Raising Independent Young Women and Men

This has been a prevalent thought on my mind today as I have chatted with friends over the internet who are like-minded in the belief that it is important to inspire young girls into becoming strong and independent women who refuse to be labeled or put into a "box."

There are so many shining examples (such as the video link below) of how we need to change our way of thinking if we are to help further the education and mindset from yesterday's thoughts to today's new standards of forward thinking. No longer can we afford to have our children believe that boys are better in math and science than girls or that girls are better in English courses. Girls are just as capable as boys in pursuing their educational goals and vice versa. Girls should not be made to think they are a decoration, but that they are valued for their insight and keen minds.

To the right is a prime example. The picture shows my daughter building a ballista several years ago for her 11th grade Honors Physics class. Although she chose to major in English and Communications, she had the mental fortitude to take Honors and AP math and science courses throughout high school. Had she listened to the old adage of days gone by, she would not have followed through with her desire to pursue this advanced curriculum. Don't limit your child! If you believe in them, they will believe in themselves!

What does your daughter believe?  (Video)

We also can't afford to have young men believe they cannot pursue the art of literature through the written word! Who among us has the right to say that women are better in this scholarly endeavor than men? Is it because society has always dictated it as such? I'm glad that young Christopher Paolini, who began writing Eragon at the age of 15, did not fall prey to this old way of thinking.

As parents, and educators, we have to encourage children to pursue their passion. It is up to them to decide what those ambitions are and not for us to mold them around our own ideas. Inspire a child to be who they are and watch as they blossom into an amazing individual full of potential and confidence.

Whatever path your child chooses--support them! It is also important to encourage them to begin reading at an early age, despite the direction they may head in the future, so that they have the tools they need to succeed. Do not let their potential go untapped. It is our challenge to help bring out the best in our child and see that they reach their highest aspirations!

Free Today - June 26, 2014!

Please help me to promote children's literacy by spreading the news! Today, until midnight, you can download a free Kindle copy of my #1 Amazon Best selling children's mystery book, Dani and the Haunted House!

Dani and the Haunted House has made the #1 position on Amazon's Children's Mysteries & Detectives several times now, and the response from children has been amazing, as has the feedback from parents, grandparents, and teachers! Check out our reviews for yourself!

Why not help support children's literacy by downloading your FREE Kindle copy today? Wouldn't you like to watch your child read a new adventure and share that experience with them? It's easy! All it takes is a few minutes each day, a chapter or two, to help them become avid readers--plus, you get the added benefit of creating lasting memories!

Wishing you all a touch a little adventure,

K. Lamb

Inkspokes: Author Interview

Recently I was asked to give an author interview. I could act nonchalant and tell you it is all in a day's work, but I would rather be honest with you--I was beyond giddy! It was the first time I had been asked to do an interview and  I found the whole experience to be quite exciting from start to finish.

First, a little about my Interviewer. Nelson Suit is one of the Editors at Inkspokes, a website committed to bringing together Indie Authors, Illustrators, and Readers. Nelson is quite the Renaissance Man; he studied History and Literature at Yale, is a practicing attorney, and is an author and illustrator himself. I couldn't believe it when he asked me, a recently published children's author, to give an interview. I was incredibly honored--and grateful--because I realize that opportunities like this don't come along every day!

I hope you will take a moment to read my interview, and to also peruse Inkspokes. They have put together a wonderful collection of articles on the latest happenings in the literary world whether you are someone who is in the industry or just a passionate reader and staunch supporter of the written word. There is something for everyone! I hope you will take the time to find out for yourself.

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K. Lamb

Blessings

Today during a conversation with a friend, which brought a smile to my face and tears to my eyes in the very best of ways, I was reminded of the importance of counting ones blessings. It is something that I try to do on a regular basis as I find that it truly helps put life in perspective and gives one a sense of inner peace.

When was the last time your life felt like it was in balance? I know there was a certain point in my life where it seemed life was managing me, instead of me running my life. I wonder how many of you might be feeling that same way? I understand that it can be a difficult task to balance everything, and I am not saying it is easy--at all--but with a few adjustments you will find that it can be accomplished.

Stop for a moment and take a deep breath. Reflect. What is most important to you? What can you let go of? That is your starting point. Perhaps your priorities might even be changing. Life is constantly evolving, you can't expect the same routine to keep up with this process. Once you take stock of the overall picture you can slowly begin to modify your day-to-day life to meet your new expectations.

