Kids Literati

In addition to publishing The Birth Ecology Project, I also have another web-based project for families that I would love to share with the Birth Ecology community. Kids Literati is a kidlit book blog in which I review quality books for children, parents, educators, and librarians. Come and take a look at my favorite books, as I review classics and new releases.

Reading, telling stories, or singing to the baby in your belly is an excellent way to foster your child's capacity for learning and language. Babies in the womb have developed functioning ears by the fifth month of gestation. In the womb, babies are already learning about language, and have a preference for their mother's voice. Research has even shown that babies in-utero can learn story passages and child rhymes. 

Young babies can enjoy storytelling and reading books together, as well as older children. Babies need pictures that are bright and simple, as it is harder for them to focus on intricate images. Babies can also enjoy just listening to stories and not viewing pictures. Of course, follow your babies cues, as well as your older children, reading should always be fun!

I read with my son every day, and have since he was a babe. For my very active boy,  a good book can always entice him to be still and focus, easing the transition from playtime to quiet time or bedtime. Today, kindergarten teachers expect entering students to have been read at least 1000 books prior to beginning school, so start early and have fun. 

Since parents spend enormous quantities of time reading with their children, I believe adults should enjoy the books as much as kids. So, check out Kids Literati for great suggestions of children's books for all ages.  I hope you enjoy!

- Kara Spencer, Kids Literati | www.kidsliterati.squarespace.com