Book Nook Enrichment

Our custom curriculum promotes literacy awareness and confidence in early learners, providing endless opportunities to inspire the next generation of learners!

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Connecting and Comprehending

One of our favorite things about reading is the act of discussion. It’s easy enough to just stop at the text — to take it for what it is and go no further. Plenty of stories are intended to be read this way, for entertainment and nothing more. But these days, more and more children’s books are being released that have a much deeper meaning. They teach lessons and require little ones to think more deeply — to ask and be asked questions.

We begin this process with our Kinder Hoots through story mapping. Story mapping opens up students to the very barebones of understanding story structure: separating the beginning, middle, and end of a story. This assists with comprehension and opens the door for more in-depth reading, but is just the beginning. Our Wise Owls tier, open to children from kindergarten through second grade, delves into reading comprehension a bit more and requires children to see not just the big picture, but the parts of the whole as well.

However, incorporating reading comprehension activities is easier said than done. It isn’t a quick snap of the fingers, and requires attention and care to ensure each student is taking in each piece of a story completely. But what are some ways to see that this is taking place?

Start with pre, during, and post reading. It’s a simple practice that we begin with our Lil Hoots and continue throughout each tier of learning. Introduce the story, discuss between pages, and ask questions when you have finished reading. Our Wise Owls are reading independently, so this exercise is even more important. We begin our reading with a writing prompt, asking our students to write (using phonetic spelling) what they think might happen in the book just based on the title and cover. While reading, we stop intermittently to see what they’re thinking and feeling about the story. And at the end, we follow up with questions about the book overall. These questions can be very basic — did you like the story? What was your favorite part? Who was your favorite character? Was there anything you didn’t understand? This invites students to think about the many pieces and to fit them together in their own way.

Summarize, summarize, summarize. As children begin reading independently, they often are unable to gather independent thoughts to discuss the thing as a whole. They have been exposed to tactics that ask for pieces, but are unable to find the main ideas present in a book. When children learn to summarize, they are more likely to remember the overall plot of a story, which helps with not only comprehension but the ability to be concise in discussion. When reading a story to or with your children, discuss what the story was about — the theme, the message, what the author wants you to take away from it. As you guide them through this process, they will begin to see these elements on their own when reading independently.

Incorporate organizational supplements. After we use our story maps with our Kinder Hoots, our Wise Owls graduate to graphic organizers. Graphic organizers allow for more specific components of a story — not just the beginning, middle, and end of the whole, but the beginning, middle, and end of each section. These also ask for detailed accounts of the characters (what did they look like? How did they all relate to each other?), the setting (how would you describe the atmosphere? What did the characters see there?), and more. Graphic organizers also allow children to learn to write well-organized summaries of the text, with layouts that are not stagnant but visually engaging through the use of venn diagrams, charts, or webs.

Book Nook Enrichment’s Wise Owls classes are offered to children currently enrolled in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. It is an excellent supplement to a child’s educational journey, and allows them to become a more confident reader and writer in a more intimate learning environment. Developing comprehension abilities is just one of the aspects we focus on at this level. Interested in learning more? Check out our website and inquire within!

Happy Reading!

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Confidence is Key

Greetings from the other side of summer! It’s been a while since we’ve checked in, but that’s not for lack of trying. It’s been a busy couple of months at Book Nook Enrichment. We had an amazing time with our students, engaging in storytelling and exploring our imaginations throughout our summer program. But all good things must come to an end, and new beginnings are always right around the corner… like the start of the school year, for example! In just a few short weeks, we’ll be opening our doors once more to students new and old, and we can’t wait.

The lead up to a new school year is always a challenge, albeit an exciting one. Preparation is key, and organization is a must — both in ensuring our classrooms are tidy, open spaces conducive to learning and that our lessons are ready for students of all levels. We welcome children from 18 months to 7 years old into our literacy studios, and having such different age groups requires an understanding of what each child needs, and how best to support and encourage their individual growth. As our students get older, we begin to introduce reading — which is truly a personal journey, and something that everyone experiences at their pace. Because of this, we bring independent reading into play early on with our Kinder Hoots tier. Kinder Hoots — ranging in age from 4 ½ to 6 years old — continue to work on handwriting and grip, but also on reading and more advanced comprehension skills. Inviting them to explore this aspect of their education before heading to kindergarten allows for their confidence to thrive early on — which makes children more eager to continue reading on their own.

But how do you help instill confidence? What practices can be laid in place to ensure future success and an overall joy when it comes to learning? As always, we have some tips.

Ease into it. Many parents realize that their child has started recognizing words and blending sounds independently and get very excited — and we understand! It’s a big step in a child’s education. But taking this step and turning it into a leap can often deter children from wanting to continue on their own. They realize it’s a skill to be learned rather than, say, a game to be played and it puts them off of it, which puts them several steps back. Encourage them to continue this discovery process on their own, but don’t turn reading time into an extension of the school day. Allowing them to come to these places on their own will only help and build their excitement and confidence with reading.

Let them in on certain tricks of the trade. Something as simple as helping them remember sight words or introducing digraphs can incite an eagerness in a child. These types of tips can feel like little secrets when it comes to reading… why does “sh” make that sound?, why can’t we sound out the word “the?”, and so on. They’re pieces of the process that are more straight forward than the act of reading itself. Give them those tidbits to hold onto so certain aspects of said process can run smoothly.

Encourage re-reading. Reading a book over and over again allows children to build fluency, and with fluency comes a reading experience that is less stalled. Going over the same passages more than once gives kids the chance to try again on words they struggled to decode the first time. And when children feel that they’ve gotten the hang of one book, they begin to realize that the same will happen with another. This practice is huge when it comes to strengthening the belief in themselves that they are capable. But rereading also allows children to more deeply understand the material and story structure itself. It is beneficial all around.

