their intellectual growth and overall development. It empowers them to think independently, make informed decisions, and face challenges with confidence. By fostering critical thinking skills, we prepare them for a future where adaptability, creativity, and analytical abilities are highly valued.

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SIGNS OF SPRING

It Must Be Spring (It Must Be Seasons Book 3)

Written by Michelle Wang

Illustrated by Ulianna Barabash

A lovely picture book for preschoolers and early readers.

The multicultural book can be used to teach colors and action words associated with the spring season. As each member looks out the window, that person highlights a color and steps outside in the rain to play. Readers meet the parents, grandparents, and siblings of the family.

A fun book that encourages children to be interactive as they imitate the actions of each character.

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BANISH TOOTH CREATURES

The Tale of Fuzzy Tooth Critters: How Do Sugar Bugs Survive in the Mouth? 

Written by LaTonya Butler

Illustrated by Shiela Alejandro

This RDH does an excellent job of explaining to young children why sugary foods are harmful and how tooth decay occurs.

By using humor and fun illustrations, children understand why they need to keep teeth and gums clean. Readers learn the proper way to brush and floss as part of the fun to read rhyming story. At the end, they are introduced to a visit to the dentist.

Recommended to parents of preschoolers as a tool to learn about effective dental hygiene.

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LET YOUR IMAGINATION SOAR

Kragglepus (The Dragon Library) 

Written by Carolyn Watson-Dubisch

An almost wordless picture book that invites the young reader to use imagination to interpret the story.

The protagonist is a dragon who gets lost and finds himself in a strange world inhabited by humans. Dragglepus introduces the reader to foreign creatures as well as familiar everyday objects. The author invites the reader to combine them and create an original tale.

Whimsical and colorful illustrations enhance the book. This book will be enjoyed over and over by readers ages three and older.

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THE BEAUTY THAT SURROUNDS US

The Beauty of Us All: Celebrating The Diversity of The World 

Written by Chandele Morris

Illustrated by Marissa Napolitano

A beautifully illustrated picture book to remind us of the simple beauty in objects and creatures all around us. The author reflects on the diversity and beauty of leaves, stars, fish, clouds, and the color of our skin. Each is beautiful, unique and loved.

Beautiful multicultural images enhance the message. Recommended for ages five and older.

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