Childrens Music: Clap for Love Say Yeah!

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Clap for Love Say Yeah! Sep 30th 2011, 06:22 If you dig Laural Canyon-style music (think Linda Ronstadt, The Eagles, James Taylor, Crosby Stills Nash & Young, Joni Mitchell, etc.), then Little Miss Ann's Clap for Love will be right down your alley. Warm production and personal lyrics make Clap for Love, Ann Torralba's second children's CD,�an intimate and entertaining experience for kids and their families. Little Miss Ann is based in the Chicago area, so try to catch�one of her�performances at The Beat Kitchen or The Old Town School of Folk Music. Read a full review of Little Miss Ann's Clap for Love Image Courtesy Little Miss Ann

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Board / Card Games: What's Hot Now: Best Children's Word Games

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Best Children's Word Games Sep 30th 2011, 10:02 Word games are a great way to help young children learn how to read and spell, or to help older children really fall in love with words. Here are my picks for the best children's word games. 1. Scrabble Junior This game comes with two versions, one for children as young as 4 or 5, the other for children up to 10. For the very young children, they match tiles to letters printed on the board. The game for older children is a basic version of Scrabble with simple scoring. For two to four players. 2. Boggle Junior In the junior version of Boggle, children match the letters on the cubes to what they see pictured on a set of cards. Due to the nature of the game, you may find that your children like to make up their own rules. For one or more players, ages 3 to 6. 3. Apples to Apples Junior The gameplay is similar to the adult version of Apples to Apples, which is a tremendously fun party game. Players are dealt five red (noun) cards and try to pick one that best matches the judge's green (adjective) card. For ages 7 to 12. 4. Taboo Junior It's just like Outburst, except with 200 words chosen specifically for children. Players try to get their teammates to say the chosen word -- but without saying any of the five "taboo" words listed on the card. For ages 8 to 12. 5. Hangman This is the boardgame version of the classic pen-and-paper game Hangman. For two players, recommended for ages 8 and up although some younger players will definitely be able to play.

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Children's Books: What's Hot Now: Halloween Costumes Based on Kids' Books

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Halloween Costumes Based on Kids' Books Sep 30th 2011, 10:03 Have you thought about creating a Halloween costume for your child based on a favorite children’s picture book? Thanks to Sherri Osborn, Guide to Family Crafts and her readers, I have information about, and photos of, a number of homemade Halloween costumes that relate to children’s books. Many of them are even no-sew costumes. Since a lot of the materials needed can be found at Goodwill, DAV, or similar stores, most of these costumes are both easy-to-make and low-cost. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Halloween Costume Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is a favorite read aloud for younger children because of its infectious rhyming text and the exuberant illustrations. It’s an alphabet book about the adventures of a group of young (lowercase) letters climbing up a coconut tree. I was delighted when I saw the clever costume (see photo above) that Ann Stafford devised. Even better, if you’d rather use a glue gun than sew, you can make this a no-sew Halloween costume. Ann has provided both a materials list and detailed instructions for the Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Costume. Pippi Longstocking Halloween Costume Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren has been a favorite with kids for more than 60 years. As you can see from the cover of Pippi Longstocking, Pippi is known for her red hair, braids that curve out from her face and crazy socks. This makes it pretty easy to make a no-sew Pippi Longstocking costume. In fact, it’s more a matter of makeup and a wig with wire in the braids to make them stick out, plus fun long socks, than an actual costume. But whatever you call it, the end result is cute, as you can see from the Pippi Longstocking photo submitted by Meillyn Gustar. Max From Where the Wild Things Are Halloween Costume My review of Where the Wild Things Are is one of the most popular articles on About Children’s Books. Many 3- to 6-year-olds enjoy hearing the story of Max and the Wild Things again and again. Although there is no photo included, we’re indebted to tela1999 who submitted a materials list and specific instructions for an easy-to-make Max Halloween costume. She made it for her son and said, “It was adorable!" Scarecrow and Tin Man from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Many kids are familiar with The Wizard of Oz in the movie version while others have enjoyed The Wonderful Wizard of Oz book, or both. Of the two, the Scarecrow costume is much easier to make and is also a low cost Halloween costume. The photo and directions for the Easy to Make Scarecrow Halloween Costume were submitted by Bobbye Barthe, with additional suggestions from Lori Gidopoulos. Even though the Scarecrow Halloween Costume is quite easy to make, it is still a very appealing costume. While the the Tin Man from Wizard of Oz Halloween Costume, which was submitted by the Fanning Family, requires quite a few purchases and some painting, it looks great. If your two kids want to trick or treat together, they may enjoy teaming up as the Scarecrow and the Tin Man. Other Easy-to-Make Halloween Costumes Share Lady Liberty: A Biography with your tweens or teens, and they may decide to be the Statue of Liberty for Halloween. Take a look at this photo of a No-Sew Lady Liberty Costume for ideas. It looks like you could just drape and pin old bed sheets to create the costume. The bulk of the work is in creating the paper mache crown, tablet and torch. However, if you can’t find sheets the right color, you might need to dye old white sheets or buy fabric. If your youngster loves flowers and gardens, share some Picture Books About Gardens and Gardening with her and then, create an Easy-to-Make Flower Garden Costume. It’s a colorful and unique Halloween costume, one that should brighten the day of everyone who sees your child dressed up as a flower garden. If you need still more suggestions, see Sherri Osborn’s Home-Made Halloween Costume Photo Galleries on the About Family Crafts site.