Book Nook Enrichment’s Kinder Hoots classes begin at 43 months and continue through 60 months. It is a great supplement to a child’s educational journey, and provides the stepping stones needed for success in kindergarten and beyond. Getting acquainted with reading is just the beginning for these students. Interested in learning more? Check out our website and inquire within!

Happy Reading!

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The Road to Reading

As children enter preschool and beyond, they are exposed to many new learning experiences and routines.  We incorporate structure into our classrooms to help make this transition easier for our littlest learners and to introduce more advanced concepts to get them ahead of the game.  One particular area of academics we implement even beginning with our lowest tier is, of course, reading.

While we know that it’s a long and winding road to the beginning stages of reading, we believe it’s never too early to take those first steps.  We start to focus more directly on this skill in our Pre Hoots tier.  Our Pre Hoots - ranging in age from 3 ½  to 4 ½ - continue to work on handwriting and grip, but also on early reading and comprehension.  There are certain exercises we incorporate into class that make the process not only inviting, but fun.  After all, if children learn to love reading first, they’ll be that much more eager to grow and succeed.

Implement Word Families.  Kids are exposed to word families from the earliest stages of their adolescence without even really realizing it.  The Cat in the Hat is still one of the most popular children’s books out there, and it is a story riddled with word families.  Rhyming activities are often the most effective way to introduce independent reading as hearing and finding rhymes can come before decoding and blending, but will ultimately assist with both.  An easy way to make the concept fun?  Create a word family memory game using notecards and help children find and remember the matches. They can put them together to form whole families and to easily see the ways in which the words are similar and what letters create the rhyme.

Uncover Sight Words.  Sight words can be the most difficult part about learning how to read as they don’t follow the rules of phonics.  What do you do when you can’t sound out a word?  Memorization is key when it comes to sight words but is an idea that can be lost on young children.  We use coloring pages to help with the process - children color in the sight words to create an image.  This allows them to view and say the word over and over again, which is an aide in memorization.  Another way to make remembering fun is sight word bingo.  Much like a word family memory game, you can create a bingo board with sight words and have children place a button - or something sweet for extra incentive! - as they find the words.  We use the Dolch List when teaching sight words - you can check out the pre-k list here.

Introduce Decoding and Blending.  This is probably the most important aspect of teaching a child how to read, but can also be the longest part of the process.  It’s a marathon - not a sprint!  We always remind our students that the most important part about learning how to read is doing it at your own pace to ensure you’re mastering each skill before uncovering a new one.  Decoding is also referred to as “sounding it out” - learning each letter sound and listening to their place in a word step by step.  After this comes blending - putting those sounds together to create the overall word.  Children begin to develop phonemic awareness from the time they learn the alphabet, but the next step can be a challenge. Use fun pointers - magic wands, fuzzy pencils, etc. - to make the process engaging!

Book Nook Enrichment’s Pre Hoots classes begin at 42 months and continue through 50 months. It is a great supplement to a child’s educational journey, and provides the stepping stones needed for success in kindergarten and beyond. An introduction to reading is just one of our areas of focus at this level. Interested in learning more? Check out our website and inquire within!

Happy Reading!

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A Labor of Language

Don’t it always seem to go that one day, your little one is struggling to string words together and the next, they are bursting with language? It’s a transition that is both subtle and jarring, all at once. Of course, this doesn’t reallyhappen overnight. Infusing a child’s day with books, conversation, and additional literacy activities sets the foundation for a future of linguistic success!

The next tier of Book Nook Enrichment — our Early Hoots, ranging in age from 2 ½ to 3 ½ — focuses on handwriting and fine motor development but also, maybe most importantly, expanding vocabulary. A strong vocabulary is vital as a child continues throughout their education. It aides in their communication skills, reading abilities, and their general understanding of the world around them. Having the right words and corresponding definitions can make for a more empathetic and compassionate learner — and that is important for all aspects of life.

But what are some ways to enrich a child’s lexis organically and without completely inundating them with too much information? It’s simpler than you think!

Utilize vocabulary exercises in your child’s day to day. Each week at Book Nook, we have a new theme — everything ranging from sea animals to specific holidays. Themes are a great way to implement new words into a child’s day. After all, you have plenty of aquatic life to discuss or different corners of the world to discover. We use a worksheet, manipulatives, and more to talk about our themes. These activities spark questions which lead to longer conversations, allowing us to really delve into things and ensure each child develops a deeper understanding of the topic at hand.

Incorporate pre, during, and post reading discussions to storytime. Inviting children to think more critically about books provides the opportunity for deeper consideration of the themes, structure, and more. We know that good readers make good writers, but they also make the best talkers. Language can be developed through taking in the language of others — such as our favorite authors! — and reiterating it in our own way. Asking your child questions about the story — what they think might happen, what is currently happen, and what they took from it as a whole — keeps them on their toes and actively engaged and curious throughout.

And, the most fun of all, play games! There are so many incredible word-based games that will get your little ones chatting and thinking while also having a great time. Some of our favorites are Boggle, Apples to Apples, and as they get a bit older, Scrabble! These activities also help with phonics and pre-reading. While they’re a bit younger, though, we recommend I Spy. This game requires children to take in their surroundings and notice things they might not have before. In doing so, they may come across an object or situation they don’t recognize and then they’re able to learn about it on the spot! As an added bonus, it’s also a great way to pass the time on long car rides to the beach this summer.

Book Nook Enrichment’s Early Hoots classes begin at 30 months and continue through 42 months. It is the perfect introduction to an educational setting for children just beginning their academic journey, or a great supplement for kids enrolled in preschool. Vocabulary extension is just one of our areas of focus at this level. Interested in learning more? Check out our website and inquire within!

