Valarie Budayr's Blog, page 32
January 7, 2018
Amazing Diverse Books Recommendations in honor of #ReadYourWorld
Welcome to Weekend Links! This is my once-a-week round up of the children’s books and kidlit that has crossed my path during my online travels. With Multicultural Children’s Book Day just around the corner (1/27/18 to be exact), as you can imagine my world is filled with eye-catching and relevant book titles that are a perfect fit for our diverse kids’ books online holiday.
There are many, many standouts…too many to mention in one blog post, but for now I’d like to share my recent list of Diverse Books Recommendations. Enjoy!
Tessie Tames Her Tongue by Melissa Martin, Ph.D.
Tessie is bright and eager to share all the stories about her life. She talks to her parents, her little brother, the bus driver, her teacher, and her classmates. But when she gets chatty, she’s loud . . . and talks with her mouth full of food . . . and doesn’t give anyone else a chance to say what’s on their minds. After her little brother complains and her classmates ignore her, Tessie knows it’s time to tame her talkative tongue. With help from her school counselor, Tessie learns to talk less and listen more.
This colorful and well written diverse picture book is just as impress as the person who wrote it! Melissa is Ohio Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) and this book is a “must read” for 2018.
Titles from Tuttle
Tuttle Publishing always has beautiful diverse books for kids and the ones that I’ve seen for 2017/2018 do not disappoint.
My First Book of Korean Words is a beautifully illustrated book that introduces young children to Korean language and culture through everyday words.
This Vietnamese children’s book teaches in a playful way—combining the familiar ABC rhyming structure with vivid illustrations to encourage young children’s natural language learning abilities. Words kids use every day in English are joined by words unique to Vietnamese culture to give kids a glimpse of Vietnamese life and to show how, despite cultural differences, children all over the world have a lot in common.
My First Book of Chinese Words introduces young children to basic words and concepts in the Chinese language through colorful rhymes and beautiful imagery.
Tales Our Abuelitas Told: A Hispanic Folktale Selection by Isabel Campoy and Almo Flor Ada
If I could sum up the books from both of these authors in one word it would be enchanting.
Both of these amazing author have a multitude of beautiful diverse pictures books and this pair has done several collaborative books as well. Tales Our Abuelitas Told: A Hispanic Folktale Selection is one of those books.
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! by Alva Sachs
Justin, Mario, and Marcus are best friends. Saturday is their favorite day! They wait all week to hang out together, but this Saturday is different. What happened? It takes all three of them and their dads to make this Saturday the best ever.
Anyone who has boys will read this book and smile 
January 2, 2018
First Snow by Bomi Park (and creative crafts with snow!)
So as the frost begins to form gorgeous patterns on the window of my study, and the fluffy whiteness of winter begins to flitter down from the sky, I think it might be a perfect time to share this wonderful book by Bomi Park.
First Snow by Bomi Park (Chronicle Books): There’s something magical about the first snow fall of the year. This little girl is woken by the pat pat pat of the first snowflakes on her window. She’s drawn outside by the magic white flakes and starts rolling her first snowman of the year, followed by her puppy friend. The longer she rolls her snow ball, the farther she gets into the forest. Then she comes upon an entire field of children making snowmen. It’s the magic of the first snow!
Look out. Now look up. From the sky one flake falls, then another. And just like that—it’s snowing.
In this beautiful book from debut creator Bomi Park, a young girl wakes up to the year’s first snowy day. From her initial glimpse out the window to her poignant adventures—rolling a snowman, making snow angels—the girl’s quiet quests are ones all young readers will recognize. Simple, muted text and exquisite, evocative art conjure the excitement of a day spent exploring the wonder of snow—and the magic that, sometimes literally, such a day brings. As subtly joyful as a snow day itself, this book will find its home in the hearts of young adventurers everywhere.
Most kids are on winter break right now for the holidays and if your world is a little ‘flakey’ right now, I encourage you to try making some Snow Cream!
Something To Do: Homemade Snow Cream!
When one is hoping for a giant snowstorm and then one appears, the next thing one should be thinking is, SNOWCREAM. Did you know you can make ice cream out of snow? If by chance today you are in a place where it is snowing you can make yourself a little bowl of magic right now. For the rest of us, we will just have something to look forward to.
8 cups of snow
1/2 cup of milk
1/2 cup of evaporated milk
1/2 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla
Mix milk, vanilla, and sugar until dissolved. Add snow, stir until consistency is thick and creamy. Serve immediately. Might I suggest that it tastes great with chocolate chips or little goodies (small candy) too.
Gimme Some Oven has a step-by-step tutorial on making yummy homemade Snow Cream.
Did you know you can make “Snow Dough” too? Who knew! Get the recipe from Happy Home Fairy HERE.
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Here’s another idea for great “snowed-in” reading! The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is an Enhanced Digital eBook for Kids that is an entertaining and educational children’s book enhanced with animations, games, recipes, videos, and more providing hours of fun for kids and parents alike.