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Children's Books: What's Hot Now: Robert McCloskey

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Robert McCloskey Sep 30th 2011, 10:03 Robert McCloskey, the author and illustrator of a number of award winning children's picture books, occupies an important position in our family. My husband's family is from Maine. All of the children in the widespread family must be introduced to Maine even before they visit. This introduction takes place through McCloskey's children's picture books Blueberries for Sal and One Morning in Maine. The former highlights a favorite pastime, picking blueberries, and the latter focuses on daily life in the area of Maine my husband, Dennis, is from. As a child, he summered in South Brooksville, the village in which McCloskey's Sal and her family shop. When children and grandchildren visit Maine, their Maine relatives and friends always make sure they go home with one or more children's picture books by Robert McCloskey that are set in Maine. However, you don't have to be from Maine to enjoy McCloskey's Caldecott award winning Maine children's picture books. The captivating illustrations and stories are reason enough. McCloskey was able to capture the spirit of Maine because he and his family settled there after World War II. As a boy in Ohio, he was interested in music and inventing until high school when he decided on the artist's life. McCloskey won a scholarship to the Vesper George Art School in Boston and then went on to the National Academy of Design in New York. After making little headway as an artist, he began drawing and painting everyday life. His first book, Lentil, was followed by Make Way for Ducklings, which was awarded a Caldecott Medal in 1941 and has become a classic. Robert McCloskey once said, "It is just sort of an accident that I write books. I really think up stories in pictures and just fill in between the pictures with a sentence or a paragraph or a few pages of words." After moving to an island home in Maine, he wrote three books set in Maine that received Caldecott honors within a nine year period. Robert McCloskey died in 2003. Blueberries for Sal In 1949, this charming book was designated a Caldecott Honor Book. The two human characters in the story, little Sal and her mother, are said to be based on Robert McCloskey's wife, Margaret, and daughter, Sarah. When Sal and her mother climb Blueberry Hill to pick blueberries another mother and "child," a bear and her cub, are climbing up the other side of the hill to pick blueberries. The story of how "Little Bear and Little Sal's mother and Little Sal and Little Bear's mother were all mixed up with each other among the blueberries on Blueberry Hill" contains the perfect blend of humor and suspense for young children. McCloskey's black and white illustrations are full of movement and life. One Morning in Maine In this 1953 Caldecott Honor Book, Sal is several years older and about to lose her first tooth. Everything Sal does that day, from clamming with her father to going by boat to Buck's Harbor for supplies, is affected by her tooth. When Sal's tooth falls out and is lost, she consoles herself by wishing on a gull's feather in place of her lost tooth. By the time Sal, her father, and sister Jane, arrive in Buck's Harbor, Sal is eager to tell everyone that her tooth is out. This book provides a very interesting look at daily life for a family living on an island in Maine. Once again, McCloskey's black and white illustrations create a mood of activity and anticipation. Time of Wonder This book, the Caldecott Medal winner in 1958, is also set in Maine, but it is a decidedly different type of book. Time of Wonder was McCloskey's first picture book in full color. Beautiful watercolors of life on the islands in Penobscot Bay illustrate each page. Sunny weather, foggy weather, rainy weather, and a hurricane are all part of life on the islands. So, too, are boating, castle building, nature walks, and playing. The writing is lyrical and speaks very personally to the reader/listener, beginning with "Out on the islands that poke their rocky shore above the waters of Penobscot Bay, you can watch the time of the world go by, from minute to minute, hour to hour, from day to day, season to season." This is a wonderful book, one to be cherished and read, and read again by both children and adults. All of these books should be available at your public library. The publisher of Blueberries for Sal, One Morning in Maine, and Time of Wonder is Puffin, an imprint of Penguin Group (USA) Inc.

