Lana Button's Blog, page 3
October 14, 2020
When You Gotta Go
And I'm here to tell you that I didn't get far into this school year before meeting a few new friends who were avoiding my class washroom at all cost. Raj did not let me down! Kids found the story relatable and helpful. It even made an overnight trip in a backpack to a child's home so his parents could read the story at bedtime. And the child told me, with a stone cold stare, "You know he almost peed his pants. But then he did it! He used it! The bathroom at school." And I am pleased to report that the child then marched into the bathroom and soon triumphantly returned. You know, as a children's author, starred reviews are a great thing, but nothing is better than knowing that your story has helped a child.
Raj's Rule
September 27, 2020
Getting my Virtual School Visit Groove On
But author visits look very different this year. Gone are gyms full of students sitting criss-cross-applesauce, as we are forced to reach our audience through a zoom lens or a youtube link. It is different. But I still love it. As a former actress I can dig deep into my tv experience and speak to that green light on my laptop like I'm speaking to that kindergarten class. Instead of holding the book up high, for the child in the back row to see, I' m now holding the page close to the camera so each child can see the intricacies of the pictures. My projected voice has turned into a quieter voice that requires a different kind of energy and excitement to hold on to my young viewer's attention.
But the goal is the same. Entertain, inspire and educate. Every visit. I consider it a privilege. Every time.Lana Button
September 2, 2020
Making Mask Wearing Easier for your Young Child
Tips for success and easing anxiety
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We’re all getting used to wearing those masks. And over the past few months you may have sheltered your child from going places where mask wearing is mandatory. So now what do you do as they get ready to go to school- and wear that mask all day long? As a seasoned early childhood educator, I’m invested in your child’s well-being. And I’ve put together these tips to make mask wearing easier for your young child.
Choosing the mask
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Can your child pick out their mask? If they have a say in what they are wearing, they are more likely to be excited about wearing it. Browsing online is easier than browsing in a store these days, so do a search and give your child a chance to see the variety of masks out there. Even if you can’t order one today, just giving your child a chance to look at a variety of child friendly masks will help take away the scary element.
Consider accessories- There will be ‘mask breaks’ throughout your child’s day. Consider adding a fanny pack to your child’s wardrobe. (Did you save yours from the 70’s??) This will give your child a clean spot to put their mask when they are outside and an easy access to grabbing it to put back on.
There are also some cool lanyards out there that hook onto your child’s mask. Look for the break-away ones that will come detached when you give it a good yank- so there’s no choking hazard. These lanyards also allow your child to keep their mask close and clean when having a mask break. Google child mask lanyards for lots of choices.
Getting comfortable Seeing Masks
[image error]Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com
Spend some time desensitizing your child to masks. You want your child to have experienced that ‘people wear masks and I am still safe’. So, have your child see people in masks in public, like at the grocery store. Have them spend time with people they know who are wearing masks, such as their family members or close friends.
Getting Comfortable Wearing Masks
Wearing a mask gets easier as you get used to it. Pick times throughout the day to practice wearing a mask- and make it fun. Motivate your child with a fun activity paired with mask wearing. “Let’s walk around the block in our mask, and then let’s have a snack.” Motivate your child to wear a mask during a fun activity like playing a game or watching a favourite show.
[image error]Photo by Gustavo Fring on Pexels.com
Your Attitude Counts!
As a parent you are dealing with a lot of anxiety here! So, this is where you’ll need to draw on your inner actor and put a smile on your face. Your attitude toward these masks will make a huge impact on how your child will cope when wearing one. Of course, you are going to be understanding and listen when your child talks about discomfort in wearing the mask. But comments about your child being in danger, or that the ‘masks are ridiculous’ will only make your child more anxious. Keep it light. Keep it fun. And check that you are having those anxious conversations out of earshot of your young child.
Making Mask Wearing Easier for your Young Child
Tips for success and easing anxiety
[image error]
We’re all getting used to wearing those masks. And over the past few months you may have sheltered your child from going places where mask wearing is mandatory. So now what do you do as they get ready to go to school- and wear that mask all day long? As a seasoned early childhood educator, I’m invested in your child’s well-being. And I’ve put together these tips to make mask wearing easier for your young child.