You also need to find time for yourself, even if it is only for a few minutes each day. Perhaps it taking time to go to the gym, to get your nails done, or a long walk along the beachfront. Or, one of my favorite things to advocate, reading to your child over a treasured storybook. Find a few calming moments each day to focus on you so that you can clear your mind.

It doesn't happen in a day--trust me--I know. However, if you start looking at your life from a different perspective, making changes as necessary, you will one day find your life in balance. You will be able to see the blessings in your life and find the negativity building up within you subsiding. You will find your inner peace.

Wishing you all a lifetime of serenity,

K. Lamb


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Photo Sources:
http://newhealthalert.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/meditation-courses1.jpg
http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/01356/bedtimestories_1356045c.jpg

The Chocolate Book Tour

How do you choose six books in which to speak of out of a lifetime?  Sometimes you just have to break the rules and go one step farther...

If you think it is easy, you might be surprised!  I found it to be a truly difficult task. I knew I wanted to focus on children's books since promoting children's literacy is such an important cause in my life. All of the books listed are ones I read as a child, with the exception of The Giver. There is also an adult book I wanted to share. You might be surprised by that choice, but it is one that still remains in my dresser today.  

Before I delve into my choices of chocolates and books, I first want to thank author and illustrator, Nelson Suit, for asking me to join him on the tour. I am honored he wanted to include me.  Nelson is the author of Els Oot and the Mapmaker and Els Oot and the Baby Dragon.  Nelson also pens the blog On Tilley Pond and is an editor at Inkspoke.com. When he is not busy writing and expanding the minds of today's youth, he is busy practicing law. I am sure you will enjoy the literary offerings and sites of this talented artist and writer.

Now on to my tasty tidbits of chocolate and literary delights...

NANCY DREW MYSTERY SERIES - CAROLYN KEENE

There probably isn't any series that I enjoyed more as a youngster than the Nancy Drew mysteries. Nancy was a strong, independent force to be reckoned with and wasn't about to let anyone stand in her way or push her aside. If there was a problem, she had the solution! She was a wonderful role model for young girls, despite her knack for getting herself into dangerous situations. 

Considering all the intrigue she found herself mixed up in, there is only one chocolate that could possibly represent her:  Ghiradelli's Midnight Reverie.  It is vibrant and intense, just like like our daring sleuth! 

THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK - ANNE FRANK

I would be remiss if I did not include Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl. This incredibly sad story was written by a young girl who was forced to hide in an attic annex for two years in the 1940s when Germans invaded the Netherlands.  Her words will touch your very soul as you read the loneliness she endured in her young life. Caught up in a world of chaos with only a small window to give her comfort in an otherwise dismal existence, she wrote in her diary and forever left her legacy to the world.  

I chose a dark chocolate mousse with a chocolate graham cracker crumble. The dark chocolate is to represent the bitterness of the times, the silkiness of the mousse in honor of her spirit, and the crumbliness of the graham crackers to reflect how her life slipped away.    


RED BADGE OF COURAGE - STEPHEN CRANE

Stephen Crane's The Red Badge of Courage definitely had to make my list of books for children, and adults, to read.  I'm not so sure it is a popular choice in today's world, but it is one that deserves to be read. 

I liked this book because it was gritty and talked about subjects that weren't routinely discussed with children. Bravery and courage are something that need to be encouraged and nurtured. We all wonder how we will respond in a time of crisis. This book is the perfect opportunity for parents and children to discuss the inner turmoil building up in their young lives and to help create an open dialog.  

The perfect accompaniment to this book would be a Hershey's Krackle.  Just the name reminds me of the crack of gunfire that surrounded young Henry Fleming.  Again, the grittiness of the crisped rice seems appropriate because all does not go effortlessly with his inner conflict, until he takes the flag in hand and comes to terms with the true meaning of the word "courage," at which point the chocolate blends in with the roughness of the bar to bring about a smooth conclusion.  

LITTLE WOMEN - LOUISA MAY ALCOTT

Growing up I always loved reading about this time period. It was a harsh time in history, yet romantic to a young girl. The dynamic between the sisters kept the story captivating, and there is some relationship between the characters that everyone can relate to. I'm sure it is not a stretch of anyone's imagination to know that I found myself akin to Joe.  I loved her spirit and sass, her desire to become a writer, and her love story. 