Based on the beloved story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory this interactive children’s ebook is filled with action and adventure. With over 20 crafts and activities (including creating Gobstopper Gum and Chocolate Rivers, golden tickets, handmade Willy Wonka hats, etc.), this beautifully illustrated ebook re-lives the wonder and amazement through Willy Wonka’s world of magic. Grab your copy of Charlie at iTunes ASAP!
Don’t have an Apple device, but still want to experience the thrill, activities and magic of The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory? This entertaining and educational children’s book based on the beloved story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is available in PDF form! With over 20 crafts and activities (including creating Gobstopper Gum and Chocolate Rivers, golden tickets, handmade Willy Wonka hats, etc.), this beautifully illustrated PDF re-lives the wonder and amazement through Willy Wonka’s world of magic.
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December 28, 2017
Creating a Hans Christian Andersen-inspired Storyteller’s Bag
In the corner of our family room is a red leather bag…a Storyteller’s Bag, filled with items such as a wreath of Tibetan bells, a polar bear snow globe, felted toy animals, chopsticks, and our favorite story telling item of them all; a coconut shell half.
Some people might call this a memento bag or simply a place to hold items that inspire a tale from real life exploits. Whatever you call it, it’s a remarkable tool for conversation and connection.
About every six weeks I change the items in the bag. As friends come over it is a common occurrence for one of them to grab the bag and ask for a story. At first it was me telling them the stories from the unique items in our story bag but now they are the ones doing the telling and I am just there ever entranced audience member. Oh how I love how one person starts and another friend picks up the story. Our story bag has led to many wonderful and creative moments of adventure, sorrow, and celebration.
Inspired by the poet and author, Hans Christian Andersen, I’ve created a child-friendly off the shoulder felt story bag that can be your family’s Storyteller’s Bag. I hope your Hans Christian Andersen-inspired Storyteller’s Bag of tales holds as many wonders for you as ours has.
Creating a Hans Christian Andersen-inspired Storyteller’s BagCreating a Hans Christian Andersen-inspired Storyteller’s Bag
What You’ll Need:
• 2 10 x 12 inch pieces of Wool Felt
• 2 3 x 36 inches of wool felt for the straps
• 1 8 x 10 inch sheet of wool felt for the appliqué
• Pins
• Needle
• Embroidery Floss
• All Purpose sewing thread to match
• Sewing machine
Step 1: Pin your appliqué pattern to your 8 x 10 piece of wool.
Step 2. Cut out the appliqué pattern.
Step 3. Fold your felt piece to cut out your 10 x 12 pieces of wool. The fold becomes the bottom of your bag.
Step 4. Cut out two 3 x 36 inch pieces of wool for the straps.
Step 5. On the front of the bag appliqué the felt cut using a whip stitch. Work from underneath the felt appliqué to get a nice hidden stitch.
Step 6. Using your sewing machine, stitch up the two felt pieces for the strap. Make sure to sew it all the way around.
Step 7. Placing the folds one on top of the other with the appliqué on the inside, sew up ONLY the sides. Leave the top and bottom open. This will create a nice tube.
Step 8. Turn it right side out.
Step 9. Press seams
Step 10.Now fold the bag in half. You will have a 4 ply thickness of felt. The four layers should be completely open at the top.
Step 11.Let’s mount the shoulder strap. Place one end of the strap in the right-hand corner of the front appliqué panel.
Step 12.Mount the other end of the strap in the back left corner. This will let the bag hang nicely from the shoulder.
Step 13.Once you’ve pinned your strap in place. Sew up the top on both the front and behind sections
Step 14.Now it’s time to sew up the sides. A quilting sewing machine can handle this with no problem. For those of us who have older machines, you can take off the presser foot or you can sew it up by hand using small straight stitches.
I hope you enjoy your new Storyteller Bag!
If your family loves crafts and inspiration based on children’s classics, then you will love A Year in the Secret Garden; a book based on the classic The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.
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December 21, 2017
The Christmas Horse and the Three Wise Men by Isabelle Brent
The story of The Christmas Horse and the Three Wise Men by Isabelle Brent is the part of the Christmas story that isn’t told.
We all know about Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, and the hardships they face. But Isabelle Brent now tells the story of the Three Wise Men from Safanad the horse’s perspective. He describes the confusion, the rough journey filled with perils, and the fated miracle that they witnessed.
The Christmas horse is on a journey to meet baby Jesus! Join him and his animal friends with the Three Wise Men as they cross snow-capped mountains, swift rivers, and hot deserts to reach the peaceful stable in Bethlehem where baby Jesus lies in a manger. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as captured by Isabelle Brent’s stunning illustrations and experience the wonder as the pure-hearted animals and the wise men finally meet their savior and king. The journey of the Three Wise Men following the star is here told from the point of view of the three courageous animals that carried them: Safanad the horse, Gamali the camel, and Simbalo the elephant. Each one comes from a different land and possesses a unique skill. Together there is no challenge they cannot overcome in their quest to find baby Jesus. Verses from the Gospel help to tell the story. Also included in the illustrations are birds connected through legend with the life and wisdom of Christ.-Amazon
Not only does this story portray another facet of the story of Christmas, but it shows the different races of the Wisemen, creating an accurate, multicultural air to this classic story. The illustrations are beautiful, clear, dreamy, and it is so interesting to hear the story from an animal’s perspective.