Choosing the mask
[image error]
Can your child pick out their mask? If they have a say in what they are wearing, they are more likely to be excited about wearing it. Browsing online is easier than browsing in a store these days, so do a search and give your child a chance to see the variety of masks out there. Even if you can’t order one today, just giving your child a chance to look at a variety of child friendly masks will help take away the scary element.
Consider accessories- There will be ‘mask breaks’ throughout your child’s day. Consider adding a fanny pack to your child’s wardrobe. (Did you save yours from the 70’s??) This will give your child a clean spot to put their mask when they are outside and an easy access to grabbing it to put back on.
There are also some cool lanyards out there that hook onto your child’s mask. Look for the break-away ones that will come detached when you give it a good yank- so there’s no choking hazard. These lanyards also allow your child to keep their mask close and clean when having a mask break. Google child mask lanyards for lots of choices.
Getting comfortable Seeing Masks
[image error]Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com
Spend some time desensitizing your child to masks. You want your child to have experienced that ‘people wear masks and I am still safe’. So, have your child see people in masks in public, like at the grocery store. Have them spend time with people they know who are wearing masks, such as their family members or close friends.
Getting Comfortable Wearing Masks
Wearing a mask gets easier as you get used to it. Pick times throughout the day to practice wearing a mask- and make it fun. Motivate your child with a fun activity paired with mask wearing. “Let’s walk around the block in our mask, and then let’s have a snack.” Motivate your child to wear a mask during a fun activity like playing a game or watching a favourite show.
[image error]Photo by Gustavo Fring on Pexels.com
Your Attitude Counts!
As a parent you are dealing with a lot of anxiety here! So, this is where you’ll need to draw on your inner actor and put a smile on your face. Your attitude toward these masks will make a huge impact on how your child will cope when wearing one. Of course, you are going to be understanding and listen when your child talks about discomfort in wearing the mask. But comments about your child being in danger, or that the ‘masks are ridiculous’ will only make your child more anxious. Keep it light. Keep it fun. And check that you are having those anxious conversations out of earshot of your young child.
August 24, 2020
What You Need to Know about the Bathroom at School
“I can totally relate to Raj!” That’s what I hear every time I describe my new book, RAJ’S RULE (FOR THE BATHROOM AT SCHOOL) (Owlkids Books, 2020). Raj has a list of tips to help him get through an entire day at school- without ever using the bathroom. Although I, too, appreciate Raj’s preference for his bathroom at home (that’s the bathroom he knows) I’ve seen firsthand, as an ECE with over 30 years experience, the discomfort this causes, and how it stops a child from getting the most out of their day at school. So the moral of the story? Go when you need to- even at school!
And I’ve compiled 5 TIPS FOR SCHOOL BATHROOM SUCCESS. Because, let’s be honest- our kids are out of practice, because for months, they’ve not only stayed at home, they’ve ‘gone’ at home.
I’VE GOTTA GO! Our kids may have gone back to relying on a parent to remind them when they should use the washroom. Give your child ownership in this department so they can start thinking for themselves.
HOLD ON A MINUTE In a class full of children, kids will sometimes have to wait their turn to go to the washroom. Encourage your child to not wait until the last minute (you know-that ‘dancing stage’) before taking a trip to the washroom.
CLOTHES CALL I realize those tights match perfectly with that headband, and those jeans are super cute, but can your kids undo the button or get the tights down quickly on their own— especially if ‘it’s an emergency!!’? Before your child’s clothes come home in a bag you might want to rethink that belt. The elastic waist is your child’s friend!
CLEAN SWEEP I know you do a more efficient job in the wiping department, but especially in our currently socially distanced world- your child will be on their own in the school stall and practice makes perfect. And make sure to encourage kids to be like Raj and independently ‘soak for a second and scrub every finger’ when washing hands.
*** HAPPENS Kk accidents happen, and it’s always better to be prepared. On the off chance your child doesn’t make it to the washroom, make sure they have a change of clothes that can be easily accessed without making a big scene. (bonus tip- don’t forget to pack extra socks!)
I hope you’ll pick up a copy of RAJ’S RULE (FOR THE BATHROOM AT SCHOOL) (@owlkidspublishing) fabulously illustrated by Hatem Aly. And hey- I’m available for school visits virtually this year! I can customize a visit, and pop right into your classroom- wherever your school is located! Send me an email at lanabutton3@gmail.com to find out more, or check out my website at http://www.lanabutton.com
Check out my picture books that encourage self-reliance, empathy, resilience and anti-bullying.