To me, Little Women, is most like a Snickers bar.  It has the caramel goodness of joyful times, the peanuts to represent their arduous journey over symbolic rough roads, and then the creamy nougat of the homecoming that awaits them all as they come together in the end. 

THE GIVER - LOIS LOWRY

I truly enjoyed reading this book when my daughter was in grammar school. For her, it was a school assignment. For me, it was just following a pattern we had gotten into. I liked reading the same books as my daughter so we could discuss them. It helped her to really think about the books and what she was reading, and I loved the insight she could provide in how she interpreted the stories from a child's perspective. 

This book is about a society where memories are forgotten--put away, and only seen and felt by one individual, "The Giver." The members of society feel no joy, nor pain. They live a life without options or choice.  Young Jonas has followed suit up until his twelfth birthday when he is set to become the new Giver. Once he starts receiving memories he realizes their world is not all that it seems, but envisions what could be.

I paired this book with Ethel M's raspberry creme in dark chocolate because it is symbolic to young Jonas' discovery that life can hold amazing richness and color when the outer protective shell is broken. 

CHARLOTTE'S WEB - E.B. WHITE

I grew up as a rough and tumble "barn rat."  It was a term of endearment that was bestowed upon all the little kids by the adults at the stables where my pony was kept. I have so many wonderful memories of hanging out with my best friend, Maple City Man of the Hour, or just Maple for short.  I felt an instant connection and familiarity when reading Charlotte's Web. It is a timeless storybook of friendship, and ultimately, loss.  Besides, it had a talking pig and a spider that can spell! What kid wouldn't love that? I know I sure did! 

I'm not quite sure why I chose Mounds as a representation for this book. I think it is because the dark chocolate and coconut go together so well, like Wilbur and Charlotte. It just seems like a natural combination of goodness. 

LITTLE GOLDEN BOOKS DUMBO - WALT DISNEY

Anyone that has ever read my blog will probably guess what the #1 book on my list will be.  It goes back to my early childhood and is one of my absolute favorites. You may at first wonder why until you learn the reason behind it. It is the Little Golden Book's Dumbo.

The reason this book tops my list, despite its simplicity, is because it evokes such strong emotion in me.  I was lucky enough to grow up living next to my grandmother who bestowed her love of literature onto me.  This is the first book I can recall from my early childhood, besides my big red book of nursery rhymes that weighed as much as me. Each time I spent the night at my grandparents I could count on the same bedtime routine. My grandmother would lovingly ask me what book I wanted her to read, which was always Dumbo, and afterwards as she tucked the covers snugly around me she would sing Mr. Bluebird On Your Shoulder and give me a kiss goodnight.  I ask you, how could this not be the number one book on my list?  

I would definitely say this book defines the very essence of a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. The way the chocolate wraps around the peanut butter as a blanket does a small child, keeping everything safe inside.  Yes, a peanut butter cup is definitely my choice for this delightful children's book that holds so many endearing memories for me. Plus, Dumbo loves peanuts! 

ADDITIONAL MUST-READ CHILDREN & YOUNG ADULT BOOKS:

As I concluded the children's section I found myself wanting to add book after book, but then this blog would never end. Even as I posted my additional must-reads above, there were so many books that I had wished I had added to it! There is such a plethora of wonderful literary options available today from timeless classics to new treasured tales. I hope that with everything that is available in today's marketplace that you will help your child find a book that is their "perfect fit" and read with them today! 

THE ULTIMATE GIFT - JIM STOVALL

Let's shake things up a bit and talk about an adult book, although I firmly believe that children's books aren't just for children! I want to set the record straight on that one. 

I received this book as a gift. I guess I should explain. I work as an office manager for a busy commercial real estate office. One day, years ago, a client came in carrying three books. Typically this client was all-business with a "lets get to it" mentality. Although always pleasant, he was a busy man with a hectic schedule. So his composure that day took me a little by surprise. He had dropped his business facade and stood before me almost humbled. He then held out a book to me, The Ultimate Gift, by Jim Stovall. He explained that he had received it as a gift himself, and after reading it, he promptly bought copies for all of his employees and business associates because it had greatly moved him. I remember thinking to myself, "Wow, this book must be awesome."  That night I sat down and read it cover-to-cover. I have to say, I agreed with him. There was something about this book that moved me as well. I loved the morality of it, the message it contained, and the heart within this book.  I will admit, I bought a dozen copies of the book myself and handed them out that year to loved ones.

