I Love My Family

Written and Illustrated by Angela M. Smith

An interesting book that explores the reasons why we should love our family and stick together in good and bad times.

The artwork is done by both children and adults. This gives the book a non-professional homespun appeal. It is clear that not all families are alike, and single-family homes are becoming more prevalent.

I enjoyed the author’s blank pages at the end, which allow the reader to draw and express personal feelings about his own family.

Probably best suited for preschool and younger readers.

Bahay Kubo, Nipa Hut: A Filipino Folk Song in Tagalog and English

Written by Kendel Brady and Guadalupe Ruiz

A delightful picture book for toddlers and primary-grade readers. This is a bilingual book that contains Tagalog and English on each page, with large illustrations to explain vocabulary. Readers learn about the plants native to the Philippines.

As a bonus, the author includes a native folk song. There is an interactive memory game available for download.

Especially appealing for toddlers and early primary grade readers.

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Counting Monster Chefs: Numbers in the Kitchen (Little Monster Learners)

Written and Illustrated by Ameliessa Richardson

Lots of laughs and learning are crammed into this picture book that teaches toddlers and preschoolers to count. The characters remind me of Sesame Street. Illustrations showcase nonstop humor in addition to interactive counting prompts.

The author cleverly includes alliteration and onomatopoeia to make reading this book aloud fun for the adult as well as the child, enjoying its message. Young readers will want to pick it up over and over. Repetition reinforces the learning process. At the end of the book, there is a link to additional printables.

As a former educator, I highly recommend this book to parents and teachers of children ages two through five.

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The Adventures of Pookie: Home is Where the Heart is

Written and Illustrated by Rebecca Yee

A story about animal adoption from the point of view of the dog being adopted.

Children meet Pookie, who is excited to meet her new owner. Readers follow her journey as she explores her new surroundings and the loving care of Pookie’s new human family.

The illustrations are simple yet expressive and evocative of the appropriate emotions. I would recommend this book to young children who want to adopt, and as a teaching tool to explain the shelter adoption system.

This book is recommended for toddlers, preschoolers, and primary-grade readers.

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Our Hearts: A children’s book about how we navigate all of our feelings together with the ones we love.

Written by Kathleen Davis

Illustrated by Martyna Nejman

This beautifully illustrated rhyming picture book imparts a beautiful message for any age. The feelings we hold in our hearts belong not only to us but to those around us who love and care for us.

Our parents and friends experience the joys and sorrows, successes and failures we hold in our hearts. As we grow older our hearts expand as does the ability of others to share in those feelings. Our ability to love always outshines the feelings of fear and sadness.

I especially enjoyed the multicultural illustrations and the interactive feature, which encourages young readers to find and identify scenes and objects in the book.

Highly recommended for elementary and middle school readers, but a joyful message for all ages.

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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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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.

Pip the Bird: For Early Speech & Language Development

Written by Rachel Florence Meyer

Illustrated by Kathy Lee

A wonderful picture book collaboration by a mom and a speech therapist. The protagonist is a little bird named Pip, who assists his fellow animal friends to avoid danger when a gardener comes in the yard with a lawnmower,

The rhymes are crisp and sharp with lots of action words in bold print. Children are encouraged to read aloud. I appreciate the interactive guide for parents and teachers up front before the story begins. Illustrations contain wonderful details and facial expressions.

Highly recommended for parents and teachers of toddlers and preschoolers.

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If Shapes Could Eat: A fun rhyming story encouraging a healthy relationship with food and trying new things. 

Written by Rella B.

Illustrated by Wendy S.

The protagonists are colorful shapes who get together for a block party. At the party the shapes enjoy a variety of foods including meats, fruits and vegetables. I like the way the author portrayed shapes who were eager to share new things and explained to readers that it is okay if we do not all have the same taste. Also, there were shapes who had allergies and needed to avoid certain foods. This makes children who have allergies feel more comfortable in being different.

The rhymes are crisp and the illustrations fun and colorful. Highly recommened as a bedtime story or read aloud.

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