Tag Archives: preschoolers

January 11, 2024 · 7:00 am

The Sleep Switch : How to help kids fall asleep fast by Laurie McMillan (Book Review)

Does your child find it hard to fall asleep? If they do, then The Sleep Switch is for you!

 

“The Sleep Switch” is a delightful children’s book that captivates young minds while teaching them valuable relaxation techniques. In this enchanting tale, different children discover their own sleep switch—their natural ability to calm their bodies and minds for a peaceful slumber. Through mindfulness, meditation, and gentle breathing practices, they embark on a whimsical journey that sooths every part of their being.

You will appreciate the soothing narrative that guides your little ones toward a restful night’s sleep. With every page, a different child learns to embrace relaxation, taking deep breaths and experiencing the sensations within their bodies. The story lovingly bids goodnight to each part of the body, encouraging a sense of gratitude and relaxation from head to toe.
This book, “The Sleep Switch” combines this age-old wisdom into an easy-to-follow book for children that could help them:

  • Get a better night’s sleep
  • Reduced stress or worry
  • Improve attention
  • Fall asleep faster
  • Establish a lifelong sleep routine
  • And more…

“The Sleep Switch” is not just a story; it’s an essential tool for parents to teach their children how to unwind and find serenity before bedtime. With its charming illustrations and calming words, this book is perfect for children aged 3 and above, helping them drift off into dreamland with ease.

Learning how to relax themselves to sleep will empower your child for a lifetime.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

School, work, chores, errands, sports, hobbies, work-outs, life keeps us moving, but that doesn’t always translate into falling asleep as soon as our head hits the pillow. For many of us, our minds and bodies didn’t get the memo it’s time to power down and recharge our metaphorical batteries. We toss. We turn. We count sheep. We stare at the ceiling or watch the clock in frustration. A child who can’t sleep equals a parent who can kiss sleep goodbye, too. 

The Sleep Switch is an illustrated children’s book, but adults can also benefit from the breathing and relaxation techniques. Breathe in through your nose and out your mouth, simple instructions that can make a big difference in your sleepy time routine. The writer introduced the idea of settling into a comfy sleep position and then saying good night to sixteen body parts, starting at your head and finishing with a “good night” to your toes. With every “good night” spoken, the day’s stresses and excitement get pushed further down until they disappear. A body becomes more relaxed; your head is at peace, and you are ready to enter dreamland. 

As an adult, I found reading this story during the daytime relaxing. The calming words and the illustrations of children resting did cause me to yawn. For that, I recommend including the book in your nap time routine. 

Amazon’s recommended reading age is between 3-9 years. That is a perfect suggested age group. The rhyme scheme would make a fantastic story for independent readers. Everyone, kids and adults, will be amazed by the beautiful, colorful illustrations, especially the glowing string lights (artist: Wathmi de Zoysa). Most importantly, this story should make falling asleep a breeze. 

Read The Sleep Switch by Laurie McMillan and then enjoy the sweet sounds of your snoring child(ren). 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Laurie McMillan is a wife, a mom, a Yaya, inventor, and lifelong meditator.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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January 4, 2024 · 7:00 am

Mama’s Love Language by Elisa Stad (Book Review)

The Flavor of Belonging in Culturally Diverse Families

Jade is a girl who lives in two worlds and, coming from a multicultural family, she’s on a quest to understand her identity and where she truly belongs.

She is trying to find her place in the world but feels different from the other kids at school. Back home, Jade’s parents have their unique approach to love and care. Sometimes Jade is embarrassed by Mama’s accent and she can’t understand why she is not just like any other mother she knows.

The real adventure unfolds when Jade starts rebelling against her mother’s traditional ways of showing love, especially through food. It’s a struggle that takes her on a path of discovery, as she learns about her family’s rich heritage and her mother’s challenging past in Vietnam and as an immigrant.

Jade then discovers that even though Mama doesn’t hug or say I love you, the healing aroma of ginger, green onions, and chicken broth does.