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Child Care: What's Hot Now: Potty Training and Daycare

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Potty Training and Daycare Sep 30th 2011, 10:03 Potty training a child who attends daycare or is under the occasional care of a caregiver other than a parent requires a team effort. Often, it is the very fact that a child is around other kids in underwear in a care setting that serves to motivate a young child to use the potty. Parents and providers should discuss and agree on the planned potty training process. A consistent approach and common encouragement techniques can minimize confusion of a child during this time, and help to set the environment for a successful transition to becoming a big kid! What should parents and providers discuss to help ensure a successful toilet training experience? Potty chair or no potty chair. Some children potty train using a kid-sized toilet. Others prefer to sit on the regular toilet with a potty seat on top. Parents should be sensitive to the needs of a child care provider, who is most likely watching other kids as well and who must keep hygiene, cleanliness and practicality as considerations to the training process as well. While it is not insurmountable to have different systems, having the same rules and same equipment certainly can be helpful for a child’s mastery of this process. Parents may even consider purchasing a potty chair (if the provider agrees this is a good idea) for their child’s use while in care that is identical to the one being used at home. Diapers vs. pull-ups vs. underwear. Opinions are varied about when and how long to use each of the above. Some parents swear by pull-ups, especially the ones that can be opened on the sides. Others prefer to bypass pull-ups altogether, and make the sole incentive as graduating from diapers into underwear. The argument is not which way is better; it is getting agreement on which route to take. What should a child in potty training wear at naptime? Even a mostly-trained child may have accidents at naptime. Opinions vary as to whether a child should have a diaper or pull-up on at naptime, or whether accidents should be allowed to happen to encourage a child to “feel” the outcome. Of course, providers may not be as patient for having to sanitize mats and send home blankets and pillows on a routine basis due to accidents occurring. Dressing in practical clothing is a must. Providers have lamented that parents sometimes do not take into consideration that a child in a bodysuit and overallsâ€"no matter how adorable they make lookâ€"is incorrectly clothed for potty training. And, many a parent has been alarmed to see their child running around in a long shirt and underwear during these toilet training days while in daycare. The compromise, of course, is practical clothing that can be quickly and easilyâ€"and the key word here is QUICKLYâ€"pulled down by a child independently in time to avoid an accident. Having hassle-free clothing is a key to a child’s self-confidence and independence during this process. And, parents, don’t forget! During this training time, please provide the caregiver with at least two sets of extra clothing and preferably a full package of underwear. Initially, a child may start to wet underwear on many occasions, and need to be changed. Rewards and consequences. This is a conversation that absolutely should occur so as to not confuse a child and cause in regression in the toilet training process. How is a child rewarded for going potty? Is a reward applied if a child tries? Is a diaper put back on if a child refuses? How are accidents handled? One provider praised a considerate mom for buying a huge supply of stickers, and for rewarding all the kids with one every time her child used the potty. Talk about positive peer reinforcement! The provider was more than happy to dole out the stickers, and was thankful that the parent understood that was an expense a provider could not do for every child. Do not expect a provider to add housekeeping chores in the schedule. In-home providers lament that parents sometimes believe that a caregiver should launder a child’s clothing when accidents occur or other not-so-desirable tasks during a child's potty training transition. Providers have a full day planned, and while they are more than happy to assist with potty training, reasonable expectations about extra effort should be made and clear on both sides. Consider the timing. In general, don't begin toilet training a child right after a big change such moving, divorce or remarriage, birth of a new sibling, a change in caregivers or daycare arrangements, or before a big holiday or event. Also, be sure you're comfortable with sticking with a schedule and routine once training begins. Celebrate together! A child who becomes toilet training is a major achievement both for the child as well as the caregiver team! A great partnership and unified goals, consistency and open communication will help to achieve the desired results.

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Child Care: What's Hot Now: Child Manners

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Child Manners Sep 30th 2011, 10:03 The holidays aren't the only time a kid should demonstrate good child manners--but special occasions, parties or family gatherings are when parents most want their children to be acting their best. For children to exhibit respect, tolerance, and social graces at these special times, however, means those important lessons must have already been learned. Teachers and senior adults agree that today's children demonstrate less child manners than in previous generations, which is not a compliment for today's youth. Children who grow up without learning respect and tolerance, as well as how to act in social settings, are at greater risk of not being successful as adults in work settings and at social events. Parents, teachers and providers can team together to start teaching and reinforcing appropriate child manners now and in time to impress even Great-Grandpa at the next family dinner. How? Here are some tips for teaching kids social graces.