I am (optimistically) wishing you a year of fun, health and lots of learning this school year.
What You Need to Know about the Bathroom at School
“I can totally relate to Raj!” That’s what I hear every time I describe my new book, RAJ’S RULE (FOR THE BATHROOM AT SCHOOL) (Owlkids Books, 2020). Raj has a list of tips to help him get through an entire day at school- without ever using the bathroom. Although I, too, appreciate Raj’s preference for his bathroom at home (that’s the bathroom he knows) I’ve seen firsthand, as an ECE with over 30 years experience, the discomfort this causes, and how it stops a child from getting the most out of their day at school. So the moral of the story? Go when you need to- even at school!
And I’ve compiled 5 TIPS FOR SCHOOL BATHROOM SUCCESS. Because, let’s be honest- our kids are out of practice, because for months, they’ve not only stayed at home, they’ve ‘gone’ at home.
I’VE GOTTA GO! Our kids may have gone back to relying on a parent to remind them when they should use the washroom. Give your child ownership in this department so they can start thinking for themselves.
HOLD ON A MINUTE In a class full of children, kids will sometimes have to wait their turn to go to the washroom. Encourage your child to not wait until the last minute (you know-that ‘dancing stage’) before taking a trip to the washroom.
CLOTHES CALL I realize those tights match perfectly with that headband, and those jeans are super cute, but can your kids undo the button or get the tights down quickly on their own— especially if ‘it’s an emergency!!’? Before your child’s clothes come home in a bag you might want to rethink that belt. The elastic waist is your child’s friend!
CLEAN SWEEP I know you do a more efficient job in the wiping department, but especially in our currently socially distanced world- your child will be on their own in the school stall and practice makes perfect. And make sure to encourage kids to be like Raj and independently ‘soak for a second and scrub every finger’ when washing hands.
*** HAPPENS Kk accidents happen, and it’s always better to be prepared. On the off chance your child doesn’t make it to the washroom, make sure they have a change of clothes that can be easily accessed without making a big scene. (bonus tip- don’t forget to pack extra socks!)
I hope you’ll pick up a copy of RAJ’S RULE (FOR THE BATHROOM AT SCHOOL) (@owlkidspublishing) fabulously illustrated by Hatem Aly. And hey- I’m available for school visits virtually this year! I can customize a visit, and pop right into your classroom- wherever your school is located! Send me an email at lanabutton3@gmail.com to find out more, or check out my website at http://www.lanabutton.com
Check out my picture books that encourage self-reliance, empathy, resilience and anti-bullying.
I am (optimistically) wishing you a year of fun, health and lots of learning this school year.
February 2, 2020
World Read Aloud Day
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World Read Aloud Day is Wednesday Feb, 5, 2020! It’s a day to celebrate the joy of reading aloud. Literacy is a fundamental human right that belongs to everyone. The best part of reading out loud is that it is a shared reading experience, that not only increases the listener’s vocabulary and literary skills, but also can create a special bond between the reader and the listener. It’s powerful stuff! On February 5th, World Read Aloud Day, join millions of readers, writers, and listeners from communities across the world as we come together to honor the joy and power of reading and sharing stories. Let’s continue to expand the definition and scope of global literacy. Celebrate World Read Aloud Day by grabbing a book, and someone you love, and read out loud.
Read aloud tips[image error]
Read It Ahead of Time Reading through that story ahead of time gives you a head’s up on the wording, the rhythm and the pronunciation of the story as well as any story surprises. Your read aloud is much more likely to be a winning performance for your listeners if you scan through it before you read it out loud.
Pause Before the Page Turn. Give your listeners lots of time to take in the illustrations before you flip to the next page.
Speak Up and Slow Down. Your listeners will take in more of the story if you give them time to process what you are saying. Use your stage voice and you are more likely to keep their attention.
Post Book Recap- Talk about the story after it is finished. Ask the listeners, who was in the story, where did it take place, what was the problem and how was the problem solved. No wrong answers here! Think of this as a mini book club conversation. Give your listeners the opportunity to share their thoughts on the story, and the read aloud story will have more of a lasting impact.
Re-Read Those Favourites- Picture books are intended to be read over and over again. Enjoy a favourite! This gives the listener an opportunity to ‘visit an old friend’ as well as discover something new in a familiar story.