Happy Summer!   

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The Struggle with Separation

The first step to any child’s education is often the hardest one: separation. It’s a process that is difficult for parent and child alike, and can often be an ongoing fight throughout the first year (and beyond) of education. For parents, it is the overall emotional response to seeing their little one begin new experiences without them. For children, it is the anxiety of being away from their people and main source of comfort for extended periods. And even more than that, it is the inability to fully grasp that it isn’t forever — that they’ll be reunited with mommy and or daddy soon.

Book Nook Enrichment’s classes begin at 18 months, so we are often up close and personal with the separation struggle. Every child is different! Some children are ready to separate right away and head into class without a second glance, while others need more time to acclimate. There’s no right way to separate — it’s all about reading the child and finding ways to make them as comfortable as possible. Luckily, we’ve found ways to ease children (and parents!) into the idea of separating and have more than a few tips and tricks up our sleeves.

Start the transition with a soft separation. Soft separation prompts parents to accompany their child into class, introduce them to the environment and new faces, and then remove themselves when their child is more comfortable. This slower approach to separation gives children a chance to familiarize themselves with their surroundings while also giving parents a chance to get a better sense of the teachers and class itself.

Introduce the idea of “your space” vs. “your caregiver’s space.” We have a living room when you first enter Book Nook where we invite parents to stay and wait for their children — particularly when a little one is first separating. It’s an extremely beneficial aspect of the separation process, as we are able to move from the living room to our classroom and help our students understand that while they’re in class, their caregiver is still nearby. Mommy might not be right next to you, we say, but look! She’s just a short walk away! It gives our toddlers a sense of security which encourages them to settle in and engage in the session.

Implement means of distraction into the act of separation. The hallway from our living room to our classroom is filled to the brim with books, trinkets, pictures, and more. These extras not only add a sense of coziness to our little nook, but also provide opportunities for our educators to distract children who may be having trouble separating. Sometimes it is as simple as winding up the toys in our fishbowl, pulling out a pop-up book, or listening for the bird singing in our story tree to help ease a child’s anxiety. It instills a kind of wonder in learning and allows them to feel happier and more excited in the space.

Uncover the things that bring each child joy and incorporate them freely. Some of our little ones like stickers best. Others are big fans of watercolor painting. Whatever it may be, in the first few weeks of separation, pay close attention to the aspects of class that soothe or engage most and spend extra time with them. This simple act will not only motivate the students, but also allow them to begin to associate that happiness and comfort with the class itself. Nurturing that happiness and cultivating that joy will only instill in them an early and lifelong love of education.

Book Nook Enrichment’s Lil Hoots classes begin at 18 months and continue through 24 months. It is the perfect first step for separation, and also to introduce the early literacy skills necessary for the utmost success in preschool and beyond. Interested in learning more? Check out our website and inquire within!

Happy Reading!

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The Great Outdoors

Well, the sun finally decided to show up — but we seem to have bypassed spring and jumped right into summer! Not that we’re complaining. There’s an excited hum surrounding the city, and after a particularly long winter (do they seem to get longer every year?), a little extra heat is more than welcome.

The best part about the weather heating up is the endless stream of activities right at our fingertips. New York is so quiet in the colder months, with kids and adults alike choosing to huddle up indoors rather than head out to explore the city. But as soon as Mr. Golden Sun makes his way back to us, the streets come alive again. The busier it gets, the more tempting it is to spend days tucked away in the park, enjoying the greenery and scenery. And, of course, enjoying a good book!

Reading outdoors is not only a chance to get some fresh air — it is a chance for children to explore in new ways and to stretch their imaginations. There are plenty of benefits, but here are a few we think make the biggest difference.

It ignites the senses.

Kids spend a lot of time inside — during school, at home, etc. Heading outside to read and learn gives them the opportunity to engage with nature and explore their senses. What do you see? Smell? Hear? Feel? These types of questions and the responses they engender encourage children to pay closer attention to the world around them. These questions can also be linked back into whatever book your child is reading and draw his or her attention to what the characters may be feeling and experiencing where they are.

It’s an instant mood booster.

This one is a no-brainer, but important nonetheless: a hefty dose of Vitamin D is good for the mind, body, and soul. Simply spending an hour or two outside is proven to improve moods, relieve stress, and ease anxiety. Remember when your teachers would conduct class outside, and how much better — and, perhaps, easier — it felt? Having a clear head and a happy heart also leads to children being more receptive to information, which allows them to retain and relay facts more comfortably.

It facilitates imaginative thinking.

Say you bring a book like Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt to the park. It’s filled with nothing but outdoor imagery — flowers, insects, trees… much like the flowers, insects, and trees surrounding your little one. Have them embark on a little scavenger hunt to see all the things they can match — and what brand new objects they discover along the way. These types of activities urge children to take notice of the world around them and see more clearly the way things work together to make up the places we call home!

Do you have a favorite book to bring with you on your warm weather adventures? We’re always looking for new favorites and, of course, new ways to enjoy this magical city we call home.

Enjoy the sunshine!

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Write, Write, Write

There’s one thing we know to be true, and it’s that the best writers are avid readers.

It’s a fact that’s been proven time and time again, and one of the main reasons we ensure that our curriculum includes a healthy balance of both. We do our best to weave the two together, to make the pairing seamless, so our students are building both skills at the same time. One thing we notice, though, is how quickly kids take to reading and how resistant they can be towards writing. We understand — writing requires flexing a different, yet still auxiliary, muscle. It also engages a child’s creative thinking, which can sometimes take a bit of nudging to incite. So how do you do it? How do you make writing fun?