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Child Care: What's Hot Now: Kid Chores and Family

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Kid Chores and Family Sep 29th 2011, 10:02 Giving kids chores can help foster responsibility and a sense of involvement and self-worth. Chores lists can also breed contempt or at least a source for argument if not handled correctly. Chores should be handled as necessary contributions to the family. After all, if the dishes were never washed, what would ultimately happen? (If your kids answer "paper plates," then you might have some work to do here.) Chores may not be traditional "fun," but they can create a sense of "family" as well helping to learn that keeping a household running involves effort and teamwork. Parents should have their children do chores, but do so in a way so that they don't become a bone of contention and foster arguments or pit parents against kids. Here are tips for making chore assignments. Involve your kids with the establishment of chores. Don't just assign kids to tasks; present them with choices and ask their thoughts about where they think they can make the great contribution to the family. If the end goal is to teach responsibility and family contributions, then let them be part of the process. Maybe your kid balks about taking out the trash, but actually enjoys setting the table and vacuuming. Parents can lay out tasks matter-of-factly and then dole out the jobs. They then can be rotated if everyone wants the same ones, or agreed to if an equitable division can be worked out. Just like adults, kids may react better to having job duties if they feel their preferences are at least considered and they have some level of control over the decisions made. Establish quality standards up front. As most parents know, kid chores are often not performed at the same quality standard if they done by an adult. But the lesson here is two-fold: 1) the task is something that needs to be done in the house; and 2) the repetition of the chore should help to improve the quality of work by the child with time. A kid may not rake leaves effectively the first time around, but each time should improve. Parents must establish quality standards so that kids don't just do "minimum effort" and develop the attitude of a slack job being good enough. Quality standards should be coupled with consequences, which is the next point. Set consequences as a team. A family is a team, and all individuals (as age allows) should pitch it to duties. If someone fails to do a job, it either doesn't get done and affects everyone else, or it can cause a disruption or concern in the household. Children need to first be told why a chore is important and why it must be done. Once a kid understands its importance, he or she should be involved with the establishment of a consequence if it's not done. If a kid chore is keeping his bedroom clean, then a consequence can be as simple as no playing with friends period at their house or yours until it is clean. But parents should be careful to set specific guidelines as to what constitutes a clean room so that there is no confusion or misunderstanding, which breeds unnecessary chore standoffs or issues. Don't give in to chore battles. It's inevitable that a child will attempt to barter or negotiate why a chore doesn't need to be done--either at all or at the designated time. Parents often err by giving in once or twice only to find their authority is then undermined. Once the expectations have been set, there is really nothing more to discuss. Most likely your kids will spend more time trying to argue about it than it would have to have simply done the chore; a fact you can always remind them of. The key is to not become mad or upset; simply ignore or tune-out grumbles and don't give in. Spouses must be unified in chore assignments. Mom and dad need to be unified in chore assignments; the same holds true with grandparents or other adults who may be living in the home. If a chore is assigned, then it must be done. Parents must stay united that they all support the chore's assignment. Kids tune in when one parent finds making a bed every morning a "must do" task while another thinks it is no big deal. The lesson from this is that adults who will be involved in chore supervision or consequences should privately discuss their own expectations and ground rules and agree to consistently administer the parameters about the chores. Stress that chores are part of the family and rewards are not to be expected. While giving an allowance can be tied to be a contributing member of a household (and with that the fulfillment of certain tasks and chores), kids should not be rewarded for doing chores that are part of family business. Kids don't need and don't deserve a quarter, for example, every time they take out the trash. After all, what lesson does that teach them? Allow kids an opportunity to express their thoughts about chores. Don't punish kids for talking about chores; discussions on the tasks can be good if handled in an appropriate fashion. Keep it positive and to the point.