Try Something New- Don’t be afraid to introduce your listeners to a new topic- even a heavy handed topic can be covered in a softer, gentler way through the pages of a picture book.[image error]
World Read Aloud Day
[image error]
World Read Aloud Day is Wednesday Feb, 5, 2020! It’s a day to celebrate the joy of reading aloud. Literacy is a fundamental human right that belongs to everyone. The best part of reading out loud is that it is a shared reading experience, that not only increases the listener’s vocabulary and literary skills, but also can create a special bond between the reader and the listener. It’s powerful stuff! On February 5th, World Read Aloud Day, join millions of readers, writers, and listeners from communities across the world as we come together to honor the joy and power of reading and sharing stories. Let’s continue to expand the definition and scope of global literacy. Celebrate World Read Aloud Day by grabbing a book, and someone you love, and read out loud.
Read aloud tips[image error]
Read It Ahead of Time Reading through that story ahead of time gives you a head’s up on the wording, the rhythm and the pronunciation of the story as well as any story surprises. Your read aloud is much more likely to be a winning performance for your listeners if you scan through it before you read it out loud.
Pause Before the Page Turn. Give your listeners lots of time to take in the illustrations before you flip to the next page.
Speak Up and Slow Down. Your listeners will take in more of the story if you give them time to process what you are saying. Use your stage voice and you are more likely to keep their attention.
Post Book Recap- Talk about the story after it is finished. Ask the listeners, who was in the story, where did it take place, what was the problem and how was the problem solved. No wrong answers here! Think of this as a mini book club conversation. Give your listeners the opportunity to share their thoughts on the story, and the read aloud story will have more of a lasting impact.
Re-Read Those Favourites- Picture books are intended to be read over and over again. Enjoy a favourite! This gives the listener an opportunity to ‘visit an old friend’ as well as discover something new in a familiar story.
Try Something New- Don’t be afraid to introduce your listeners to a new topic- even a heavy handed topic can be covered in a softer, gentler way through the pages of a picture book.[image error]
January 20, 2020
I Read Canadian Day
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February 19th is the inaugural I Read Canadian Day. This is a national day to celebrate Canadian books for young people. On this day, let’s all Read Canadian to celebrate the richness, diversity and breadth of Canadian literature!
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I’m reading out loud from MY TEACHER’S NOT HERE! in this promotional video for I Read Canadian https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuFn-KOKJ2w
-Librarians- Display those amazing Canadian books so they are easy to grab. Sign your school up for this fun day at http://www.ireadcanadian.com/day. It’s fast, it’s free, and it supports everything you love about literature!
-Teachers- schedule 15 minutes into your day, this February 19th, 2020, to stop and read out loud to your students from a Canadian book. Or have your students read themselves from a Canadian book of their choosing. Or invite a Canadian author in to read from their books. Or do all three!!
Come on Canada! On February 19th let’s all read a Canadian book and share our reading experience with family and friends, and on social media. There is so much to celebrate with Canadian books! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuFn-KOKJ2w
[image error]
Canadians love a great picture book, including Calgary Flames Captain Mark Giordano, seen reading MY TEACHER’S NOT HERE! (Kids Can Press, 2018)
I Read Canadian Day
[image error]
February 19th is the inaugural I Read Canadian Day. This is a national day to celebrate Canadian books for young people. On this day, let’s all Read Canadian to celebrate the richness, diversity and breadth of Canadian literature!
[image error]
I’m reading out loud from MY TEACHER’S NOT HERE! in this promotional video for I Read Canadian https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuFn-KOKJ2w
-Librarians- Display those amazing Canadian books so they are easy to grab. Sign your school up for this fun day at http://www.ireadcanadian.com/day. It’s fast, it’s free, and it supports everything you love about literature!
-Teachers- schedule 15 minutes into your day, this February 19th, 2020, to stop and read out loud to your students from a Canadian book. Or have your students read themselves from a Canadian book of their choosing. Or invite a Canadian author in to read from their books. Or do all three!!
Come on Canada! On February 19th let’s all read a Canadian book and share our reading experience with family and friends, and on social media. There is so much to celebrate with Canadian books! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuFn-KOKJ2w
[image error]
Canadians love a great picture book, including Calgary Flames Captain Mark Giordano, seen reading MY TEACHER’S NOT HERE! (Kids Can Press, 2018)