“Mama’s Love Language” is a heartwarming children’s book that addresses the universal theme of belonging and the beauty of cultural diversity. Through Jade’s story, children will learn that being different is not only okay but something to be celebrated, and that love can come in many shapes and forms.

This book is ideal for children the ages of 4-9

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

It can be challenging to find your place in the world. People raised in interracial or multicultural households often question their cultural identity. Jade felt like she lived in two worlds since her mother was Chinese and her father was American. She wondered, Who am I? As Jade ponders this question, we gain insight into how she viewed her parents and, subsequently, how she viewed herself. 

Jade mentioned that her dad works late but is always there to tuck her in at night. He loves giving hugs, unlike her Mama. Jade notes that her Mama isn’t a hugger. She does, however, pick her up from school every day. She ensures homework is completed, bellies are full, and vitamins are consumed. Jade mentions being embarrassed by her mother because people had trouble understanding her due to her accent. Jade was annoyed her mother couldn’t pronounce the “d” in her name and always called her “Jay.”

The illustrated group shot of the children’s self-portraits expresses Jade’s need to look and act like someone she’s not. Like Jade, people often try to alter themselves to fit into what society calls “normal,” but that rarely leads to happiness. This scene would create a great talking point with your child or class. Ask them if they ever feel like they don’t belong.

Voices were raised. Tears were shed. However, once tempers calmed down, the family had a real eye-opening conversation. Jade discovered why her Mama was vigilant in making sure her daughter studied hard and ate well. She learned that parents can show love in many ways. Some give hugs and kisses. Some show love through food and caring for you when you’re sick. Jade came to appreciate her Mama and embraced her Chinese heritage, which made everyone happy! 

The story includes a few challenging words that children might need help understanding or pronouncing. But this gives children room to expand their knowledge, which I loved! Share this story with your family and teach children to love where they came from and who they are!

The author’s recommended reading is 4-9 years. 


Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Elisa Stad, for the majority of her career, was a brand and international business executive for luxury goods and consumer product companies. After experiencing working in over 40 countries, she acquired a passion for globalization and the sharing of cultures based on her experiences. Elisa is also focused on inspiring the youth through her efforts in healthcare inequities through Stad Center of Pain, Palliative, and Integrative Medicine and serves on college boards at USC, UCSF and Harvard.

Elisa grew up in a mixed-race household, as a daughter of a Vietnamese refugee mother and American father. She grew up in a multicultural home, searching for identity. She also moved homes often in her childhood including to Asia and within the US to Idaho and California.

She always wanted to share with other young children the beauty of humanity and how we can celebrate our unique gifts. You can find her enjoying ballet, visiting local Asian street markets, practicing yoga, and focusing on her spiritual practice. Elisa lives in Southern California with her husband, 3 children and a bernedoodle.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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January 1, 2024 · 7:00 am

So That’s How They Sleep by Rishi Oberoi (Book Review)

Immerse your little ones in a captivating bedtime adventure filled with soothing storytelling, gentle lullabies, and enchanting illustrations.

This magical book creates a serene atmosphere, ensuring peaceful nights and sweet dreams.

This picture book takes young readers on a delightful journey through a zoo, where they meet adorable animal characters preparing for bed. As you read aloud, you’ll discover the power of storytelling and lullabies in calming young minds and establishing a tranquil sleep routine.

Beyond a simple bedtime story, this book serves as a comprehensive guide for parents and caregivers. It provides valuable insights into sleep training techniques and fostering healthy sleep habits for children. You’ll learn effective strategies to create a relaxing bedtime routine that strengthens the parent-child bond while promoting restful nights.

This book is written for:

  • Toddlers
  • Little children
  • Parents and caregivers who want to help their kids sleep

 

With its beautiful illustrations and engaging tales, this book captures children’s imaginations and invites them into a world of relaxation and comfort.