Something To Do
1.If you are struggling with what to get your family for christmas, follow the rule of three, like the Wise Men did:
-Something they need
-Something they want
–Something to read
2. Make edible gold, frankincense, and myrhh:
3. Meaning behind the three gifts:
1. Gold – the royal metal that signifies Jesus’s kingship
2. Frankincense – a symbol of prayer, showing Jesus’s relationship as mediator between God and man
3. Myrhh – a burial ointment, symbolizing that Jesus would die for man’s salvation
Author Hannah RialsHANNAH RIALS: A Maryville native and current college student at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Hannah began writing her first novel at age twelve. Eight years later, the result is her new YA novel Ascension; a modern day teenage romance filled with “double-blooded” vampires and revenge-seeking witches. When not spending time with her family and playing with her beloved Corgis, Buddy and Noel, Hannah leads a creative group, crafts and cultivates her writing skills. Connect with Hannah on Facebook, Twitter and via her website.
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December 19, 2017
The Top 50 #KidlitBookReviews and Booklists at Jump Into a Book
Imagine my surprise (and glee!) a few days ago when I noticed that my latest post was actually Jump Into a Book’s 1001 blog post!
That’s ONE THOUSAND (plus one) blog posts on books, activities and sharing my love of children’s literature!
In hindsight I probably shouldn’t have been surprised. I’ve been creating unique book reviews of beautiful children’s books since 2010 and the years have simply flown by.
Proof that, when you are doing something you love, it doesn’t feel like work.
During these last 7+ years, much has changed. My youngest son has graduated High School and is in college, Jump Into a Book has recently undergone a transformation and “update” and I’ve published my fourth book, Dragons Area Real.
AND I know have a side business/project of helping communities build healing gardens, labyrinths and fairy gardens. I am very blessed.
Looking back on my body of work when it comes to Jump Into a Book, I know I have many favorites and I know my readers do as well. So, just for fun, I’d like to share my Top 50 Blog Posts from Jump Into a Book. Give these a peek…you never who what crafts I will be creating or children’s book I will be reviewing!
Something To Do Book Reviews
2009 was the first year I started blogging about kids’ books on this site and one my favorite childhood books, Blueberries for Sal, was one of the books I reviewed in those early days. I updated this popular post again in 2016 as part of my #ReadKidsClassics series. I am still very proud of both posts.
The Dreidel that Wouldn’t Spin | A Hanukkah Picture Book
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
Secret Garden Wednesday has been my way of pulling projects, learning and crafts from my book, A Year in the Secret Garden, to help bring it too life. Here’s a recap:
Anything Roald Dahl is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and this year was no different. Check out my Celebrating Roald Dahl Day with Fun, Freebies and BOOKS post.
The Tomten and the Reynard: A sweet kidlit review to get you in the Holiday Spirit
Sun Bread by Elisa Kleven and Happy Sun Bread Recipe
A Roundup of Courage and Bravery Books for Girls
Honoring Helen Keller: A Helen and Annie Booklist
Olivia’s Birds: How one young author is fighting to Save the Gulf Birds
Words of Peace for Your Alphabet Tree (#bookreview and word activity)
Reminiscing on The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory
Roscoe Welply and Curious George Gets a Medal (& Awesome Rocket Craft!)
The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind
The Conference of the Birds Review and Book Extensions
10 Ways to Make the World More Beautiful with Miss Rumphius
Children of the Tipi: Life in the Buffalo Days
The Bee Tree by Patricia Polacco (and Honey Bee Activities!)
Jump Into a Book’s Most Popular Booklists
Stargazing & Astronomy Booklist for the whole family
22 Books about New York-A New York City BookList for Kids
Raising Global Citizens-Oh To Be in PARIS (A Paris Booklist)
33 Latino Middle Grade Chapter Books You Should Know
Wonderful New Diverse Picture Books honoring Native Americans
Read Around The Continents: 24 Children’s Books About Western Europe
Read Around the Continents: A North America/United States Booklist
Read Around The Continents: Australia/Oceania Reading List
Read Around The Continents: Eastern Europe
Summer Reading Tree: Forming “Roots” for Motivated Readers
Summer Reading Tree- 15 Green Books for Kids
The A-Z Summer Reading Tree: 26 Ways To Encourage Reading This Summer
A Happy 100th Birthday! A National Parks Booklist and More
Notable Women- Celebrating Nature with a Nicola Davies Booklist
The Kindness Booklist for Kids
An Extra Special #DragonsAreReal Booklist for Beginning Readers
If your #YA #readers Like Percy Jackson, Check THIS awesome #booklist!