The premise of the book is about a young man, Jason Stevens, who expects to inherit millions of dollars from a deceased relative. Unfortunately for him, or so he thinks, before he can collect those funds he must learn several "Life Lessons." The book goes on to teach these lessons in story form. It is very well crafted so that you don't feel like you are being preached at while you read the book.

I knew instantaneously what I would pair with this book because it seemed so obvious: This book could only be a cup of soul-soothing, hot chocolate.  It warms you from the inside out. This is a book to be read by all, in my humble opinion.  You may be surprised at what you learn from it, and about yourself. 

COMING UP ON THE TOUR - JUNE 21ST:

C.L. Murphy is an award winning author and illustrator of the children's picture book series THE ADVENTURES OF LOVABLE LOBO. She says she's having the time of her life creating, sharing and being apart of the kid lit world. What a PACK of peeps they are, where everyday is an adventure! blog link: http://lovablelobo.wordpress.com

Jamie Stevens is an author, illustrator and developer of Peep’s Spring Surprise, an interactive preschool storybook app. Peep is a bird of few words. Actually just one word, “Peep.” That doesn’t stop Peep, along with his friends, Piper and Penny, as they jump with the rabbits, hug huge fluffy sheep and find hidden eggs. Jamie is currently working on the second storybook app in her Peep and Friends series and also plans on offering the preschool series in print.  Jamie can most often be found on her Facebook account, so you can find her Chocolate Book Blog post at: http://www.facebook.com/PeepandFriends

Cat Michaels started writing stories in fourth grade and hasn’t stopped since.  After earning an M.S. degree in special education from the University of Kansas, she spent two decades helping students from kindergarten to college reach their potential.  She also worked in the private sector and managed communication and staff development programs for an international high-tech firm.  However, she returned to her education roots, serving at a community college as a writing coach for students with Asperger’s syndrome and learning disabilities. 

Cat builds on her teaching experiences to write illustrated chapter books for young readers of all abilities to develop imagination and critical thinking skills.  Watercolor illustrations by Irene A. Jahns help bring the stories to life.  Cat's books, Sweet T and the North Wind and Finding Fuzzy: a You-Decide Tale of a Lost Friend, can be found on Amazon and ordered from local bookstores.

To connect with Cat, please visit her website:  http://goo.gl/9ROOAQ

Last, but certainly not least, is my friend Geena Bean. Geena graduated from Rutgers University in 2003 with a degree in English. Over the past ten years, she has been working within the nanny industry while trying to fulfill her dream of becoming a full-time children's author. Her first picture book, Come Back Dear Sun, was published in January, 2013. Since then, she has been writing other children's literature stories, visiting elementary schools and independent bookstores throughout New Jersey, and further establishing herself with the children's book industry. Her second picture book will be released in the winter of 2015. Please visit Geena's blog at:  Geena Bean, Children's Book Author.

Thank you for joining me on the tour.  Before I go, I would like to encourage you to be a mentor--read to a child and make a difference in their life!  

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K.  Lamb

Your Child's Choices

This may seem like a redundant post, but it is because I get asked quite often the same question:  How can I get my child to love reading?

There is no one answer as each child differs. I can tell you that you have to make the experience about the child, and not about yourself. You may want to steer them to a certain book or genre, but if you really want them to love to read--see what they like without any interference. There will be plenty of times in the years ahead to direct them towards the classics, the Newbery Award winners, or your childhood treasures. Right now, it is about finding out what piques their interest.

Take your child to the library--or better yet--a bookstore! Let them loose, figuratively speaking, and see where they go. Follow close behind, but let them explore. Make going to a bookstore as fun as going to a toy store! When you go to Toys-R-Us, do you tell them what toys to like? Or do you let their natural curiosity lead them to the right toy? It is the same process with books! Tell your child they can pick out one or two of their favorite books to take home and watch as their enthusiasm grows.

It doesn't matter if your child picks up a comic, board book, early chapter book, or recipe book! They have made their decision, which means they are more apt to read the book you purchased. Now don't expect them to read it all on their own. Take a vested interest! Become a part of the process. Discuss the book with them. Answer any questions your child may have, and ask a few of your own! Make reading a bonding experience.