Find a space that is both comfortable and inspiring. Book Nook’s reading and writing corners are inviting while still being filled to the brim with books, knick-knacks, and more. These additions to the space can stimulate a child’s imagination and get them more excited about the task at hand.

Allow each student to ease their way into the process. Especially when it comes to proper spelling, punctuation, and overall grammar usage. We incorporate phonetic spelling when first introducing more advanced writing prompts to allow children to focus on the prompt itself, rather than if they’re writing correctly. This technique also helps with reading, as children begin to have a deeper sense of phonemic awareness through sounding out and blending sounds independently.

Give them the freedom to explore. The most effective way to open a child up to writing is to allow them to pick the topic. We like to invite our students to answer writing prompts with fictional answers, so they can really get those gears turning. If a child is given the opportunity to create a totally unique universe that excites them — one with miniature dragons, maybe, or iridescent unicorns — they are typically more willing to actively engage.

Ask open-ended questions. If a child is stuck on a prompt, their instinct is to say, “I don’t know” or “I can’t do it.” When this issue arises, help them dig a bit deeper by asking questions they may not have thought to ask themselves. Do they like or dislike the topic they’re discussing? What does their character want? What is their favorite part about the story itself? This not only helps them open their minds a bit, but also to think more critically and explore more fully.

And, as always: read, read, read. And when reading, explore the text at hand. Point out the bigger words, draw attention to descriptive passages, consider the choices certain characters are making and discuss why they were important. This type of close reading gives kids the chance to really observe an author’s style and begin to understand writing more deeply. When children form a relationship with words and stories, the art of storytelling itself becomes something exciting rather than daunting.

Developing a respect for reading and writing at a young age creates deep thinkers and well-rounded learners — qualities that will allow students to reach great heights throughout their education. So open a book, present a blank page, and invite your little ones on a journey — there are always new worlds to discover.

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Collaborative Classrooms

We believe the best classrooms are the collaborative ones.

Of course, there are times that call for individual and silent work - a space for children to work through ideas and problems on their own.  But inviting little ones to think, discuss, and expand upon thoughts with the help of others allows for a depth of discovery they may not have reached alone.  

We work to incorporate collaborative exercises with our littlest learners. It's often easier for a child in preschool to address a group of peers than it is for a third grader, as the older children get the more self consciousness seems to creep in.  But how do you encourage children to open themselves up to collaboration?  We have a few methods that work - and the earlier you begin implementing them, the better.     

Incorporate cooperative learning exercises. Encouraging students to understand how to work together as a team is the first and most important step of creative a collaborative space for children to learn and grow.  Cooperative learning focuses on groups working together to achieve a common goal, rather than placing an emphasis on competition between peers.  This type of learning can be enforced through the incorporation of games and listening exercises.  We use Mat Man in class, which is an activity created for children to develop body awareness and to develop fine motor.  Place all of Mat Man’s parts (eyes, nose, ears, etc.) on the floor and have children work together to place them correctly and efficiently. This allows for not only cooperative learning, but also more discussion as they’ll need to talk amongst themselves to work out the puzzle.

Ask open-ended questions to the group. While children will often answer these individually as opposed to together, the different answers given provide the opportunity for a more in-depth discussion.  Often, the children will begin asking each other questions as well which allows the teacher to observe and continue the conversation along.  By allowing students to converse and get to know each other’s likes, dislikes, thoughts, etc., you are providing the foundation for continued collaboration.  This also develops a child’s sense of social and self awareness, which helps them to build stronger relationships with others - and solid connections allow for more fruitful partnerships!

Work your way up. It’s good to start small, particularly with younger children.  Begin with just pairs, and then open it to a bit of a larger group. Our classes have no more than six children, so often, we all work together on things like puzzles or reading exercises - depending on the age group. For larger classes, working your way up is key in allowing children to adjust and transition in a way that is comfortable for them.  It also gives them a chance to understand the process of working together as a group, and allows for better results in their work.

Keep the routine consistent. We always complete our work in the same order each week so our students remember what comes next and are eager and excited to complete each activity. This is key in group exercises as well, as children can settle into the routine and understand what is expected of them. Routines affect a child’s cognitive and overall social development.  They also expand a sense of stability and order, which are beneficial skills to have as little ones continue throughout their education.

We hope these little tips and tricks open your little ones’ minds to a whole new world of thought and discovery.  A little encouragement and collaboration can produce some amazing things.  After all, teamwork makes the dream work!  :)

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Tradition vs. Technology

Greetings from Spring Break!

The Book Nook Enrichment team is recharging for the next couple of weeks to get ready for the home stretch to the end of the school year!  It’s hard to believe April is just days away - didn’t we just welcome new students to our literacy studios yesterday?  But even though we’ve got a case of Spring Fever, that won’t stop us from making these last few months count.

With kids on break and more free time in their day to day for a little while, it’s gotten us thinking about different types of stimulation - recreational, educational, and otherwise! - and the ways they enrich and enhance a child’s life.  These days, technology has taken over, and sometimes kids are tempted to spend more time on their iPads then with their noses stuck in a book.  Both are vital to this day and age - but balance is key.

At Book Nook, our classes stick to a more traditional approach to learning.  We don’t incorporate technology into our lessons, and focus on using pencils (or markers, or crayons) and paper to understand literacy.  However, we also see the importance of technology for today’s little learners.  The use of iPads, computers, and more have already found their way into classrooms and these screens have become a type of language and literacy all their own.  

Technology, in both the classroom and at home, is effective in creating well-rounded students!  Technology can sometimes engage children in a way that more traditional learning does not, thereby creating more active learners.  We use music, puzzles, and games in our traditional approach to keep learning fresh and lively.  Both are effectual methods!  But how can you incorporate these differing styles to ensure your children are getting the best of both worlds?

