In “The Tree That’s Meant to Be” by Yuval Zommer, a small, crooked fir tree is left all alone after the others near it in the forest are chosen by families as Christmas to bring home. But when the forest animals gather around the lonely little tree to cheer it up and celebrate the season, […]
“Owl Babies” by Martin Waddell and Owl Craft
“Owl Babies” by Martin Waddell is a reassuring and stunningly illustrated book that tackles the subject of separation anxiety that all children experience. For example, parents will go to work while their nanny cares for them. When three baby owls awake one night to find their mother is gone, they can’t help but wonder where […]
“The Little Lamb’s Easter Miracle” and Lamb Craft
To prepare for Easter, read “The Little Lamb’s Easter Miracle” by Kellie Hurley with the children in your care and make a doily lamb craft. “The Little Lamb’s Easter Miracle” is a children’s picture book by Kellie Hurley, aimed at children aged 2 to 6. Through the perspective of a curious lamb, the story introduces […]
“Bear Snores On” by Karma Wilson and Paper Plate Bear Crafts
The end of February and March, when it’s still cold but the days are getting longer as Spring approaches, is the perfect time to discuss animals coming out of hibernation with children. Start the conversation by reading the board book, “Bear Snores On” by Karma Wilson and illustrated by Jane Chapman and then make these […]
“Duck and Goose” by Tad Hills and Sensory Bin
Parents love when nannies incorporate activities that correspond with their children’s favorite books. “Duck and Goose” by Tad Hills is a great board book series to share with toddlers. I made a sensory bin for the toddler in my care to play with while reading her favorite books “Duck and Goose” to her. In this first […]
“Whispers of the Snake” and Split Pin Snake
It is the start of Chinese New Year (or Lunar New Year) and it is the year of the snake. Read “Whispers of the Snake: A Chinese New Year Book: A Story for Kids to Celebrate the Year of the Snake and Learn about Chinese Traditions” by Chloe E. Gore and then help the children […]
“Martin Luther King the Peaceful Warrior” and Peace Sun Catcher
To prepare for Martin Luther King Jr. Day read children’s books about the civil rights leader and make a peace sun catcher to recognize Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. In “Martin Luther King the Peaceful Warrior” by Ed Clayton readers follow the inspiring life of Martin Luther King Jr. in a moving, vital, and informative […]
“The Three Little Pigs” Story and DIY Puppets
My Nanny Kids love puppets and puppet shows. Puppetry is a great way to promote story telling and to foster language, imagination, communication, and more. Using construction paper, white and pink paper plates, jumbo or extra large craft sticks, crayons, markers, glue sticks, and hot glue, I made a few quick puppets for the story […]