Just like Junie B.

Yup, it's true! Julie T. is a Graduation Girl!!!

One of THOSE Days

Unfortunately I’ve had too many of “those” days lately…

Clever children’s author Amy Krouse Rosenthal must sympathize with people like me. One of Those Days is a book many kids and adults can relate to. Some of the days mentioned ring way too true in my life:

Nobody’s Listening To You Day~This doesn’t work very well if you’re a teacher.
Keep Spilling Stuff Day~I’ve had this problem most of my life. Childhood nickname: Miss Piggy. My cousin actually invented a disease called Julieitis when you can’t stop spilling stuff on yourself.
Can’t Afford It Day~I guess I should have thought of this before I became and married a teacher.
Can’t Find Stuff Day~If you saw my house right now, you’d understand.
Sad for No Reason Day~Some days I have a reason, others not really. Quite puzzling and frustrating, but good to know I’m not the only one.

The message of this book is a reminder everyone needs to hear every now and then. It is simple and refreshing~nighttime brings an end to the day and in the morning you get a brand new day!

Now You're Reading!

I just cannot keep this a secret! Thanks to a fabulous library media mentor of mine, I've discovered a terrific resource for anyone who wants to encourage kids to read. This website is full of ideas and resources for parents, teachers, librarians and fun for kids alike:

http://www.bookitprogram.com/default.asp

Last year the Pizza Hut Book It! program celebrated 25 years. I remember as a child earning a free individual pan pizza for reading. Though I loved to read, it still was a fun reward for the accomplishment. Thousands of children over the years have been encouraged by this program.

The Book It! program has now outdone itself by creating the R.E.D. Zone, standing for READ EVERY DAY. The purpose is to encourage parents to read aloud to their small children 20 minutes everyday. Pizza Hut and I are on the same page! The resources and activities on this page are outstanding. Check it out!

An Easter…TURTLE?

Wednesday is probably my favorite day in the library. (0kay, Friday is up there too!) On Wednesdays, my little preschool friends come to visit me for story time and checkout. Not only am I blessed with one group of small visitors, but two!

For many children, this is the beginning of their experience with literacy. I take pride in choosing the “perfect” preschool read alouds, hoping to spark a love of books and the library.

The first selection I chose for this week is a vibrant counting book starring none other than familiar friends, Max and Ruby. Max Counts His Chickens is a cute tale of Max and Ruby hunting for their marshmallow chicks the Easter Bunny left, but poor Max can’t seem to find his. Sister Ruby, of course, has no trouble at all. In the end, Max’s chickens arrive and all is well.

I admit…I LOVE Marshmallow Peeps so the brightly colored chicks in the story are appealing to my eyes. It also gave my preschool friends practice counting. The numbers one to ten are written very big in the corner of the pages, helping with number recognition. Silly Max says his numbers in the wrong order while counting the chicks flying through the mail slot. This created a lot of laughter and the chance to practice numbers one more time.

The second book I read was Easter Mice. The story is more in the pictures than the words, which could be a challenge with a group of preschoolers. However, I carefully asked questions giving the kiddos a chance to think critically about what was happening. The true surprise is in the end when the sad mouse who played instead of hunting eggs, finds an egg that hatches. What comes out of the egg? An Easter Turtle, of course. You can imagine the roar of laughter. No one was expecting that!

Happy Reading!

Happiness is...a Warm Puppy

My nine year old is a self-proclaimed “dog freak.” For months, she had been asking for a dog to call her own. Apparently, the family dog, Daisy, wasn’t cuttin’ it for her. Jetta’s prerequisites for her dog: cuddly, playful and female, so she could name her Bella (from Twilight, of course).

After several weeks of searching, my dear husband came across the perfect pooch, taking it as a sign she was already named Bella. Bella is a Chorkie. Yup, you heard me right. She is a mix of Chihuahua and Yorkie. I, unlike Jetta, am not a dog nut and I have to admit she is pretty cute.

So how is the puppy love? Bella, now nine months old, is full of energy and playfulness. We are working on the cuddly part. Mackenna is still finding out the hard way that puppies like to nip. And though Daisy has been a part of our family for 11 years, from day one Bella has tried to rule the roost and Daisy doesn’t particularly mind.

As you can imagine, Jetta has quite an extensive dog book collection. The latest one she acquired because of her outstanding second quarter report card. I’m a proud Mama, what can I say?

Incredible Dogs and their Incredible Tales! is a collection of short stories divided into chapters about Outrageous Dogs, Loyal Dogs, Never-Say-Die Dogs, Heroic Dogs and Astounding Dogs. One of my favorites is about a stray dog named Bozo, from Queens in 1941. When threatened with taking the dog away, the neighborhood kids staged a protest and collected enough money, $2.80, to license the dog. This book could be independently read by third graders on up, but also could be enjoyed as a family. Your kiddos will be entertained by these amazing dogs.