Be sure to create a quiet place to read without distractions. This can be a delightful reading nook just for them, or merely a comfy overstuffed chair like the one in our home. The idea is to have an atmosphere conducive to reading without all the external noise. In time they will learn to tune out the world when they are reading, but in the beginning they need a little help with that.

Continue with this process. As time goes by and your child becomes an avid reader on their own, begin introducing some of the books you would like them to read.  However, never force them to read your choices--that will go down like the Titanic! All you need to do is make them available. They may pick one up right away or it may take months. Eventually, the chances of them reading one of your selections is pretty good.

Believe it or not, if you show interest in what your child is reading they will want to share their adventure with you. They'll even talk to you!  Once a pattern is established it will continue on into their--gasp--teenage years!  All it took was a simple trip to the library or book store as a small child.  It is amazing the doors that books can open up...

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K. Lamb


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Credits:

First Photo: http://www.theguardian.com
Second Photo: http://www.delightfulchildrensbook.com (great source for reading nook ideas!)

Think back to your childhood...

I'd like to ask you to stop for a moment. Relax. Forget about all the thoughts racing through your mind, your busy to-do list, and the kids screaming in the background. Take a moment just for yourself and remember what it was like to be young--a child.

What did you love to do as a kid? Did books play a role in that in any way? How? Did they open up your mind to a world of imagination? I know they did for me.

I learned to love reading as a small child. I never really stood a chance. My grandmother was an avid reader who was passionate about sharing that gift with me. While my dad was busy trying to force me to read Time Magazine--love you, Dad--it was my grandmother who opened up the world of literature for me. I had every book imaginable that could hold my interest. She had a favorite old bookstore where she would buy and trade used books to her heart's content. For me, she was my own personal library!

I was a strange tot.  I loved a mixture of gothic tales and mysteries: of monsters and who-dun-its.  I definitely read books that were not age appropriate at times. I dare say my parents probably would have shuddered if they had known some of the gothic tales my grandmother smuggled me as contraband. Oh, I loved her!

Now, I want you to take it one step further---how did those books influence you? Did they make a difference to you? Did they open up a new world? Did they put your imagination into overdrive?

I spent many an hour reading of vampires and ogres, my cherished contraband, in the peacefulness of my grandparents' home. Aside from these mysterious creatures, I was enamored by Nancy Drew. a much more age appropriate choice. She was an awesome female detective who always found herself in dangerous situations and in a pinch.  I wanted to be her--to solve mysteries of my own. It wasn't surprising when I took on the role of becoming an FBI agent.
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Yes, as a tyke I would run around with a black leather, flip notebook interrogating everyone with my questions. I had my nose into everything. I'm sure at times I was a bit annoying, yet everyone listened patiently to my questions as I set about my quest.  I was out and about to solve whatever mystery I had created in my mind.

Fast forward several decades, where did books take me? Well, I am now a children's author writing about an almost-eight-year old detective named, Dani. Would I have been here today without my childhood adventures? What if I hadn't shared those adventures with my own daughter? Would I have ever written my first book for her?

As you sit and think back---where did your imagination and books take you? How have they changed your life? Are you smiling? I hope so. I hope as you take a look back into yesteryear you are remembering a childhood blessed with adventures.

Now, back to reality. Your child is screaming in the background. Perhaps they want a little attention. Perhaps they are bored. Here is a novel idea--no pun intended--how about reading with them? Share the gift you discovered long ago through the power of books. Help them to find their imagination and the path to their future. Who knows, perhaps they will become part of the next great generation of writers--or an astronaut floating through space discovering unknown worlds.

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K. Lamb

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CREDITS
Dracula Photo Source:  www.blackgate.com
Girl Detective Photo Source: http://strathmorelibrary.ca/

The Message Behind Today's Cartoons

This blog has been dedicated to my thoughts on children's literacy, education, and encouraging children to read. Hopefully you will bear with me as I veer off-topic today. Who knows, perhaps in  the future, it shall be the home to more of my musings other than to promote literacy--but that shall always be my main focus.

