Maple

FOR THE WEEKEND, share this title with your child. We are celebrating changes!

Maple is appropriate for children of all ages.

Summary:
Maple is a charming story from Lori Nichols about a spunky little girl and her very own tree. Maple's parents planted a tree when she was just a baby. Maple and her tree grow and experience the seasons together. Maple's tree isn't always the best playmate, but it doesn't mind when she is in the mood to be loud. One day, Maple becomes a big sister and she does her best to be the greatest big sister she can be. When she discovers that her baby sister also likes to be loud, she knows just what to do.

Practice this Comprehension Strategy-Retelling:
After you read Maple ask your child to tell you the story. As they turn the pages for you, have them tell you the names of the characters and the events that they recall happening on each page. If they need help, prompt them with a question about the information. If they tell you a complete different story, that is also fine! By engaging their memory and imagination they are furthering their involvement with the entire experience of reading. 

Do this with your child:
Maple spends much of her time outside, playing with and around her favorite tree. Is there a tree in your backyard or your favorite park? Have you ever sat underneath and watched the leaves dance like Maple does sometimes? Next time you're by a tree, lie below it and just watch and listen. Talk with your child about the sights and the sounds of the tree. You can also bring along a fun activity sheet provided by the author here.

If you're interested in sharing Maple with your child you can find it from Nancy Paulsen Books, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers Group here. You can like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter & Instagram for more inspiration.

Click here to learn more about Raising A Reader and the work we do to promote early literacy and family engagement. 

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Leaf Jumpers

FOR THE WEEKEND, share this fall themed title with your child! 

Leaf Jumpers is appropriate for children of all ages.

Summary:
Leaf Jumpers from author Carole Gerber and illustrator Leslie Evans gracefully tells the story of fall leaves. The reader will follow along with the poetic tone and delightful pictures as you join the child raking leaves in autumn. There's even a snippet at the end of the story about why leaves change color.

Practice this Comprehension Strategy-Retelling:
Leaf Jumpers is a wonderful book for retelling. Ask your child to take a turn to tell you the story after you have read it. Let them lead the way. If they ask for help, prompt them with a reminder, otherwise they're in charge this time! By taking an active role in the story, your child will further their connection with the text and deepen their engagement with the story.

Do this with your child:
There are a variety of leaves illustrated in Leaf Jumpers. Take a walk outside to look for some leaves that might have fallen in your neighborhood. Do any of the leaves that you found match the leaves from the book? Pick your favorite leaf from the story or from your walk and draw it!

If you're interested in sharing Leaf Jumpers with your child you can find it from Charlesbridge Publishing here. Please like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.