Happy Reading!

Heart to Heart

This evening when I crawled into bed next to Mackenna, she instructed me to hand her a book because she was going to “read” to me tonight. Oh, and she also told me to keep my lips shut. Honestly, I have no clue where she gets her bossiness.

As she proceeded to “read” Fancy Nancy Heart to Heart, my heart was bulging with pride as she told a story that went along with the pictures. Admittedly, she has been read hundreds of books over the course of her five years. But, I also have to wonder; does she know how to “read” a book because it has been repeatedly modeled for her? This emergent literacy skill she possesses is crucial for starting kindergarten.

I don’t expect every parent to put the same passion into reading as I do. For me, reading is as big a part of my life as breathing. That 's why I’ve chosen my profession. However, modeling reading to your child doesn’t mean you have to sit down with a 400-page book. There are many ways you can model reading, such as enjoying a magazine or a coffee table book, reading the newspaper, cooking with recipes or using directions to put something together.

Remember reading doesn’t mean you have to pick up a fiction book. Use the opportunity to read an information book to learn about a topic you’ve always wanted to know more about. Although for me, I’m always game for picking up the latest, racy Janet Evanovich book.

Happy Reading!

If Only Mornings Started Later

Most mornings with my five year old are not exactly pleasant. Not that I wake up a ray of sunshine every day myself, but mornings with Mackenna would try even the patience of Mother Teresa. Every morning is structured exactly the same, with one slight exception. That would be the time I can actually drag myself out of my soft, warm, cozy bed. The more time I give Mackenna before we walk out of the house, the better for all!

Each day begins with a soothing sippy cup of hot chocolate. Yes, I am aware of the fact she is five and still using a sippy. I’m hoping to break that habit before Kindergarten☺ She needs adequate time to watch her favorite morning show, Sponge Bob. Yes, I cringed as I typed that. If time allows, she always chooses a breakfast of pancakes. If not, she gets a piece of string cheese and a banana for the road.

Mackenna is a high maintenance child. She is oh-so-particular about her clothing. Finally, we have put the Hannah Montana boots she wore to school for 75 straight days in a row to rest. Socks are a major point of conflict while trying to get out the door. They have to be turned inside out and “just-so” or the screaming and tears begin. Yes, again I know she’s five—something we continue to work on each day. Also hair is an issue, which has resulted in a visiting hair professional, Serge (aka Daddy), making her presentable so Mommy is not too embarrassed when dropping her off at school.

This leads me to a new book in my collection called Grumpy Bird. It obviously reminds me of my darling child. Bird wakes up grumpy, but with the help of his animal friends walks off his grumpiness. They will love the vibrant and mystical illustrations of Grumpy Bird and friends! It is the perfect choice for preschool friends who don’t yet have words for their emotions. Using picture books that show specific emotions are a great way to encourage a discussion with your child about their feelings.

The good news for us is that Mackenna also “walks” off her grumpiness. In fact, her teacher claims she’s an absolute joy at school and loves every minute of her day with friends. And admittedly even a ray of sunshine can be a Grumpy Bird once in a while.

Happy Reading!

A Reading Routine

Recently I spent some nights away from my two little girls. One thing I missed as I settled in for bed is the routine we've set up in our home. After clothes are picked out for the next day and teeth are brushed, Jetta and Mackenna settle in their bed and enjoy a story or two before they drift off to sleep. Though many nights there are other things I need to be doing to prepare for the next day, I know that this time we spend together each evening is priceless.

Reading at bedtime is important for multiple reasons. This gives us some cuddle time that we don't make time for during the busy day. It gives us a chance to relax and reflect on our days. I am passing on a love of reading to my children. Even if you don't enjoy reading yourself, as a parent you are at least showing your child it is important to do. This time is setting the foundation of early literacy for my five year old. Mackenna is able to work on letter recognition and counting. It gives her a chance to practice comprehension skills when I ask questions and allows her question me also about what we've read together.

Due to different activities and work schedules, it is not always possible for parents to read to their children before bedtime. For our family, that's what works. Consider finding a set time each day to spend time reading to your child. They will certainly benefit and look forward to it and I have a feeling you will too!

Happy Reading!

Someday My Spring Will Come

I am generally a pleasant, agreeable, mostly happy person. Just ask anyone (okay, with the exception of my husband). There are very few things I really, REALLY dislike. However, one thing on that list is something we’ve been seeing way too much of: SNOW. I have a HUGE dislike for snow. So when I woke up this morning and saw more of that darn white stuff, I was not very happy. I keep telling my husband that I truly would love to move somewhere that the word "winter" is never experienced. So far he hasn’t given in.