An Exceptionally Magical Winter Tomte Booklist!
A Holiday and Winter-themed Booklist for Kids
Star Spangled BookList: Reading for the 4th of July
A Norse God and Viking Booklist!
Victories and Adventures
So exciting! My book Dragons Are Real (illustrated by Michael Welply) has been named to Kirkus Reviews’ Best Books of 2016!
Book Pilgrimage | Discovering Harry Potter’s Scotland
Author Astrid Lindgren’s House in Sweden
A Year in the Secret Garden wins Mom’s Choice Award!
And just when I thought it couldn’t get any sweeter, I found out today that Jump Into a Book is #26 on Feedspot’s Top 100 Children’s Book Blogs List! Thank you Feedspot!
How knows what excitement and book-ish fun 2018 will bring. THANK YOU for your support.
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December 17, 2017
Reminiscing on The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory
What a busy month it’s been so far! Running here, crafting there, and meetings, meetings, meetings (good meetings though). And with Multicultural Children’s Book Day just round the corner (1/27/18) it’s likely to get even more hectic.
But as the days fly past, and the New Year gets closer, it seems natural to look back and reflect. It honestly feels like just yesterday that I was brainstorming like a giddy schoolgirl with a secret to share. To date, The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, an enhanced, interactive digital ebook for kids, continues to delight Willy Wonka fans nationwide.
The project was my second book, an enhanced digital ebook for kids, called The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and The Chocolate Factory Fast forward a handful of years and “Charlie” is now one of 4 books that I’ve written and published. Though The Ultimate Guide to Charlie was not my first book, it was an innovative and ground-breaking project and oh-what-a-journey-it was!
The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory enhanced digital ebook for kids.Inspired by the love of a good story, some imagination, a sense of adventure and a good dose of curiosity, children and the adults who care for them can take flight into one of our most beloved books, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The Ultimate Guide presents several experiential activities in the areas of crafting, cooking, and game-playing as well as exploring many facets of candy production, and meeting the author himself, Roald Dahl. Each step and activity leads us further into the story to bring more and more of it to life, leaving a lasting impression of an adventure and journey share….
A Little Back History:
Many people ask me how the idea of book jumping and the concept of The Ultimate Guide to Charlie was born.
The idea for this book was born a long time ago when my girls were 6 and 9. My mother had recently passed away and the girls were really sad. Each one had a special momento of my mom’s to remember her by, but daily they would ask me questions about her. What was her favorite food? What made her laugh? What was she like as a child? At one point I was asked what were her favorite books and that’s when I came up with the idea for our mother/daughter book club called Book Adventures.
The first book we jumped into was Heidi, 13 years and a few hundred books later, Book Adventures turned into Jump into a Book, and now a very Ultimate Guide. Once we started living inside the pages of our books, the kids realized that they no longer needed to wait until the next book, or book adventure meeting to relive their favorite stories. One of our family favorite books just happened to be Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It’s a book you can find my children pretend-playing inside nearly on a weekly basis.
Then I met the incredibly talented Roscoe Welply. Roscoe is the graphic designer/ illustrator and book designer of not only “Charlie” but The Fox Diaries as well.
Roscoe and I met at Odesk (now Upwork). It’s a website where one can go to hire people they need for their work. At the time I was putting The Fox Diaries together and needed a really good cover. I went to Odesk and looked through a few portfolios. The 2nd or 3rd portfolio was Roscoe’s. As I continued to look at different people’s work I kept comparing them to Roscoe. Finally it dawned on me that if I was comparing everyone else to Roscoe that I should probably just ask Roscoe to do the book cover. He did a brilliant cover which graces all versions of The Fox Diaries and he designed the interior as well.
Together we embarked on this very long, but very magical journey or creating The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; and enhanced, interactive, digital ebook that is available on iTunes.
The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory enhanced digital ebook.
Why is “Charlie” so special? Charlie brings together the awe and wonder of enhanced digital ebooks and the family activity of book jumping, and does so within one of the most beloved children’s tales of all time. Won’t you join the adventure?
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Welcome to The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!
Enter a world where collaborative play is woven into the fabric of our everyday family life. The Ultimate Guide to Charlie will open the door to transforming relationships, encouraging new perspectives, and indulging in the happiness and the joy of innovating with your children.
Who is Charlie? The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is an interactive, adventure that leads us through the Chocolate Factory with stops along the way to create, laugh, and learn. It reawakens the passion and idea of “jumping” inside the pages of this book with the knowledge that each chapter is a gateway into a magical world. Now available on iTunes, it’s your opportunity to truly experience where art, literature and technology meet allowing you to feel the story like never before.
Charlie was born of a unique collaboration between co-authors Valarie Budayr and Roscoe Welply, this dynamic duo along with Kite Readers have crafted an enchanting world that leaps from the pages, and coaxes the reader to immerse themselves in the adventures that await them at the Chocolate Factory.
What You Can Expect with Charlie:
A bridge between the “plugged” and “unplugged” world for families
A book that brings families together reading and enjoying their imaginations.