The charming animal characters and their bedtime rituals make it a perfect sleep aid for toddlers, setting the stage for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Parents, grandparents, and caregivers will appreciate the serene atmosphere and positive messages embedded within the book. It not only fosters a calming bedtime routine but also instills values of empathy and kindness through the adventures of the animal characters.

This book combines storytelling and lullabies. Lullabies are scientifically proven to help babies sleep, stimulate language and cognitive development, and also strengthen the bond between a parent and child.

Order your copy now and join the bedtime adventure!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

People love to visit zoos because they love observing wild and exotic animals up close. It makes them feel a part of their world but under the protection of a wall, trench, or glass. Big or small creatures, adults or babies, we love watching them play, eat, sleep, swim, or enjoy the sun’s rays. When the animals look “happy,” our hearts burst with joy. When an animal is sick, sad, or hurt, our hearts break. One late night, North looked out her bedroom window and listened to the cries of the zoo babies. She wanted to help them, but how?

North had a secret, a special skill no one knew she possessed; she could speak to animals. What a fantastic talent, and one that kids will wish they had, too. Maybe even some adults! At each animal’s “home,” North sang them a lullaby. Her soothing rendition of “Rock-a-Bye Baby” helped the baby monkeys drift off to sleep. All five verses of “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” was sung to the zesty zebras, which was phenomenal since most people, like myself, stop after the first verse. As North visited each baby animal, she lulled them to sleep with her loving tone. Calves, pups, chicks, infants, foals, and adults couldn’t keep their eyes open very long once North started singing.

North serenaded them with famous lullabies like “Row Row Row Your Boat” and “Hush Little Baby, Don’t Say a Word.” The little girl also introduced readers to unfamiliar rhymes and tunes like the ones shared with the elegant elephant and its calf, the beastly bears and their cubs, and the legendary lions and their cubs. 

So That’s How They Sleep is a sweet story that serves many purposes. First, caregivers can teach children the names of nine animals and their “baby name.” Second, it also incorporates songs and rhymes. Last but not least, it creates droopy eyes and causes yawns to appear. It’s the perfect nap time or bedtime story! 

The illustrated baby animals were so cute. This story, as a whole, was adorable. My only complaint was the ending. It led readers to believe that the little girl was the only one awake, yet the picture (before the final text) demonstrated the opposite. I would’ve moved the last line, “One little child…,” before the image of North sleeping. It would have given readers the impression that her soothing lullabies even lulled her to sleep. Despite that one confusing moment, I adored the children’s book and recommend sharing it with your baby, toddler, or preschooler. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤1/2

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Step into the enchanting world of Rishi Oberoi, a devoted father and an extraordinary children’s book author hailing from the captivating landscapes of California. With an innate passion for writing and an unyielding affection for children, Rishi masterfully weaves words into mesmerizing tales that capture the hearts of young readers and parents alike.

What sets Rishi apart from the rest is his remarkable ability to connect with his audience. He possesses an intuitive understanding of what makes young imaginations soar and what fuels their thirst for knowledge. Drawing from his own experiences as a loving father, his adventuresome travels, and his insatiable appetite for learning, Rishi crafts stories that are both fantastical and relatable.

Rishi’s books transcend the boundaries of entertainment as they kindle curiosity, ignite imagination, and instill a lifelong passion for reading. These captivating narratives serve as windows to a world of thought, gently guiding young minds to embrace the joy of discovery. For Rishi, the learning process is as cherished as the final destination, fostering growth, resilience, and unbounded creativity.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of his books, where storytelling takes flight, dreams soar, and the joy of learning knows no bounds. Join him on this remarkable journey as he continues to ignite young minds, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of children.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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December 4, 2023 · 7:00 am

If I Had A Pet Baboon by David Dobbins (Book Review)

Join two young sisters on an imaginative adventure as they play pretend with their toy baboon to explore the wonders of their own world. From the playful antics of the baboon to the far-reaching wonders of the girls’ imaginations, this whimsical story will have readers both young and old transported to a world of surprise and delight. Follow the sisters as they discover the joys and surprises of a world that only exists in their imaginations.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

My eyes were instantly drawn to the cover. I loved the cute, comical snapshot of the family and baboon taped against the bright blue backdrop. It was perfect, and so was the title. I couldn’t wait to dive into the story; kids will be excited to read it, too. 