For us, it’s all about scheduling.  We believe that there’s space in the day for apps, books, videos, and paper.  Create a weekly timetable that opens up, and yet limits, your child’s access to screens.  Introduce educational apps - there are many that focus on handwriting and reading using a traditional approach, just with a stylus as opposed to a pencil - and games that are fun and stimulating.  It sounds simple, but that’s because it is.  Children and adults alike thrive and adapt more easily when given a steady routine to follow.  

This same method can be used when incorporating more books into a child’s life.  For some little ones, the early stages of reading can be difficult - particularly when first transitioning from always being read to.  Encouraging your children to pick up books on their own from an early age, even just to flip through the pages and look at the pictures, instills in them the desire to continue this routine as they grow.  When they start to read, they feel more confident because - to them - they’ve already been “reading” for a while!  It becomes less difficult to make kids want to read when they’ve loved reading from the start - which, again, makes them more likely to pick up a book than an iPad.

Include both tradition and technology, and allow your little ones to discover the type of learning environment that best fits their personalities and learning styles.  They’ll be all the better for it - in the classroom, and throughout their lives.

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Bringing Books to Life in New York City

Happy Spring!  

The wind is howling… the snow is falling… yep, it’s a typical New York City start to one of our most fickle seasons.  It’s always hard to predict what spring will bring, and it’s coming in with another storm.  We hope you’re all cozied up today with a good book… preferably one that takes place on a beach.

Despite its less than ideal entrance, the start of spring has us daydreaming about warmer weather and long days spent outside.  There’s always something to do in the city - and always new places to discover, especially with a little one in tow.  Some of our favorite children’s books are set in New York and can almost provide whole itineraries for fun-filled days in the cold or warm, wet or dry.  We’ve compiled a list of books we love that show our city and its many splendored landmarks love too!  What are your favorites?

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

{The perfect option for a day like today and one that leaves a lot up to your imagination.  We personally love the snow - its quiet magic, the way it can completely change the landscape of a place that you know so well.  The Snowy Day follows a boy as he explores this new winter wonderland of a city, and it captures the excitement and joy of a child’s first snowfall beautifully.  Based on Keats’s own experiences growing up in Brooklyn, this story will undoubtedly inspire you to bundle up your little one and head out for sledding, snowball rolling, snow angel making fun.}

Eloise at the Plaza by Kay Thompson

{Another beloved classic, Eloise at the Plaza tells the story of a precocious little girl who is living out a very relatable fantasy.  The Plaza is her playground - what could be better?  This day would require a bit more planning, but the Plaza is just as fond of Eloise as we are, often offering events in her honor.  There are tea parties, storytimes, and even the option to stay in the Eloise Suite (if you’re looking to book an extra special staycation).  Follow along with the Plaza’s calendar of events to see when you can spend a day living like Eloise.}

The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge by Hildegarde H. Swift

{This classic story has been capturing hearts and minds since 1942 and is, more than anything else, a love letter to New York City.  Swift started writing it when the George Washington Bridge was being built, towering over the little lighthouse below.  It speaks to how our city is constantly changing, but that there is beauty to be found in all that makes New York unique.  The Little Red Lighthouse is still a premiere tourist attraction, settled on the bank of the Hudson River, and is a perfect destination for a day of walking, park picnics, and more.  We’ll be thinking of this one until summer comes, for sure.}

You Can’t Take a Balloon into the Metropolitan Museum by Jacqueline Preiss Weitzman

{Who doesn’t love a day at the Met?  Of course, in this story, mayhem ensues when a little girl loses her balloon and a security guard is tasked with the job of chasing it all over the city to return it safely home.  The soft and beautiful illustrations in this story flip between the famous artwork hanging in the Metropolitan Museum, and the more hectic pieces of subway lines, circus performers, and more.  Whenever we read it in class, it makes us itch to return to the Met and spend hours walking those halls.  This is an activity we love in the warmer weather, too - it’s always nice to get out of the heat for a while.  But, lucky for us, the Met is open all year and is a great escape from the ferocity of that winter (or spring!) tundra too.}

The Curious Garden by Peter Brown

{One of our absolute favorite outdoor activities is, without a doubt, visiting the Highline.  The Curious Garden was inspired by the Highline, and how the city - with all of its concrete and asphalt - can still be home to some truly amazing bits of nature.  Brown wanted to question what it would be like if we could have true balance - the bustle of the city paired with the calm of the country.  This is the perfect springtime read, and may even encourage your little one to plant a garden of their own - it may have to be small, and probably indoors, but it’s always something special to nurture life on your own.  And then, of course, take a day trip to the Highline and experience the wonder of nature on a larger scale.}

Stay (and think!) warm, everyone!

[booknookenrichment]

Happy Read Across America Day!

And, of course - Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

We’ve said it many, many times, but today is one of our absolute favorite days of the year.  Not only does it celebrate the joy and wonder of reading, but also one of the all time greats - Dr. Seuss!  He so often brings magic to our classroom that we think he deserves months and months to show our gratitude - but we’re glad for the chance to celebrate today each year.

Read Across America was established in 1998 by the National Education Association to encourage children to get excited about reading.  It’s presented as a bit of a game, a kind of competition with themselves to see how committed they can stay to the act of reading over the next 365 days.  Since then, it has become incredibly successful, breeding new readers and welcoming back old readers with only one aim in mind: to open young minds and a good book.

Celebrating Read Across America Day on Dr. Seuss’s birthday is more than a little fitting.  Dr. Seuss obviously understood the types of journeys books could create and emphasized the importance of opening up new worlds to readers young and old.  And that’s what Read Across America is all about:  dreaming big, thinking deep, and approaching art with open arms and hearts.

