My Favorite Children's Book

It is hard for me to pick just one favorite children's book because I have enjoyed reading so many different books to both the preschool children I have worked with and to my own children as a nightly routine before going to bed.  One of my favorites though has to be The Napping House by Audrey Wood.  I love this book partly because of the beautiful illustrations by Don Wood.  Being a visual learner, I have always enjoyed books that are visually appealing.  The silly story of a snoring granny is also just plan fun to read.  I believe that learning should be fun.  This funny story can be used as a means to introduce learning concepts like sequencing and also explore predictions about what will happen next as the story builds.   

Edward the Emu by Sheena Knowles is also another favorite of mine.  Although not as visually appealing, I love the concepts of self esteem that can be discussed as the children go on a  journey with Edward through the zoo.  The surprise ending also always makes me smile.  I feel the underlying lesson to be learned is that it is good to be exactly who you are.    Peer pressure is something every child will deal with at some point in their life.  I feel that the children should be comfortable being who they are and not made to feel like they have to be someone else for the sake of being popular.  Hopefully, this concept introduced in preschool will carry with them as the grow and help them to embrace themselves as a completely unique individual who is loved and valued for who they are rather than what they pretend to be.