Creation of an atmosphere where reading becomes a family event instead of a solitary act.
The option to educate, inform, and entice children to want to know more about the world they live in.
The delight of pulling the story off the pages, and the act of bringing the pages to LIFE.
Gather your family and come along on a magical journey into one of the most beloved children’s books of all time to experience a story like never before. You will have a front row seat to this delightfully illustrated and fabulously written children’s enhanced digital e-book that will come to life with not only a great story, but over 20 activities and crafts that will spark their imagination and awaken their inner child.
Are you read for an adventure? Enter HERE to start the Charlie experience.
Disclaimer: This book is not affiliated or associated with the author, publisher, or distributors of Roald Dahl’s book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
If you are looking for a fun digital and interactive children’s story inspired by a kids’ classic story, you will love The Ultimate Guide to Charlie out into the World.
Enter a world where collaborative play is woven into the fabric of our everyday family life. The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will open the door to transforming relationships, encouraging new perspectives, and indulging in the happiness and the joy of innovating with your children.
Who is Charlie? The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is an interactive, adventure that leads us through the Chocolate Factory with stops along the way to create, laugh, and learn. It reawakens the passion and idea of “jumping” inside the pages of this book with the knowledge that each chapter is a gateway into a magical world. Now available on iTunes, it’s your opportunity to truly experience where art, literature and technology meet allowing you to feel the story like never before.
Charlie was born of a unique collaboration between co-authors Valarie Budayr and Roscoe Welply, this dynamic duo along with Kite Readers have crafted an enchanting world that leaps from the pages, and coaxes the reader to immerse themselves in the adventures that await them at the Chocolate Factory.
What You Can Expect with Charlie:
A bridge between the “plugged” and “unplugged” world for families
A book that brings families together reading and enjoying their imaginations.
Creation of an atmosphere where reading becomes a family event instead of a solitary act.
The option to educate, inform, and entice children to want to know more about the world they live in.
The delight of pulling the story off the pages, and the act of bringing the pages to LIFE.
Gather your family and come along on a magical journey into one of the most beloved children’s books of all time to experience a story like never before. You will have a front row seat to this delightfully illustrated and fabulously written children’s enhanced digital e-book that will come to life with not only a great story, but over 20 activities and crafts that will spark their imagination and awaken their inner child.
Are you read for an adventure? Enter HERE to start the Charlie experience or grab your download on iTunes.
Disclaimer: This book is not affiliated or associated with the author, publisher, or distributors of Roald Dahl’s book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
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December 15, 2017
The Magician’s Elephant by Kate DiCamillo review and kirigami activity!
I’ve loved the book The Magician’s Elephant by Kate DiCamillo for years.
This sweet tale is basically about when a fortuneteller’s tent appears in the market square of the city of Baltese and orphan Peter Augustus Duchene knows the questions that he needs to ask. This boy is filled with questions about his missing family and the fortuneteller’s mysterious rely that an elephant will lead him to the answers he seeks sets off a chain of events so remarkable, so impossible, that you will hardly dare to believe it’s true.
Around the same time the very astute Madam LaVaughn went to the theater in the evening to see a magic act. The magician, only intending to make a bouquet of lilies appear, instead made a real life elephant come tumbling down out of the ceiling and landing directly on Madam LaVaughn. Luckily she lives but is crippled. Now she is imprisoned in her wheel chair, the magician is taken to prison, the elephant is locked up in the stable and Peter, the young boy who went to buy some fish but found his fortune instead, must try to meet this elephant to find his sister. Anymore I cannot tell you.
Recently I re-encountered this old friend when I was searching for new book titles from Multicultural Children’s Book Day Medallion Level Sponsor, Candlewick Press. From one page to another I could not leave these old friends; the characters in this incredible book. I re-read it in one sitting and were very sad to see the last page.
Without knowing it, this lovely elephant is a catalyst for change. He opens the hearts and doors of many to an understanding of how we are connected and how each one of us holds our own magic.
Something to Do : KiriGami
So we’ve been talking about an elephant which comes tumbling through the ceiling. That’s not any sort of magic so we can’t very well do any sort of elephant project. Today we are venturing into the world of kirigami.This is the japanese art of paper-folding and cutting.
1. Take an 8in x 8in piece of paper
2. Fold it in half.
3. (photo above) Place the fold you just did on top and fold it in half again.
4. (photo above) Fold it diagonally, with the previous fold on the left.
5. Trace the elephant pattern below onto you triangle
Very Important Note: Do not cut off the tail, back leg or the swoop in the trunk. If for some reason you transfer the pattern on the wrong side of the triangle you will come up with an “x” of elephants,which is beautiful in it’s own right. To get the square just draw your pattern on the other side of the triangle.
You can use origami paper or scrapbook paper. I also made an elephant square out of 4inx4in origami paper and set it into my large square to make “art”.