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Child Care: What's Hot Now: Don't Expect Mary Poppins

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Don't Expect Mary Poppins Sep 29th 2011, 10:02 Employing a nanny, au pair, or long-term babysitter in your home is an increasingly popular choice with families. No longer are nannies just for the rich and famous; many middle-class families are choosing this type of care option for greater convenience, safety, and job flexibility. After all, if your child is safely at home with a responsible adult care provider, getting stuck in traffic or working late may lessen a family's stress. Parents should screen potential caregivers carefully, ask lots of questions, and check resources. Here are things to consider when making this important family decision. Determine What Type of Caregiver You Seek There are differences between a nanny, au pair, mother's helper, babysitter, or a private caregiver, so the first thing you should do is research what type of care it is you prefer. Pay, training, living arrangements, hours involved, and transportation requirements may greatly influence what type of professional care provider you seek. Choosing Child Care Child Care Options Nannies Serve As Extended Member of the Family Prioritize Your Requirements vs. Wants What exactly do you want in a child care provider? While it's easy to imagine that the Mary Poppins perfect person you hire will be able to do it all, keep in mind that if YOU can't be Wonder Woman or Super Parent, neither will your nanny! Do write a list of "must have" requirements and then create a second column of "like to have" duties. A person who can fulfill all your requirements and be able to do the bonus duties like tutoring or driving a child to soccer practice as well might be the fit that's right for you, your child, and your family! Mother's Helper vs. Babysitter? Child Care Poll Site Determine Appropriate Pay Once you fine-tune your list of requirements, determine what you are able to pay. Depending on how realistic you are, you may have to temper your list of requirements slightly. Nannies who have child care training and experience will typically command the most pay, and their terms may be very stringent. Do you want a live-in or live-out person? Would you consider an au pair, who is often less experienced and from another country and requires room and board, but can be a wonderful fit for certain families? Do you prefer a babysitter, who might require an hourly fee of $10-$15 an hour? Is Cost of Child Care Too High? Getting Employers to Help Support Child Care Child and Child Care Credit for Taxes Ask Your Family, Friends for Names and Resources The best way to find your dream child care provider for your kids is to ask around and find out who has had the best experiences or how they found their nanny. If you know someone who has had good luck using an au pair, ask to talk about the pros and cons to see if a similar situation might work for your family. By that same token, ask about bad experiences as well and do your best to avoid any similar incidents! How Can I Find Good Quality In-Home Child Care? Child Care Provider Credentials Screen Applicants Carefully There is no such thing as being too careful when screening a potential child care provider. After all, this is a stranger with whom you're entrusting your children. It's a scary thought in some ways, but when the relationship works, it provides for a safe and nurturing environment for kids and more flexibility for parents. In the end, it's often your instinct (gut feeling) that will guide you to a provider who is not only qualified, but is the right fit with your family. Questions to Ask A Potential Babysitter Screening a Potential Child Care Provider Be Sure To Ask About These Questions Don't Expect the Impossible While movies have glamorized the profession of nannies, coupled with the popular reality shows that show nannies transforming dysfunctional families and monstrous kids into well-behaved and loving children, your life isn't a movie. If you can't juggle three kids, their school and after-school schedules, laundry and a well-maintained house, then don't expect the same of a nanny. Yes, you pay them, but the first priority is always about the kids. Be sure to keep your expectations realistic to avoid the "perpetually disappointed" routine. Signs Your Babysitter is the Best Warning Signs of a Bad Babysitter Find Quality Care Quickly Don't Feel Guilty and Be Sure Relationship Works Guilt about leaving kids while at work is an emotion that working parents simply need to get over. If you let it get to you, then most likely, you'll transfer that misery over to your kids and your child care provider as well. Then, everyone will be unhappy. Keep the perspective that a child care provider is not there to replace a parent; accept that you work and your kids will be in good hands while away. By the same token, you are in charge and make sure that you are happy and comfortable with any child care arrangement ... or change it so that you are! Communicating With Your Childcare Provider When There Are Concerns With Your Child's Care Top 10 Questions to Ask a Prospective Child Care Provider Use Caution With Playgroups, Babysitter Co-ops, Occasional Care Even if you're active in a playgroup or share babysitting duties among neighbors and family members, you should be as careful with safety and comfort level with occasional child care as you are with a professional provider. Kids need constant, quality supervision whether it is with a teenager, next-door-neighbor, or friend. It's always best to have a conversation upfront about your parenting styles and supervision expectations before something bad happens, or you're unhappy with a situation. The key is to communicate! What Is A Babysitter Co-op? Getting the Scoop on Playgroups Babysitters Wanted

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Children's Books: What's Hot Now: John Henry