I would honestly do anything for my children, except play in the snow. I figure that can be one thing on Daddy's list of specialties. In fact, the best way for me to admire a snowman is inside the house under my zebra print Snuggie. The most adorable snowmen friends can be found in Snowmen at Night by Caralyn and Mark Buehner. Sharing this book with a bitty loved one on your lap is sure to warm your spirits!

It is a cute story that explains why a snowman looks a bit worn out and droopy in the morning. Each snowman has their own lively personality that makes them jump of the pages! For an added perk, the illustrator had included hidden pictures that will surely entertain your little book lover.

Happy Reading!

Where'd Mom Go?

Have you ever wondered just where Max and Ruby's mom is? Wonder no more. I've got it figured out! She's still adjusting to going back to work full-time (seven months ago), forgot to take her allergy medicine again and is too lazy to exercise SO she's in bed with a splitting headache.

Wait, that's me. As I am lying in bed, heating pad on head, listening to my nine year old make a sandwich for her lil sis, Max and Ruby pop into my head. This is the question that puzzles so many adults who have had the privilege of reading a Max and Ruby book or watching the show. I actually do know the real reason we never see Max and Ruby's parents. Author Rosemary Wells purposefully does not include mom and dad because she wants the characters to solve their own problems.

Case in point: In Max's Dragon Shirt, Ruby takes Max to the mall to buy new pants. A typical girl, Ruby gets caught up in the dress department. Max ends up getting separated from Ruby and the characters have to figure out how to find each other again. In the end, as the title indicates, Max gets a new dragon shirt. Read the book to find out why he ends up with the shirt, instead of new pants. I know you have to be super curious!

From an English major's viewpoint, Max and Ruby books are far from profound works of literature. However, from a parent and teacher standpoint, they provide the perfect opportunity for discussion with your young children on how they would handle a similar situation. Plus Max and Ruby books are just downright delightful to share with your child!

Happy Reading!

Mom, Can I Please Have Some...Asparagus?

Something you need to know about me~I’m an addict. A sugar addict. Maybe you could have guessed that by the name of my blog.

This morning as I am driving my five year old to school, she asks if she can have asparagus to eat when we get home. Mind you, I dressed her in a "Cupcakes Rock" t-shirt today. This parenting thing is tough. As parents, particularly moms, we worry that we are raising our children to be the best they can be and to make good decisions. I know I am often guilty of the "do as I say, not as I do" ideology. But when my pre-kindergarten sugar-loving (like her mama) sweetheart asks for asparagus out of the blue, I know I'm doing something right!

One of our favorite stories is Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann. It is the story of a young girl cleverly named Pinkalicious who surprisingly LOVES the color pink. Pinkalicious bakes cupcakes with pink frosting, of course, and can't resist eating too many. Sounds way too familiar! However, then Pinkalicious turns pink and decides that's not such a good thing. The solution to turning back to normal is eating lots of green vegetables. How's that for a life lesson?

Pinkalicious is very enjoyable for moms and kids alike. It is a fun read with lots of play on words such as "Pinkarella" and "Pink Pong." The cool illustrations appear to be a combination of paint and collage. If you enjoy this book, you are in luck because Purplicious and Goldilicious are also available!

For me, it would be a difficult choice between asparagus (roasted with sea salt) or a pink cupcake with sprinkles. But there's no doubt what I’d choose!

Happy Reading!

Welcome to the Reading Mama Blog!

“All of life is a journey: which paths we take, what we look back on, and what we look forward to is up to us. We determine our destination, what kind of road we will take to get there, and how happy we are when we get there.” Anonymous

This begins my journey as a blogger.

Just a little background info before we get started: I am a 35 (yikes!) year old mom and teacher. I am Missouri born and raised. I have now, however, lived in Nebraska long enough I am referring to "soda" as "pop." My interests include my two adorable girls (ages 5 & 9), reading (of course, I'm a librarian!), cooking (I LOVE to eat), my walk with Christ (I'm hanging on the edge of a cliff at the moment) and keeping up with friends on Facebook.

My goal for this blog is to connect the joys of teaching and parenting to children's literature. As an elementary school teacher-librarian, I cannot emphasis enough how important it is for parents to read to your children, particularly your small children. It is important for parents to make reading fun to get their children engaged and excited about books. I think I can assist with that!

“The single most significant factor influencing a child’s educational success is an introduction to books and being read to at home prior to beginning school.” National Commission on Reading

Happy Reading!