I must give credit where it is due. Today’s art project was inspired by The Little Traveler’s. This mom lovingly documents the journey of her two girls as the travel around the world. To explore the sights,sounds,tastes, and cultures of some beautiful countries have a look here.
One More Thing-TODAY (12/15/17) is the LAST DAY of the Audrey Press’ Holiday Book Love Sale!
As the holiday season approaches, consider adding the gift of books to your shopping list. There are many wonderful booklists available for parents looking to give their child the gift of reading and adventure. A book makes a great gift because they are meaningful, beautiful, portable, appealing, and inexpensive and it’s a gift that can be opened again and again. Books are the perfect gift for any age and a gift that doesn’t require batteries or sizing instruction!
If you would like to get started on your family reading adventure, or would just like to add to your family bookshelf, Audrey Press has some special deals on their catalog of books to get readers and gift-givers on their merry way. From November 27th to December 15th, give the gift of reading, adventure and education at extra-special “extended” Black Friday prices!
Go HERE to get the scoop on all of the Beautiful Books for Kids that can be purchased at Special Holiday Prices! Read on!
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December 12, 2017
Swedish Santa Lucia Traditions | Lucia: Child of Light
My house is buzzing with excitement as my family and prepare for Lucia Day on December 13th.
On this special day, many Swedish people celebrate the legacy of Lucia and the coming of the light with coffee, saffron buns, ginger snaps, and wonderful singing. In addition to the story of the Svensson children, the book also includes the Lucia Song, recipes for ginger snaps and saffron buns, a short story of the Lucia legend, plus two patterns for the Lucia gown and star boy outfit.
And of course Swedish children’s books that embrace this ethnic holiday also have a special place in our house hold. Over the years I’ve shared several family favorites, and Lucia Child of Light is one of those books. Here is a new Swedish Santa Lucia Books and Traditions for me to share with you. Enjoy!
Swedish Santa Lucia Traditions | Lucia Child of Light
Out from the long dark winter comes a young and beautiful maiden with a wreath of candles on her head. Surrounded by her court of candle holding friends, wand holding star boys, and all of them singing of the hope and assurance that the light will return once again.
I took this book with me as I moved all over the globe just to make sure that I could share the story of Lucia wherever I went. It is and was my manual about the how’s and why’s of the St. Lucia celebration. Along with recipes, this book contains really fun tips to make sure that your Lucia celebration is fun and beautiful. Also included is the Santa Lucia song in both Swedish and English.
Swedish Santa Lucia Traditions | Making Glögg
Not in either of the books we have highlighted here,”Lucia,child of light”, or “Lucia Morning in Sweden” contain the very famous beverage we drink on this day as well. Glögg is a hot spicy drink which is drank throughout the whole holiday season but a huge pot of it is always brewing on my stove top for Lucia.
Glögg
· 4 cups of apple or grape juice
· ¼ cup of sugar
· 18 whole cloves
· 8 whole cardamom pods
· 1 cinnamon stick
· 1 piece of fresh ginger 1 inch long
· Serve with raisins and almonds
In a cooking pot pour your juice of choice and add all of the spices. Turn the heat onto medium and cook until the sugar has melted. Cover and leave it standing for an hour. Strain off the spices. Right before serving reheat and place in a thermos, glögg pot or slow cooker to keep it warm. For serving place into a cup or mug and top with raisins and almonds.
I thought I would share our tried and true family recipe for saffron buns. If you get the wrong recipe the buns turn out to be like stones. The recipe in the book is similar to ours but we do some prep work that guarantees the success of our buns. It seems I’m a little biased about Lucia buns. I want everyone to have a postive and beautiful experience.
This book sets the mood just perfectly.
Swedish Santa Lucia Traditions | Saffron Buns or Lussekattor pronounced “Lucy cat-tor”
Lucia Saffron Buns
Ingredients:
·1 package of dry yeast
·¼ cup of warm water
·¾ cup of milk
·1 ½ cup stick of butter
·1 tsp of saffron threads
·½ cup sugar
·¼ tsp of salt
·1 cup of raisins
·2 eggs
·31/2 to 4 cups of flour
·1 beaten egg
Directions
1. In a bowl place one cup of raisins in warm water covering the raisins. This is called “plumping”.
2. In a large mixing bowl dissolve the yeast in warm water.
3. While the yeast is proofing, in a pot scald the milk and then add the butter into the milk and heat gently until it has melted. Once melted, take off the burner and let it cool until it is luke warm.
4. Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Lay the saffron threads on a pieces of parchment paper and place on a cookie sheet. Place the cookie sheet in the oven for about 5 minutes. Once the saffron is toasted, take it out of the oven, fold the parchment paper over and roll over the saffron with a rolling pin until the saffron is in a powder form. Add the saffron to the milk and butter mixture.
5. Add the milk,butter,saffron mixture as well as the sugar, salt, eggs and drained raisins to the yeast mixture. In your kitchen aid or other mix master, beat until blended. It should be smooth and satiny.