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John Henry Sep 29th 2011, 10:02 In 1990, John Henry, a children's picture book written by Julius Lester and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney, was recognized as a Caldecott Honor Book. To be named a Cadecott Medal or Honor Book recipient is a prestigious honor. Caldecott honors are awarded annually by the Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association, to recognize artists for excellence in American children's picture book illustration. In evaluating picture books, the Caldecott Awards committee looks at not only the excellence of the artwork but at how it interprets the story - character, setting, theme, and conflict - in terms of the audience of children. Julius Lester's book, John Henry is based on the African American folk ballad "John Henry." While much has been written about John Henry: Who Was John Henry? John Henry, whether he did or did not exist is still shrouded in mystery. However, what the John Henry of song and story represents is very clear in both the words and images in this book. Artist Jerry Pinkney saw John Henry as "... a free man, whose strength and valor bring him fame. He was a strong folk hero for African Americans, a symbol of all the working men who made a major contribution to the building of the roads and railroads in the mountains of West Virginia - a dangerous job for which many paid with their lives." (Penguin Putnam Inc.) John Henry: The Story Julius Lester's story of John Henry begins with his birth and immediate growth to a size so large that "his head and shoulders busted through the roof which was over the porch" of his family's home in 1870s West Virginia. The tall tale continues with the saga of how John Henry grew big, strong, fast, and fearless. His crowning achievement, and the cause of his death, was winning a competition to break through a mountain so the railroad could go through. On one side of the mountain, the railroad boss used a steam drill. On the other side, John Henry used his hammers and amazing strength. When John Henry and the stream drill met inside the mountain, the boss was amazed to find that while he had come only a quarter of a mile, John Henry had come a mile and a quarter. John Henry walked out of the tunnel to the cheers of the other workers, then fell to the ground and died. Everyone who was there came to the realization that "Dying ain't important. Everybody does that. What matters is how well you do your living." John Henry: A Memorable Book There are several things that make this book memorable. The first is Julius Lester's use of imagery and personification. For example, when describing what happened when John Henry laughed loudly, Lester reported, "…the sun got scared. It scurried from behind the moon's skirts and went to bed, which is where it should've been anyway." The second is the artwork of Jerry Pinkney. While Pinkney used his usual pencil, colored pencils, and watercolors, his use of shading is exaggerated in the illustrations, to good effect. This creates almost a transparent effect in some scenes, creating the illusion of looking into the far distant past. It's as if you can see what is going on, but you also know that it all has a bigger, broader meaning than just the scene depicted. The third is the extra information provided. It helps to set the context for the story. Included are brief author and illustrator biographies, a note from the author about his collaboration with Pinkney, and an overview of the origin of the John Henry story and the sources used by Lester. This information will be particularly helpful to teachers and librarians as they share the book with students. John Henry: My Recommendation I recommend this children's picture book for the child who is 4-9 years old. (Puffin Books, Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, 1994. ISBN: 0803716060)

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Children's Books: What's Hot Now: Potty Training Books

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Potty Training Books Sep 29th 2011, 10:02 When I first started reading children’s potty and toilet training books, I wondered if I would find any books that would be entertaining enough to interest a toddler and still get the point across that using a potty is a good thing. I am happy to report that along with overly didactic and boring potty books, there are some good children’s books about potty training. It takes a lot more than a book to get a child toilet trained, but these should make training more fun for you and your toddler. 1. Everyone Poops Kids love this book. Written and illustrated by Taro Gomi, it was originally published in Japan in 1977. With striking illustrations and humorous text, Gomi emphasizes that while animals, from snakes and elephants to children and adults, may poop in different places and ways, everyone poops. Kids think it’s funny to see all the creatures poop, but the book also helps them to realize it is natural to poop and appropriate for young children to use a potty. (Kane/Miller, 2001. ISBN: 192913214X) 2. Lift the Lid, Use the Potty This lift-the-flap story by Annie Ingle is amusing. Little Bunny’s sister is still in diapers, but now Little Bunny is using the potty. Once he is potty trained, he receives a gift of “big-kids” underpants. The changing expressions on the faces of Little Bunny and his mother when you lift the flaps as she is changing a dirty diaper are priceless. The book has lots of flap to lift, and it also comes with a set of stickers to use in potty training. (Random House, 2001. 037581146X) 3. On Your Potty! When Bartholomew, an appealing little bear, wakes up, big bear George wants him to use the potty. The little bear refuses, saying, “Nah!” louder and louder until George shouts, “On Your Potty!” When Bartholomew sits on the potty, nothing happens, so George sends him out to play. While playing, Bartholomew is reminded of George’s words and gets on the potty just in time. George rewards him with a big hug in this engaging picture book by Virginia Miller. (Candlewick Press, 1998.ISBN: 0763606944) 4. Ruby’s Potty The rhyming text by Paul Rogers and the artwork by Emma Rogers create a mood of fun. Ruby, a little mouse, has a potty, but she uses it to carry things, plays with it in the sandbox, and slides it down the slide. When she needs it, she doesn’t know where it is and has an accident. She doesn’t want to wear diapers, so Ruby finally starts sitting on the potty. It takes time, but she’s successful, to her delight. (Dutton Children’s Books, 2001. ISBN: 0525468161) 5. P.J. & Puppy Toddler P.J. has a new potty and a new puppy. P.J. and Puppy play together, nap together, and experience accidents and success together, with potty training for P.J. and paper training for Puppy. Through it all, P.J.’s mom is a calm and helpful influence, cleaning up after accidents, cheering success. Written and illustrated by Cathryn Falwell, this book will particularly appeal to the young child who loves dogs. (Clarion Books, 1997. ISBN: 0395569184) Do potty books make toilet training easier? What's been your experience with using children's potty books to encourage your child to use the potty? Did they help? Does your child have a favorite potty books? Join the discussion on the About Children's Books Forum.