We thought today would be the perfect day to talk about some of our favorite, lesser known Seuss books.  Almost all of his stories are classics, but his bibliography is extensive, to say the least - and some of these stories get pushed to the side when The Cat in the Hat is around!  So, without further ado -

More Books He Wrote That Have Our Vote (Dr. Seuss has nothing on us!)

McElligot’s Pool {Like most of Dr. Seuss’s stories, this book takes readers on a journey through imagination - but there’s a different tone.  Here, we see adults telling a child he’s silly to believe in something they do not, and the boy forging ahead anyway.  He uses that handy imagination and, of course, hijinx ensue.}

If I Ran the Circus {This is one of our favorites to read!  Dr. Seuss is the master of rhyme, but this story takes that gift to a whole new level.  The words come a mile a minute, and our little ones can’t stop giggling at the goofy, otherworldly creatures we meet.}

Oh, the Thinks You Can Think! {”Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!”  This story gives little ones a bit of advice from Seuss himself - dream up the impossible, think outside the box, and create new worlds in your mind.  There’s no limit to our imaginations... if only we try.}

And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street {This one holds a special place in our hearts because it is Dr. Seuss’s very first book for children!  It’s been in print for over 75 years, and continues to entice and engage little ones with that unmistakable Seussian flare.}

I Had Trouble in Getting to Solla Sollew {Dr. Seuss often embeds his stories with deeper meaning, which is part of the reason they are beloved by readers of all ages.  They can resonate with anyone, and this book is no different.  It illustrates the importance of facing troubles, big and small, head on - and how running away from difficulties only makes them more difficult.  It’s a message we all can take to heart.}

To learn more about the Read Across America initiative, head to the National Education Association website.  

Happy Reading!

[booknookenrichment]

A Break From School Isn’t a Break From Reading

The city is simultaneously less crowded and more active this week as families head out for vacation or make use of their staycation during the mid-winter recess. This week, children have an ample amount of time for a whole variety of activities — but the best thing to keep up with? Reading! We know it’s tempting to use time off to play or implement screen time or just put the books down for a bit, but more free time means more time for books to be viewed as something fun and relaxing. The enjoyment of reading can sometimes be lost for children in a school setting, and using that time at home to remind them of the magic and wonder of using our imaginations is crucial to instill a lifelong love of reading.

We came up with a few ideas to bolster your little one’s excitement and add another layer of fun this break.

1) Read from new genres! Kids can always be expanding their horizons when it comes to reading, but often they stick with genres they know and love, like action or mystery. Even more often, a child will read one book from a new genre and dislike it, and then swear off that particular area of literature forever. Making a trip to the library or bookstore and encouraging kids to choose something out of their comfort zone can open the door to entirely new worlds and ideas — and that’s never a bad thing!

2) Make a game out of it with a reading bingo sheet! There are many examples of these that can be found online, but there’s plenty of room for you to design your own as well. Incorporating squares with goals like “read outside” or “check out a story on audiobook” can keep things fresh and exciting, and give kids something to work towards and strive to accomplish.

3) Follow a theme! At Book Nook Enrichment, we read and create each week based on individual themes — everything from the holidays to reptiles. Asking your child to choose a theme and then pick a handful of books that correlate with that theme gives the project a sense of purpose while also making it cohesive. This can open your child up to a new genre, but also a new subset of information entirely. Have them pick books on certain type of animal, or maybe another city, and see what knowledge they are able to acquire.

4) Make a schedule and stick to it! Sometimes routine is the most important part of creating good habits. Pick a time each day to set aside as reading time. Set up a cozy corner of your house, or head to a nearby bookstore or library, and settle in for an hour or so. If you’re busy during that time one day? No problem — find another time that works. So long as your child is reading each day and making the time, just not waiting for it to present itself, it’s a win in our book.

5) Make use of travel or staycation time! Reading can be done anywhere, but sometimes it’s more fun somewhere new and exciting. Heading to the beach? Take a book with you! Traveling via train, plane, or automobile? Do some backseat reading! If your little one is staying in the city this week, there are still plenty of new spots to discover. Head to Central Park, find a new library, read with the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum — anything! There’s always new places to explore in New York, and what better way to make it memorable than with a good book?

Happy reading!

[booknookenrichment]

Creating a More Empathetic World With Words

“If you can learn a simple trick, Scout, you’ll get along a lot better with all kinds of folks.  You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” -Atticus Finch, To Kill a Mockingbird

Even the most optimistic people can agree that the world today is in need of help. And while there are a million diverse things we can (and should!) focus on when it comes to teaching our children how to be successful and live a good life, there is one thing in particular that should be at the top of every parent’s list: the importance of empathy.

Defined as “the ability to understand and share the feelings of another,” empathy is the fuel behind progress, compassion, tolerance, and innovation. Without empathy, society can’t move forward.

But how exactly do you teach empathy to children?

Lead by example? Yes. Answer questions with patience and ease? Of course. But even more than that, children can discover the meaning and truth of empathy through reading.

According to research done at the University of Toronto, people who read more, especially fiction, score much higher on tests that gauge interpersonal skills. When asked about the results, Keith Oatley, the cognitive psychologist behind the study, says, “People who read more fiction were better at empathy and understanding others.”

But why? What is it about books, and the messages within, that create a direct path to a more empathetic world?

“When we read about other people,” Oatley explains, “we can imagine ourselves into their position… That enables us to better understand people, better cooperate with them.”

The importance of focusing on reading stories with your child, then, becomes even more paramount. In a world where it still very much feels like there is work to be done, especially in areas of tolerance and acceptance, something as simple as fueling your child’s love of reading could make a real difference.