6. Mix in half of the flour. Once it is blended add the remaining flour gradually until each addition is blended well. After all of the flour has been mixed in, let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
7. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured board. Knead for 10 minutes or until the dough is smooth and satiny.
8. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl , cover with a dish-towel and let raise for until doubled. This will take about 1 hour.
9. Place parchment paper on two large cookie sheets.
10. After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 32 equal pieces.
11. Cover all pieces with a dish-towel .
12. Taking a piece of dough, roll it into an 8 inch rope. Shape it into a bun, S shape, snail or pretzel.
13. To make even fancier shapes take two 8 inch ropes and make crosses, butterflies, or twisted ropes.
14. As you finish each shape place it on the cookie sheet. Once a sheet in completely full, cover with a dish-towel to let it rise for 35 minutes.
15. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.
16. Beat and egg in a bowl. Using a pastry brush paint the egg wash over the buns completely.
17. Sprinkle with pearl sugar (optional)
18. Place in oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
19. Buns are done when they are golden brown.
20. This recipe makes about 20 buns.
Don’t those look yummy?
If you would like more information about the Santa Lucia holiday traditions, Santa Lucia inspired crafts and even more Swedish treat idea, grab my FREE pdf download HERE. Even though the official Santa Lucia holiday is passed (December 13th) there’s no better time than the present to share these ideas, traditions and treats with your family. Consider it my gift to you this holiday season. Thank you and ENJOY.
The post Swedish Santa Lucia Traditions | Lucia: Child of Light appeared first on .
December 10, 2017
Weekend Links | Books and Activities about Understanding Politics
When in comes to politics and presidencies, both are sporting a bit of tarnish thanks to the current state of affairs. But as mentors and educators we need to keep reminding the next generation of citizens that both contains facts, people and history that all Americans need to be proud of.
So my focus with this week’s Weekend Links to shine a positive spotlight on books and activities about elections, politics and Presidents that young reader will enjoy:
The Mom Gene has a great article about 4 Ways to Make Your Kid a Conscientious Citizen
50 Things You Should Know About American Presidents published by the QEB publishing.
Everything you should know about US presidents is broken down into 50 bite-sized chunks. Every president is covered, from the first person to take office George Washington, to our current US president, Barack Obama. Fascinating facts are included on each page, for example, did you know that Franklin D. Roosevelt is the longest serving president ? There are also details about the US political system, clearly stating the changes that have occurred from the 17th century until today.
This is a very colorful book and perfect for reluctant readers. I say this because reluctant readers love little snippets of information as opposed to chapter books. This book is well suited for ages 8 to 12. It has become a greatly loved edition on our breakfast table.
I adore this If I were President… work sheet from Sweet Intregrations.
ABC Teacher has a very interesting color poster outlining the U.S. presidential election process from a candidate announcing his/her intention to run to the presidential inauguration.
This collection of books uses humor, amazingly unknown facts, and some history thrown in to encourage and inspire an up-close look at American Presidential politics.
President Squid is a hilarious picture book from Caldecott award winner Aaron Reynolds. With a good deal of tongue and cheek it explores the ideal qualities of a good president. One resident of the sea, Squid, feels he would be perfect for the job. Why you ask ? Well because he lives in a big house, know a lot about lots of things, does all the talking, bosses people around, but mostly importantly, he wears a tie. That’s all anyone needs to be president right?
Here’s the link to more Presidential Fun Kit to create all these fun Election-themed activities.
What types of Election/Presidential activities has your family experienced?
One More Thing-It’s time for the 2nd Annual Audrey Press’ Holiday Book Love Sale!
As the holiday season approaches, consider adding the gift of books to your shopping list. There are many wonderful booklists available for parents looking to give their child the gift of reading and adventure. A book makes a great gift because they are meaningful, beautiful, portable, appealing, and inexpensive and it’s a gift that can be opened again and again. Books are the perfect gift for any age and a gift that doesn’t require batteries or sizing instruction!
If you would like to get started on your family reading adventure, or would just like to add to your family bookshelf, Audrey Press has some special deals on their catalog of books to get readers and gift-givers on their merry way. From November 27th to December 15th, give the gift of reading, adventure and education at extra-special “extended” Black Friday prices!
Go HERE to get the scoop on all of the Beautiful Books for Kids that can be purchased at Special Holiday Prices! Read on!
The post Weekend Links | Books and Activities about Understanding Politics appeared first on .
December 7, 2017
Diverse Holiday Books about Santa Lucia, Hanukkah, Diwali and Kwanzaa Traditions
It never ceases to amaze me how many beautiful and Diverse Holiday Books for kids that there are that celebrate this festive holiday season. Lately I’ve noticed quite a few of these Diverse Holiday Books about Santa Lucia, Hanukkah, Diwali and Kwanzaa Traditions so I thought I share a few that have either landed on my desk or caught my eye. Enjoy!