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Children's Books: Time for Halloween Costumes Based on Kids' Books

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Time for Halloween Costumes Based on Kids' Books Sep 29th 2011, 00:01 It's almost October and time to begin thinking about easy-to-make Halloween costumes for your kids. Get ideas and inspiration from these Halloween costumes based on children's books. These easy-to-make, generally low-cost, homemade Halloween costumes include costumes related to these children's books: Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, Lady Liberty, Pippi Longstocking and Where the Wild Things Are, among others. Do you have ideas for Halloween costumes based on children's books? If so, share your ideas at Readers Respond. (Photograph of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom costume submitted to by Ann Stafford )

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Children's Books: Babies, Books and Reading Aloud

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Babies, Books and Reading Aloud Sep 28th 2011, 00:01 You're expecting a baby or you have a new baby. You're anxious to raise a child who loves to read, but you have a lot of questions. Hopefully, you will find a lot of the answers in my article 10 Tips for New Parents: Babies, Books and Reading Aloud. I have included an video for you to watch: Making Reading to Young Children Fun, book reviews of three books for parents, tips on reading aloud, recommended Mother Goose board books and general information that should prove helpful from now until your baby becomes a child who is an enthusiastic reader. I have also included some parents' own stories about introducing books to their babies and toddlers. (Cover art courtesy of Scholastic)

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Children's Books: October Calendar of Children's Books

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October Calendar of Children's Books Sep 28th 2011, 00:01 My October 2011 Calendar of Children's Books includes children's books about bullies and bullying for National Bullying Prevention Month, books related to Latino and Hispanic heritage for National Hispanic Heritage Month, information about Teen Read Week and books for teens, Halloween picture books and much more. What is your favorite Halloween book for kids and why do you like it? Share your favorite by posting a message at Readers Respond. (Cover art courtesy of Marshall Cavendish)

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Children's Music: What's Hot Now: Top 10 Hannah Montana Songs