Kids are always begging their parents for a family pet. Many go the traditional route: dog and cat. Then, we have children who prefer a pet who’s a smaller size or less vocal: fish, gecko, gerbil, hamster, guinea pig, and turtle. Of course, we must remember the daring children who ask for a pet snake, mouse, rat, hedgehog, or spider. There are more pets to choose from, but this is the first time I’ve heard of anyone who’d prefer a baboon as their companion. 

Max Hardison’s illustrations were cute as a button and made me smile. Their cartoon image outshined any real baboon I’ve seen at our zoo or on a nature show. The artist made the wild animal appear cuddly-worthy, whereas the real-life version is frightening. The baboon’s facial expression at the beauty parlor spoke a thousand words. They might not like their “hoighty-toighty hairdo,” but kids will like the drawing. Children might wish for a baboon to join their next tea party after reading the book. Whether the baboon was behind the wheel, playing the bassoon, partaking in a 5-course meal, or looking at the night sky from a hot air balloon basket, the two sisters made having a baboon for a pet a fun and great idea. 

This story captures the beauty of a child’s imagination. This book is perfect for 2–7-year-olds despite a few challenging words. 

School or home, this is a lively book that will get kids excited for story time! Get your copy today, and remember to ask your child their thoughts on the out-of-the-ordinary pet. 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

 
I am a husband of a beautiful wife and two lovely daughter. Because I have these little ones there is ample opportunity to tell them stories and flex my child like imagination. I just recently published my first children’s picture book inspired by my family.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

Happy Holidays

 

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November 16, 2023 · 7:00 am

How to Keep Monsters Out of Your Room by Catie Cat (Book Review)

Dru has monsters in his room! After several attempts, he finally figures out how to get rid of them! This rhyming picture book includes a project so YOU can get rid of YOUR monsters too! Afraid of the dark + problem solver.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

Every night, kids worldwide fear the possibility of a monster lurking under their bed or in the closet. They sleep with lights on, fearing what could creep out from the shadows if they are left in complete darkness. Dru, like so many other young children, has difficulty falling asleep due to fear and anxiety over bedroom “creatures.” 

Due to vivid imaginations, every monster’s appearance varies to some degree. Dru’s unwelcomed guest has large, pointy teeth and green bulging eyes. He looked like a cross between a wolf and a dragon. I can understand why the beast was causing such a fright. I applaud the artist’s skills. Each page looked like a painting.

Dru yelled at the beast to leave his room immediately, but his demands went unannounced. He then remembered the warning signs he’d seen with his mom and recalled their meanings. No left turns. No dogs allowed. No cell phones. Everyone followed these signs and more, promptly Dru to have an ingenious idea. He knew how to keep the monsters out of his room for good! 

Children will witness Dru’s plan in action. They’ll cheer at his success. Then, after the story’s conclusion, they can follow Dru’s instructions and make a “No Monsters Allowed” sign to hang up anywhere in their room. 

When bedtime calls, kids can’t help but fear darkened corners, what supposedly is waiting under their bed, or what else is in their closet besides toys and clothes. How to Keep Monsters Out of Your Room aims to teach kids how to scare “monsters” away so they can get a peaceful night’s sleep. I think everyone will agree that is a great end goal!

Studies show that fear of darkness begins around the age of two; therefore, I recommend sharing the picture book with children as young as two. I also recommend creating your monster “stop” sign. 

Let’s squash those fears before they keep anyone up all night! 

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score:  ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author 

Catherine Castoro (Catie Cat) is an author and illustrator. How to Keep Monsters Out of Your Room is her third children’s book. Published Adult non-fiction: THE FERRY TO DUBLIN, January 2018 edition of The Ocotillo Review. She has two grown children and lives with her husband in Austin, Texas.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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