And while we would never discourage any child from reading a book, research shows that in order to get the best results for teaching empathy the books need to be character-focused, rather than action-based. More “literary” books require readers to “get inside the head” of characters, placing themselves into the character’s world in order to understand what they feel and believe in.

We have to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes. We have to look at the world the way they see it, so we can understand experiences outside of our own. Learning how to do this, and why it’s important, is the foundation of developing empathy.

Head to the bookstore. Go to the library. Discover new genres, new characters, new stories. Opening a book is just the beginning of the change your little ones can create and nurture.

[booknookenrichment]

Pure Imagination

Happy summer!

Okay, okay.  We know it’s not summer - but the wishful thinking has gotten the better of us.  The temps have been up and down (mostly down) lately in the city, and it seems as though summer in the city is the only thing on our mind these days.  Especially now that we’re getting into gear and getting organized for camp!

That’s right - this year’s summer camp is Book Nook’s World of Imagination, and even though summer is still months away, our excitement about this program is giving us the warm and fuzzies.

This summer, our camp is all about using our imaginations to learn and discover.  The importance of imaginative thinking in a child’s development is vital to their growth as learners, dreamers, and doers.  Whether we use our imagination to visit an underwater oasis or adventure across the Milky Way, these journeys through thought and play open experiences for children that had previously existed only in their dreams.  

But why wait until summer?  We’ve got some great ideas now that will help open up your child’s imagination and get them excited about learning in a brand new way.

{Wordless Books}

Picture books in general allow for children to engage and focus, but for more in-depth imaginative thinking, we recommend wordless picture books.  These stories made entirely of illustrations, allowing for kids to come up with their own stories.  While the pictures do nudge them in the right direction, it’s always hilarious and fascinating to hear the other details they add to craft a tale that’s entirely their own.  We’ve been singing the praises of the Journey Trilogy by Aaron Becker for years, but while you’re at it, be sure to check out Tuesday and Flotsam by David Wiesner, the many Flora books by Molly Idle, and more.

{Eeboo Story Cards}

Another way to encourage children to come up with their own stories is through a set of story cards.  Eeboo has a whole range of them, each one offering a different genre or otherworldly adventure for a little one to discover.  These cards not only enhance a child’s love of pretend, but also introduces the idea of story structure and how to understand plot, character, and setting.  They are fun and educational - what could be better? Check out their range of products here.

{Fold-a-creature}

This is an activity that we first discovered on our own, and in a different capacity - and knew it could be incorporated into a classroom setting to invoke a child’s sense of creativity and imagination.  This activity requires just a piece of paper and a marker - and, of course, thinking outside the box.  A teacher or caregiver simply folds the paper into three - and asks multiple children to add different parts of a body (upper, middle, bottom).  The trick is that the kids aren’t allowed to look at another child’s contribution - they just draw whatever they like!  The end result is often a mish-mash of ideas - people, fantastical creatures, and more.  This activity calls upon our ability to visualize and fabricate - and the final product is always hilarious.

{Charades}

A timeless classic - and still a great way to get kids moving, thinking, and having fun.  By removing language and forcing the players to rely solely on their bodies, movements, and imaginations, focus is key and allows kids and adults alike to truly engage.  The more imaginative the acting, the more involved the process, which introduces more layers to the game.  This type of resourceful thinking keeps kids guessing and keeps them geared up and ready for more.

{Unconventional Instruments}

The incorporation of music in a classroom is vital for retaining information, but for also keeping things fun and interesting.  It is an amazing tool for focus, but can also be an amazing tool for innovation.  Try bringing out unconventional instruments - pots, pans, salt and peppers shakers filled with beads, etc.  Kids can begin to understand music and rhythm on their own, and in a way that is more creatively fulfilling.  It can also open doors to a more focused practice of music - but by allowing children to discover the process on their own, it can instill a more organic love of the craft and a more unique and inventive way of understanding music and the creation of it as a whole.

Creativity is key, and we’re always looking for new ideas.  We hope you enjoyed these tidbits, and would love to hear the types of innovative play you incorporate at home!

“Imagination is everything.  It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” -Albert Einstein

[booknookenrichment]

Love, Love, Love

               The most wonderful thing about picture books has always been the lessons they teach. It is the way they open little hearts and minds to new feelings and thoughts, the way they reveal truths with a quiet ease.  And lately, we have been in a real golden age of storytelling for our littlest readers. Now is a time when more authors and illustrators are realizing the power in their work, the ways they can help children to develop a deeper understanding and greater compassion through art.  A beautiful example of this is the new picture book Love by Matt de la Peña and Loren Long.

               We’ve had Matt de la Peña on our radar since the stunning Last Stop on Market Street.   Both stories depict the many ways we can view the world around us, and how to do so with a kind and gentle heart.   Love takes this message one step further, inviting readers to take a closer look at the very idea of love and how something we often take for granted can be found everywhere, all around, throughout each moment in the landscape of a life.

               Love is sincere in its message from the first page.  It is a heartfelt journey through small towns and big cities, lonely dreams and joyous celebrations.  It discusses the idea that love is not just a feeling, but the people and places that become home.  Loren Long’s illustrations craft each scene with such detail and care that it is easy to apprehend meaning in the slope of each stroke.  The art at times even deepens the material, constructing a world that offers a detailed look at the many facets and properties of love.

               And when tackling the tougher aspects of this emotion, Love doesn’t flinch.  It is a book that illustrates all sides of the thing, even the parts that are darker and more difficult to name.  But in many ways, this is the most vital aspect of the story.  In depicting loss and sadness, Love creates the opportunity for children of all backgrounds to see themselves and their own histories on the page.  It says, with earnest candor, ‘I see you.  You are not alone.’  The importance of this, of allowing children to feel seen, of allowing children to feel, is limitless.  Love does so with an authenticity and grace that is remarkable, gripping and, above all else, powerful.