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Top 10 Hannah Montana Songs Sep 28th 2011, 10:07 Whether you're a rabid Hannah Montana fan or a dedicated hater, whether her music is a guilty pleasure or if you're a curious onlooker, this list of the Top 10 Hannah Montana songs is just what you need. The spotlight is on fun, bubblegummy Hannah tunes, not the more serious songs credited to Miley Cyrus. These songs were written by people who have penned tunes for High School Musical Soundtracks, the Camp Rock Soundtrack, the Cheetah Girls TV show, Kelly Clarkson, The Jonas Brothers, Hilary Duff, Aly & A.J., Vanessa Hudgens...you get the idea. Crank it up and have fun with this list of the best Hannah Montana songs! 10. "You and Me Together" from 'Hannah Montana 2' Courtesy Walt Disney Records This simple pop rock tune celebrates the power of friendship. "You and Me Together" was featured on Season 2, Episode 5 of Hannah Montana, "I Am Hannah, Hear Me Croak," which first aired on the Disney Channel on April 27, 2007. (Written by Jamie Houston) Download or listen to a sample of "You and Me Together" 9. "What's Not to Like" from 'Hannah Montana: The Movie' Courtesy Walt Disney Records Hmmm, is this bubbly, buzzing pop song describing the perks of being a rock star or the privileged lifestyle of a spoiled brat? "What's Not to Like" is exclusive to the Hannah Montana: The Movie Soundtrack, never having been released as a single. (Written by Matthew Gerrard and Robbie Nevil) Download or listen to a sample of "What's Not to Like" Read Review 8. "Let's Get Crazy" from 'Hannah Montana: The Movie' Courtesy Walt Disney Records This thumping, synthpop techno track, reminiscent of Gwen Stefani's solo work, is a simple invitation to get out on the floor and dance. "Let's Get Crazy" was released to Radio Disney on January 19, 2009 as promotion for Hannah Montana: The Movie and its soundtrack. The song reached #57 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and #26 on the Canadian Hot 100. (Written by Colleen Fitzpatrick {aka Vitamin C}, Michael Kotch, Dave Derby, Michael “Smidi” Smith, Stefanie Ridel, Mim Nervo and Liv Nervo) Download or listen to a sample of "Let's Get Crazy" Read Review 7. "He Could Be the One" from 'Hannah Montana 3' Courtesy Walt Disney Records This Shania Twain-influenced tune about a special crush, co-written by American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi, could be a hit on modern country radio! In fact, this sixth single from Hannah Montana 3 peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. "He Could Be the One" was released June 12, 2009, and was featured on Episode 18 of the same name during the third season of Hannah Montana. (Written by Kara DioGuardi and Mitch Allan) Download or listen to a sample of "He Could Be the One" Read Review 6. "Life's What You Make It" from 'Hannah Montana 2' Courtesy Walt Disney Records A driving New Wave ditty implores listeners to take the initiative to make life rock! "Life's What You Make It" peaked at number 25 on the U.S Billboard Hot 100 in July 2007, and was first featured on Season 2, Episode 5 of Hannah Montana, "I Am Hannah, Hear Me Croak." (Written by Matthew Gerrard and Robbie Nevil) Download or listen to a sample of "Life's What You Make It" 5. "The Best of Both Worlds" from 'Hannah Montana' Courtesy Walt Disney Records This bubbly modern rock song describes the difficulty and joy of trying to balance stardom and home life. "The Best of Both Worlds" reached number 92 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 on August 12, 2006, and peaked at number 17 in the Irish Singles Chart the same year. (Written by Matthew Gerrard and Robbie Nevil) Download or listen to a sample of "The Best of Both Worlds" 4. "Just Like You" from 'Hannah Montana' Courtesy Walt Disney Records On this guitar-driven powerpop tune, Hannah Montana claims that pop stars like herself are no different from the pals she hangs out with. "Just Like You" was first featured on Season 1, Episode 2 of Hannah Montana, "Miley Get Your Gum," on March 31, 2006. The song hit number 99 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 that same year. (Written by Adam Watts and Andy Dodd) Download or listen to a sample of "Just Like You" 3. "You'll Always Find Your Way Back Home" from 'Hannah Montana: The Movie' Courtesy Walt Disney Records This tune is given a slight country twang, and conveys the sentiment that even pop stars find safe haven in their home town. "You'll Always Find Your Way Back Home," co-written by country music star Taylor Swift, reached number 81 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and number 76 on the Canadian Hot 100 during May 2009. (Written by Taylor Swift and Martin Johnson) Download or listen to a sample of "You'll Always Find Your Way Back Home" Read Review 2. "Let's Do This" from 'Hannah Montana: The Movie' Courtesy Walt Disney Records This full-on rocker, sporting a definite Shania Twain vibe, invites fans to enjoy the excitement of a live concert. Although "Let's Do This" was first featured on the Hannah Montana: The Movie Soundtrack, the tune was later included on the Hannah Montana 3 Soundtrack and released as a single in late 2008, reaching number 128 on the Billboard Charts. (Written by Derek George, Tim Owens, Adam Tefteller, and Ali Theodore) Download or listen to a sample of "Let's Do This" Read Review 1. "It's All Right Here" from 'Hannah Montana 3' Courtesy Walt Disney Records A pounding floor tom and chugging guitars encourage listeners to live in the now, because everything you need is right in front of you. "It's All Right Here" was released November 7, 2008, in conjunction with the Season 3 premiere of Hannah Montana. The tune reached number 124 on the Billboard Charts, and was featured on Episode 19 of Season 3, "Super(stitious) Girl," which aired July 17, 2009. (Written by Antonina Armato and Tim James) Download or listen to a sample of "It's All Right Here" Read Review

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