Today I would like to talk about cartoons. I was feeling nostalgic the other day so I decided I wanted to play some some beloved cartoons from my childhood, and my daughter's, while doing a few chores about the house. Grabbing the keyboard, I directed myself over to Netflix where I used our handy-dandy Chrome Cast to put an episode of Scooby Doo on our living room television to keep me company. Unfortunately, Netflix didn't have the old classics I watched as a kid so I had to pull up the newer 2010 version.
(Photo Source: wikipedia.com)

It was immediately apparent that Scooby Doo: Mystery Incorporated (circa 2010-2012) was not the treasured cartoon of my youth. When I was a child I was mesmerized by the mysteries that the gang seemed to find themselves mixed up in and the monsters that chased them. It was my all-time favorite cartoon. It was only natural when I had a child of my own that we found ourselves watching the old re-runs together as we snuggled up in our over-sized chair.

Imagine my surprise, as I'm moving about the house, when I hear talk of romance. Wait, what? I stop and walk over to the television and sit down. My cleaning was forgotten as I start settling into my chair and really start watching the episodes that are playing.  My beloved memories are being crushed as I continue to watch episode after episode only to discover that Scooby Doo has turned from an exciting mystery adventure into a soap opera for children!

In one scene Scooby Doo, upon seeing something rustling in the bushes, charges forward thinking he is going to save his best friend, Shaggy. Only he isn't greeted by a monster as one would expect--instead, he interrupts an interlude between Shaggy and Velma as they are locked in an embrace.  (Photo Source: scoobyfan.net)

Then there is the scantily clad Daphne as she vies for Freddie's attention in a purple bikini. I believe, if memory serves me correctly, she appeared in this same bikini in more than one episode.
(Source: http://img.rp.vhd.me/4677226_l3.jpg)

Do not get me wrong, I am in no way a prude. I was just greatly surprised by how my treasured childhood memory was being tainted by such a dramatic overhaul.

Then I started thinking...this is being marketed to children? Is this really the message we want to instill in elementary aged children? Is it any wonder why elementary kids want to start dating at such a young age? Should a show that was once based on a cool group of kids solving monster mysteries be transformed into nothing more than trying to "get the guy?" One of the show's main focuses was now about Daphne trying to land Freddie as her boyfriend, and Shaggy having to choose between his loyalty to his dog, and his girlfriend Velma.  Spoiler alert--he chose Scooby.  Well, at least up until the point I stopped watching.  This is a soap opera so who knows what happened after I stopped watching.

The point of my blog is not to bash Scooby Doo.  I love Scooby Doo. It was an amazing part of my childhood, and of my daughter's childhood. What I do want to do is bring attention to the way children's programming is changing. As parents it is our responsibility to choose wisely what our children are watching on television. I have never been a big proponent of censorship. To be honest, I probably would not have prohibited my daughter from watching the show if she wanted to. However, you can bet there would have been a lot of discussions in our household over what was going on in the cartoon and what was and was not appropriate for someone her age.

The moral of the story is to be alert to what your child is watching on television. Be prepared to discuss matters responsibly with them. Answer questions they may have and ask a few of your own. Children are growing up so fast in today's world--don't they deserve to be just children for a little while?

Scooby Doo: Mystery Incorporated went off the air in 2012. I do not know if it has been replaced by a newer version.  Just consider this an example, know what your child is being subjected to whether in print or on the screen. It is our role as parents to help guide them along the right paths.  Again, I probably wouldn't have stopped her from watching the show, but then again, there has always been a lot of discussions in our household.

Thank you for letting me post my thoughts on the subject.  I'd love to hear your thoughts as well.

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K. Lamb

Your Child Wants to Learn

"Children have an inherent desire to learn, a natural aptitude to absorb knowledge, and the excitement to see it through with gentle guidance." - K. Lamb

Parents are constantly teaching their children. It is a never ending process as we try and impart our knowledge and life experiences on to them.  However, I must admit that it has been many years since I have had to teach my daughter to read.  I thought today though I would share our experiences from long ago.

First of all, as I have said a million times during conversations and blogging, children are never too young for books!  I firmly believe in this.  Don't believe me? This is my daughter, oh so many years ago......

Look at the intent look on her face. She is really into that book!  She loved the pictures. I am a great supporter of board books for babies and toddlers.  I made sure she always had a varied selection so she wouldn't get bored.

