“One mistake does not define you, Julian. Do you understand me? You must simply act better next time!” Great discussion material for elementary aged kiddos and older! And the story is out in a movie. If yours are sensitive about seeing the visual images, I would suggest reading this...
Look for the Lesson! Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Super Guide! The Read Aloud Handbook
Over and over and over, I recommend this book to parents. The Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease. It shares summaries of books by age and interest and particularly books that are great to read aloud TOGETHER. Reading aloud gives opportunities to teach many things — vocabulary, values, sequencing, and...
Vocabulary and Multiple Meanings
Sometimes 5-year-olds share the most precious things! Today I was reminded of this conversation: Lynn: Do you have any pets? Little One: No, but my aunt has a pet llama. Lynn: Really? Does the llama have a name? Little One: It’s DOLLY! In the same conversation, this little one...
Amy Wright, 2017 CNN Hero of The Year
In 2016, Amy Wright opened Bitty & Beau’s Coffee Shop — named after two of her children — in Wilmington, NC. When I was there, I SAW a gathering place, large meeting rooms which could be reserved, small tables for visiting, and a welcoming open space. What I FELT...
Creating Vocabulary
I love hearing little ones about this size invent their own words! As I was listening the other day, one told me, “We are CONVERSATING!” Makes me smile just thinking about it!
Direct Experience helps with Language Development
It’s possible to get up close and personal with many animals at a local zoo. What a treat for Little Ones! This shot taken through the glass at the Dallas Zoo.
Narrate! Helps with language development!
Here’s an example. As this little guy crawled through the tunnel, I said each time, “You’re crawling THROUGH the tunnel!” Though he’s too young to say the words himself, the thought has been planted. It takes much less energy for the adult to sit and be silent...
Language! It’s EVERYWHERE!
Language! It’s everywhere … including this everyday occurrence in homes with little ones. Coming to mind are these words: CHANGE, TRADE, SWITCH, SLIDE, OTHER, BIGGER, SMALLER, BETWEEN. Try teaching this WITHOUT language! (I so love these little feet and the little lady who wears these shoes!)
Ear Infections, Tubes, and Language Development
Folks who have worked with me know that I am very proactive about ear infections and ear ventilation tubes. This chart shows the frequencies and decibels involved in speech sound production as well as environmental sounds. The speech sounds are in the yellow area. Continual ear infections can sure...
Time for Direct Experience
Time for exploring outside! There are amazing creatures to be found! This guy was HUGE!
New Vocabulary
Once in a while, new vocabulary smacks you right in the face!
Thank you, Role Model!
Yesterday, a young 5 year old worked on one of his sounds using “thank you”. We practiced his response, focusing on his sound. In the middle of the sequence, he grinned broadly and said, “Thank you, Role Model”! Never had a little one say that to me before, especially...