               In a recent interview with Time Magazine, Matt de la Peña says, “That’s why I write books. Because the little story I’m working on alone in a room, day after day, might one day give some kid out there an opportunity to ‘feel.’”  And Love does, again and again, but not just for children.  It will call to readers young and old.  It is that rare gem of a book that has the ability not just to entertain and engage its audience, but to remind them of the capacity of their hearts.

[booknookenrichment]

Spread the Love of Books

When you think of the holiday season, a lot of warm and cozy things come to mind - crackling fireplaces, beautifully lit evergreen trees, and everything knit (ugly sweaters included). Of course, this season also brings out a lot of much less cozy things - packed schedules, crowded stores, long lines, and expensive gifts. If you’re not careful, these are the things that can quickly take over your holidays, leaving you and your family feeling stressed and exhausted.

Before you let another holiday season slip away, consider slowing down and creating a new tradition, one that doesn’t require credit cards or heading out after dinner to brave busy crowds and never-ending lines.

This season, share a book.

Yes, it may sound simple, but through the magic of books you can open doors to incredible worlds and places that won’t soon be forgotten. While trendy toys will get tossed to the wayside in a matter of months (sometimes even days), the memory of you taking the time to read a story to a child in your family or community is something that they will carry with them from season to season.

In a world where adults and children alike are constantly glued to a screen and dividing their attention between several things at once, the act of reading a book brings serenity and simplicity to everyday life. When you sit down with your little one and open a book, it is a reminder to them that you will always have time to spend and care to show.

Below are a few ways to set up a special book night with your family to get you started. But remember: regardless of how you do it or what it looks like, reading a book to your child is one of the best ways to infuse magic into this special holiday season.

1. Cozy Up. Make a fire and get everyone in their pajamas. Before bed or first thing in the morning, gather your family under a blanket and share one of your favorite books from your childhood. Bonus points for individual character voices!

2. Make a Book Fort. Allow your story time to be extra fun by first creating a special fort or tent for books to be read in. Stack pillows and drape sheets to build your family’s very own book nook.

3. Get Creative with Lighting. Turn off the main lights in your home and bring out something special: flashlights, electric candles, lanterns, etc. Allow your children to be in charge of illuminating the pages and illustrations as you read.

Want to make a day of it? Head out on an excursion to the local library or bookstore to search for a new family favorite. You can even step it up a notch and invite friends and neighbors to take part in the fun by hosting a book reading complete with snacks, drinks, and bookish goodies.

Ready to rediscover the true meaning of the holidays? Take a breath, settle down, and share a book with the ones you love.

[booknookenrichment]

This and That

Winter has officially arrived in New York City.

Though the actual solstice is still about a week off, it is brisk out there - we've even had some snow this week!  There’s really nothing like the winter weather to get you full steam ahead into the holiday season!

And it is that time, after all.  The days are getting shorter, which means even less time to pick up the perfect gift for your little ones!  Luckily, New York City is teeming with present ideas, and the internet is always just a click away.  

At Book Nook, of course, we are big believers that books make the best presents.  These days, there are endless picture books to choose from - so where do you start?  We’ve made a little list for you based on timeless classics and our personal favorites.

If you like... Gaston by Kelly DiPucchio You’ll love... Antoinette by Kelly DiPucchio

{Did you know there’s a sequel to Gaston?!  It’s one of our most beloved modern classics at Book Nook and we were thrilled when the new book came out!  It follows Antoinette, one of the poodle pups readers meet in Gaston, on her own adventure!  Don’t have either book yet?  Check out the box set at Barnes & Noble!}

If you like... I Wish You More by Amy Krouse Rosenthal You’ll love... Here We Are by Oliver Jeffers

{By now, you’ve most certainly heard of Oliver Jeffers - he’s left an indelible mark on the world of children’s literature over the past few years with breakout hits like The Day the Crayons Quit.  His most recent book was written to help his son figure out the world around him, and in doing so, help other kids understand our planet as well.  It’s beautifully written and illustrated - and was an instant bestseller.}

If you like... Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak You’ll love... The Night Gardener by Terry and Eric Fan

{The Night Gardener was one of our favorite books last year.  It pairs the whimsical with the ordinary - much like the beloved classic also mentioned above.  It’s proven to be a huge hit with our students as well.  They love discovering what magnificent creation the Night Gardener crafts from page to page.  We’re not publishing experts, but we’ve got a sneaking suspicion this will be a classic in the years to come.}

If you like... Love You Forever by Robert Munsch You’ll love... Love Is by Diane Adams and Claire Keane

{This is a touching story about the things we care about - and the importance of patience, kindness, and finding something to love entirely.  It is embedded with a wonderful message that all children should learn.  Plus, it’s illustrated by Claire Keane who used to do animation at Disney - so the pictures are stunning.}

If you like... Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri You’ll love... Don’t Forget Dexter by Lindsay Ward

{If you have a little one, you’ve most likely read Dragons Love Tacos... more times than you can count.  Well, get ready for your child’s new favorite book: Don’t Forget Dexter.  It is a hilarious tale about a toy dinosaur who fears he’s been forgotten by his owner!  Filled with silly dinosaur neuroses and boisterous dinosaur noises, it’s a book that will tickle parent and child alike.  This book isn’t released until January 1st - but you need it on your radar, so pre-order it today!}

There you have it!  Whether you prefer to stick to the classics or are looking for a new cast of characters to add to your shelf, we hope our list provides some inspiration.  

Merry everything, readers!  We hope you have a happy, healthy, and bookish holiday season!  :)