Diverse Holiday Books | Diwali
Lights, Camera Diwali by Amita Roy Shah
Light, Camera, Diwali! helps children gain a better understanding of Diwali, the Indian festivals of lights. Through this engaging story, children learn how Indian-American families celebrate Diwali in their homes. Dia receives a camera as a Diwali gift and uses it to capture her memories of this special day. She takes photos of her family decorating clay lamps, creating unique rangoli designs, preparing sweets called ladoos, setting off firecrackers and more! This captivating story also helps children learn why Diwali is celebrated. While Dia explores the rituals of Diwali with her camera, children learn about a Prince named Rama who was exiled into a forest for 14 years. After fighting off a demon, he is welcomed back into his city with a “row of lights.” Children learn about how Diwali teaches us that light will overcome darkness and good will conquer evil.
Let’s Celebrate 5 Days of Diwali by Ajanta & Vivek (Published by Bollywood Groove)
This new release is already ranked high on the Amazon Best Seller list and publisher, Bollywood Groove, is also an Author Sponsor for Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2018. I love that this colorful book is part of a multicultural and educational series. Join Maya, Neel and their pet squirrel, Chintu, as they visit India and enjoy this festive holiday. BollyGroove’s vibrant books include, Let’s Celebrate Holi! (Maya & Neel’s India Adventure Series), Let’s Celebrate Ramadan & Eid! (Muslim Festival of Fasting & Sweets), Let’s Celebrate Navratri! (Nine Nights of Dancing & Fun) Let’s Celebrate 5 Days of Diwali! (Maya & Neel’s India Adventure Series), Let’s Visit Mumbai! (Maya & Neel’s India Adventure Series)
Diverse Holiday Books | Hanukkah
Way Too Many Latkes: A Hanukkah in Chelm by Linda Glaser
Faigel makes the best Hanukkah latkes in Chelm, but somehow, this year she’s forgotten how to make them! She sends her husband, Shmuel, to ask the rabbi for help. And in Chelm, the village of fools—oy vey!—this becomes a recipe for disaster!
The Dreidel that Wouldn’t Spin | A Hanukkah Picture Book
The Dreidel That Wouldn’t Spin by Martha Seif Simpson and illustrated by Durga Yael Bernhard is a precious tale which shares an important message of the heart.
A Hanukkah Picture BookTwo days before Hanukkah, a peddler goes to the toymakers shop and sells him a beautifully painted wooden dreidel. This particular dreidel comes just in time because the shop keeper had sold his last dreidel. “Remember,” said the peddler. “That the miracle of Hanukkah cannot be bought. ”
In a strange series of events, two different children bought the dreidel and then returned it the next day insisting the dreidel didn’t spin. How does a dreidel not spin?
Diverse Holiday Books | Kwanza
The Story of Kwanzaa by Donna Washington
Light the candles on the kinara! Fly the bendera, and tell stories from Africa! The festival of Kwanzaa was originated by Dr. Maulana Karenga to honor the customs and history of African Americans. The seven principles of Kwanzaa, called the Nguzo Saba, serve to remind African Americans of the struggles of the past, and also focus on present-day achievements and goals for the future.
The holiday fun continues with activities at the end of the book, including making your own cow-tail switch and baking benne cakes.
Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story by Angela Shelf Medearis
Diverse Holiday Books | Santa Lucia
Lucia Morning in Sweden-Ewa Rydåker: Peek inside the busy Svensson house in Sweden, where Sofie, Louise, and Carl are getting ready for Lucia Day, December 13. Follow their adventures through the day and learn how to create your own Lucia Day celebration. This wonderful book includes recipes for Lucia buns and ginger snaps, words and music to the Santa Lucia song, and patterns for a Lucia gown, plus the legend of Santa Lucia. We have a full post about this book two posts ago.
Those of us with Swedish roots will love this Exceptionally Magical Winter Tomte Booklist
So many books, so little time! What are some of your holiday favorites?
One More Thing-It’s time for the 2nd Annual Audrey Press’ Holiday Book Love Sale!
As the holiday season approaches, consider adding the gift of books to your shopping list. There are many wonderful booklists available for parents looking to give their child the gift of reading and adventure. A book makes a great gift because they are meaningful, beautiful, portable, appealing, and inexpensive and it’s a gift that can be opened again and again. Books are the perfect gift for any age and a gift that doesn’t require batteries or sizing instruction!
If you would like to get started on your family reading adventure, or would just like to add to your family bookshelf, Audrey Press has some special deals on their catalog of books to get readers and gift-givers on their merry way. From November 27th to December 15th, give the gift of reading, adventure and education at extra-special “extended” Black Friday prices!
Go HERE to get the scoop on all of the Beautiful Books for Kids that can be purchased at Special Holiday Prices! Read on!
The Holiday Book Love Sale | Audrey Press’ Gift to YOU
Dragon Activity Guide
Inspired by my award-winning book, Dragons Area Real, I have a free gift for my fellow Dragon-lovers. Grab my FREE Downloadable Dragons Are Real Activity Guide HERE:
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The post Diverse Holiday Books about Santa Lucia, Hanukkah, Diwali and Kwanzaa Traditions appeared first on .