The other secret--now don't tell anyone--I'd hate for it to get around...READ TO THEM! Children love story time. I loved story time! I loved being able to gather this joyful little bundle in my arms, cuddling her close, and reading a story of her choice. Of course when she was really little I'd do the choosing.  ;)

As they get a little older start pointing to the words as you read them. Be sure to ask questions so you know if they are absorbing the material and get their opinion on different ideas throughout the book. You'll be amazed at their thoughts! This is my favorite part of any story time.

When our daughter was about 2 years old we gave her one of our old computers. We had just bought a new one and so I wasn't afraid of what she would do to the old one. Now days, you can easily hand them an iPad for the same effect.  There are tons of learning games and interactive apps.  Back in those days my daughter loved her Edmark software! It was the same software used in her daycare.  Bailey's Book House was one of her favorites.

(Photo Source: http://www.mobygames.com/)

Unfortunately, they no longer make it for the newer computer systems. If you have an older system it can still be purchased.  Her other favorite game, just for fun, was Pajama Sam! Oh, she loved that game!  I swear, I think she'd still play it for nostalgia's sake if she could get it to work on her iMac.

(Photo Source: http://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/)

I recently found this software abcMouse and it reminded me a lot of the old Edmark software. This is in no way an endorsement as I have never used the software, but it has the same feel of the programs my daughter used to use.

When my daughter was about four I decided it was time to get serious about her reading. Up until that time we would do reading exercises and I would encourage her to "read," but ultimately I was doing most of the heavy lifting.  One day I was shopping at Costco when I came across a preschool reading program.  I remember the program was about $90.00 and that was about 16 years ago.  I wish I could remember the name because it was a phenomenal program! The only thing I do remember about it is that it had a large, white rabbit on the box. Included in the package was a reading software program paired with small, easy-to-read paperback books.  Not surprisingly, she loved the reading software. After completing a software lesson, children were encouraged to read the accompanying book for that lesson. (One lesson=one book) As the lessons progressed and became more difficult, so did the books. The closest thing I can compare it to now is Learn to Read - Hooked on Phonics.

One particular day when my daughter started getting frustrated with her paperback book, I remember encouraging her. I told her that if she kept practicing, someday when she read the words the most magnificent movie would play in her head, but it would be better than any movie she had ever watched before.  Instead of seeing the words, she would be able to see a picture. She was a little dubious, but it was the encouragement she needed to keep her going.

I will never forget the time I came home after a long, hard day of work. I opened the front door and my daughter came running down the hallway, with my husband trailing behind.  Her voice met me before she did, "Mommie, mommie, I did it! I saw the movie playing!"  I will never forget that moment.  The joy in her voice and face as I swept her up into my arms was priceless.  Of course, I immediately had to go and listen to her read what turned out to be the magical book that was her turning point. After that, I could not keep the child in books! She fell in love with literature.  By the time she entered Kindergarten she was a full-fledged reader.

The moral of my blog is that your child wants to learn. They have that natural curiosity when they are young. Their minds are sponges just waiting to absorb the knowledge you put before them. Don't waste this precious gift. Read with your child. Inspire them to become their future self by teaching them to strive for goals and never stop helping them on their journey.

Wishing you all a little adventure,

K. Lamb
Author of the Dani P. Mystery series

http://www.danipmystery.com

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http://www.authorklamb.blogspot.com

Book reviews...

..are like a visit from Santa on Christmas morning.  You sign on to check your book's status and suddenly you find a "gift" under the tree  and you are giddy with excitement. ~ K. Lamb

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Congratulations to our Goodreads Giveaway Winner!

Our Dani and the Mall Caper Giveaway Has Ended!

I wanted to take a moment to thank our Goodreads Giveaway Winner, Kendra, for entering to win an autographed copy of Dani and the Mall Caper!

Your package is wrapped and waiting to ship out in tomorrow's mail.

If you would like to read your own copy of Dani and the Mall Caper, it is available on Amazon.com.

Order Kindle Version Here  Only $1.99
Order Paperback Version Here  Only $4.49

Thank you for supporting the Dani P. Mystery series. We hope you will join Dani on her next big adventure!

Wishing you all the best,

K. Lamb

It's the adventures of Dani P.
Join her in her mysteries!

http://www.danipmystery.com
http://www.facebook.com/danipmystery
http://www.twitter.com/danipmystery
http://www.authorklamb.blogspot.com