Tag: parenting
Discussion: My Expansion
David:
Hey everyone, welcome back for another discussion of a great book. Today, we will examine My Expansion, a children’s book creating quite a buzz. 
Taylor:
It is. It has these beautiful illustrations, and the story is very sweet.
David:
Yeah, and we actually have quite a bit of material on this one. We’ve got some interviews with the author and illustrator, some early reviews, and even an early copy of the book so we can dive in and see what makes it tick.
Taylor:
Definitely a lot to unpack.
David:
So let’s start with the author, Nancy Manet. Now what’s interesting here is that she’s actually a singer-songwriter. This is her first foray into children’s literature.
Taylor:
You can definitely tell. Her background in music shines through in the writing. The language is very lyrical and very engaging.
David:
Yeah, it’s almost poetic. So, that adds a unique flavor to the book.
Taylor:
Definitely.
David:
Now, on the visual side, we have Michelle Buvala. Her illustrations are striking. They add a whole other dimension to the story.
Taylor:
Yeah, she works with hand-cut watercolors, pens, and ink. And she even uses this really unique technique called watercolor cut paper collage.
Benefits of Reading Aloud With Your Child
“Why should I read with my kids?”
Reading is often considered a solitary activity, but when done together, it can provide several benefits, especially to children. Reading aloud with your child is an activity that may seem simple, but it packs a punch in terms of its benefits. Here’s why you should read aloud with your child as often as possible.
1. Enhances Vocabulary
When you read aloud to your child, you expose them to a wide range of words and phrases that they might not encounter in everyday conversations. This helps to expand their vocabulary and improve their language skills.
2. Develops Listening Skills
Listening to someone read aloud helps your child to develop their listening skills and attention span. They learn to focus on the story and understand the sequence of events, a crucial skill for their overall cognitive development.
3. Fosters Bonding
Reading together is an intimate activity that can help to strengthen your bond with your child. It gives you both a chance to spend quality time together, discuss the story, share thoughts, and create lasting memories.
4. Encourages Imagination
Books are a great source of stimulation for a child’s imagination. When you read aloud, you help to bring the story to life in your child’s mind, encouraging them to visualize the events and characters in their own unique way.
5. Instills a Love for Reading
By making reading a regular activity, your child is more likely to develop a love for books. This can set the foundation for a lifelong habit of reading, which can benefit them in countless ways as they grow older.
So, let’s get reading! 
Do the best you can. This isn’t a contest for “best parent.” Do what you can when you can. Reading aloud with your child is not just about passing the time or keeping them entertained. It’s a powerful tool that can contribute significantly to their overall development. So, take some time from your busy schedule and read aloud with your child as often as possible. You’ll be surprised at the positive impact it can have!
Children’s Book Week May 2023
It’s Children’s Book Week! 📚 Coloring Page Alert! Freebies below for home and classroom activities.↓
Reading books with your kids can be a great way to spend quality time together and to help your kids develop important skills:
• Improved language and communication
• Improved problem-solving
• Enhanced focus and concentration
• Increased memory and creativity
Plus, it’s just plain fun! 😃
Oh, the free coloring page? Here it is!
Free bookmarks to print & color? Go right here!
We love the hashtag #ReadBooksSparkChange. What better way to kick that off than when of our bears from “My Expansion” by @nanmanet? This book is about sparking change in the relationship between Big Bear and the cub. From learning and growing as a bear family in the book to finding more expansion by reading great books, we think this art by illustrator @themesquitetreestudio is perfect.
Need even more free pages for classroom activities? Go here for the full list.
