June 2011
Boston Globe-Horn Book Awards for Children's Books: Non-Fiction Winners Jun 30, 2011
The 2011 Boston Globe - Horn Book Awards for Excellence in Children's Literature were recently announced. Steve Sheinkin's 'The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery' is the winner in the non-fiction category....
Engaging Read Alouds: The Little Red Hen Jun 29, 2011
'The Little Red Hen' is a classic folk tale, possibly of Russian origin, that's commonly available as a picture book for children. The most popular version in the U.S. is the Little Golden Book edition, originally published in 1954. The simple...
Laugh-Out-Loud Read-Alouds: Funny Books for Parents to Read to Kids Jun 28, 2011
There's no reason that reading with your child needs to be serious. There are numerous read-aloud books that are laugh-out-loud funny. The following list includes ten books that are sure to crack up your child, and probably you, too!
Hands-On Projects for Kids and Parents to do Together Jun 27, 2011
Even when school isn't in session, your child can still be learning. There are myriad hands-on projects you can do at home with your kids to continue their education. These include activities in numerous academic disciplines, such as science,...
Supermarket Math: Fun Activities for Middle Schoolers Jun 24, 2011
As your child gets older, it's helpful to reinforce the math knowledge that is gained in school. A trip to the supermarket can be a terrific place to practice these math concepts through games and activities. This list includes ten activities...
Classic Picture Books to Share with Your Child: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs Jun 23, 2011
'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs' was written by Judi Barrett and illustrated by her husband, Ron Barrett. The picture book was first published in 1978. The whimsical story and intricate drawings make the book an excellent choice for sharing...
Supermarket Math: Fun Activities for Young Children Jun 22, 2011
The supermarket is a wonderful place to teach young children about math. There are numerous opportunities to use the routine actions of shopping for groceries to reinforce concepts your child is learning in school. The list presented here...
Read Aloud Stories: Ten Apples Up on Top Jun 21, 2011
'Ten Apples Up on Top!' is a 1961 rhyming picture book written by Dr. Seuss, under the pen name Theo. LeSieg, and illustrated by Roy McKie. The story follows three animals who stack apples on their heads, trying to outdo each other.
Reading Around the World: 10 Books for Kids with International Stories Jun 20, 2011
By reading books with an international focus, your child can gain a deeper understanding of the diverse and complex world outside of the United States. The following list includes stories set throughout the world, including the jungles of Peru,...
Goodbye Vampire: 10 Paranormal Books for Teens without Vampires Jun 17, 2011
Despite the ubiquity of vampire-themed teen books, there are numerous novels that take paranormal themes in other directions. The following list includes ten young adult novels that involve werewolves, time travel, magic and other supernatural...
Learn About the Great Depression Through Books: 10 Great Books for Kids Jun 16, 2011
The difficulties faced by most Americans during the Great Depression can seem unfathomably foreign to kids today. However, fiction books that are both written for younger readers and explore the topic through characters their age make the time...
Not Your Ordinary Vampire: 10 Out-of-the-Ordinary Vampire Books for Teens Jun 15, 2011
Just like real teenagers, not all teen vampires have chiseled looks and serious romances. The following list includes a variety of unusual young adult vampire stories, including more than a few vampires who find themselves perpetually stuck at...
History Reimagined: Great Historical Fantasy for Kids Jun 14, 2011
Historical fantasies are often fun and engaging ways to learn about history. Some add magic or supernatural creatures to an historic setting. Others allow contemporary teenagers to be whisked through time and experience other eras through their...
10 Great Books for Kids Who Love Sports Jun 13, 2011
The passion many kids feel for sports translates well onto the page. There are countless books aimed at children and teens that center around athletes competing in basketball, football, soccer and numerous other sports. This list includes ten...
Local Field Trip: Police Station Jun 10, 2011
A police station is a great place to teach your child about safety issues and the work police officers do to protect your local community. There are myriad teaching opportunities at a police station, as described below.
Dozin' with the Dinos at the Field Museum Jun 09, 2011
Do your kids wonder if Sue the T-rex comes to life at night just like in the movies? Find out for yourself by having an all-night family slumber party at Chicago's Field Museum.
Create Your Own E-book Jun 08, 2011
Encourage your young author by publishing his or her own digital story book. A number of kid-friendly e-book apps can be downloaded to your phone or iPad so you can publish on-the-go this summer vacation.
Living with Chimps: Inspiring Storybooks about Jane Goodall Jun 07, 2011
Parents who appreciate the efforts of conservationist and chimp researcher Jane Goodall will be delighted to share two new books with their kids. Goodall's biography as told through colorful pictures and easy-to-read text is enough to awaken...
From The Sound of Music to Story Time: Children's Books by Julie Andrews Jun 06, 2011
Entertainer Julie Andrews (Edwards) has co-authored over 23 children's books with her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton. The Julie Andrews Collection not only appeals to kids of all ages but also to the entire family.
Reading to the Beat: Books for Teens that Celebrate Music Jun 03, 2011
Young adult literature is full of novels that celebrate music, whether your teen is interested in classical, rock, hip-hop or any other genre. In novels such as those discussed here, teens discover the power of music, which can bring people...
Inspired by Shakespeare: Books for Kids that Channel the Bard Jun 03, 2011
Many kids struggle with the language of Shakespeare's plays, yet the rich world of the Bard is made accessible through many young adult novels that are inspired by Shakespeare's life and works. This list includes ten novels that provide an easy...
Fun Field Trips for Kids Jun 01, 2011
Field trips can provide a terrific learning opportunity for kids. While there are many great sites to see throughout the United States, there are also worthwhile places to visit more locally. The following list includes a mix of field trips to...