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Learning to Read in Four Weeks

This post is sponsored by Learning Dynamics. In exchange for an honest review I was given the program. All opinions are my own.

This past year was our first year doing home school. Our five year old was just under the cut off for kindergarten so I did a couple curriculum with her. Our main curriculum did not have a reading program so we used Learning Dynamics: Learning to Read in Four Weeks.

Learning Dynamics Reading Program

Because we were doing the other curriculum I did not push the Learning Dynamics so it took us longer than four weeks to learn to read. Knowing how shy my daughter was about reading out loud (she wouldn’t read to anyone other than me) I wanted to take it slow to not overwhelm her. That being said, she loved the program, loved the activities and learned to read in a couple months. I have no teaching background and it was relatively easy to use this program. The actual teaching portion was extremely easy to understand but I had trouble knowing which books to read and when once we started actually reading.

I’ve shared a review of Learning to Read in Four Weeks in the video below:

Learning to Read in Four Weeks

The program is simple and compact. I love that everything fits in one box that doesn’t take up a ton of shelf space. We knew we were only homeschooling for one year so I did not want to create a full school room. This curriculum was a great addition.

The program includes:

-Student Workbook
-Teacher Workbook
-Learning CD with Songs
-50+ Colorful books
-Flashcards
-Letter Rewards

There was very little prep work on my part as the teacher. I would read over the lesson plan that morning while getting together her other books for school that day. There were a couple days that there was an optional activity that I had to plan with supplies we had on hand.

Most days it was the same format where we would read the letter of the day, listen to the song that corresponded with that letter, color our workbooks, listen to the song a second time and eventually start reading the books.

She’s now able to read all of the books from the series and will pull them out sometimes to play school with her stuffed animals. The best way to learn is by teaching and Learning Dynamics was a great tool for both of us. Let me know what books you’ve loved reading recently with your kids!

If you’re just starting out with homeschooling or need help with organization I’ve done a video walk through you can check out here.

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24 Days of Christmas Books

24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- We love celebrating the holidays. Sophia and I are usually begging Jeffrey to put up the decorations before Thanksgiving. We just get so excited to watch all the holiday movies, snuggle in our jammies, drink cocoa and read lots of Christmas books. We now have almost enough Christmas books to read one per day in the month of December leading up to Christmas! Whether you’re buying new books and wrapping them as an advent calendar or checking them out from the library, here are 24 awesome Christmas books to read with your kids. We own or have read each of these and think they’re all wonderful.

24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

24 Days of Christmas Books

Book links are Amazon affiliates.

December 1
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Pete the Cat Saves Christmas– Spend the holidays with your favorite blue cat! In this rockin’ spin on the traditional tale The Night Before Christmas, Pete the Cat proves that giving your all in the spirit of Christmas is the totally groovy thing to do.

December 2
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Bear Stays Up for Christmas– Bear’s friends are determined to keep Bear awake for Christmas! So they wake Bear up and have him help them find a Christmas tree, bake cakes, hang up stockings, and sing Christmas songs. Bear stays up—by discovering that giving is one of the best Christmas presents of all!

December 3
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

The Christmas Wish– Long ago, a brave little girl named Anja wanted to be one of Santa’s elves. So she leaves a note for her family and helps her elderly neighbor prepare for the holiday, then she straps on her skis, and heads out into the snowy landscape. From a red bird to a polar bear to a reindeer, a menagerie of winter animals help Anja make her way to Santa. A generous trim-size, matte cover, extraordinary photographs, and foiled title make this a special book for the holiday season.

December 4
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving– In The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving Brother and Sister Bear can’t wait for Christmas and all the presents they’ll open. But during the Christmas Eve pageant, something special happens! The Bear cubs learn a very valuable lesson about the joy of giving to others.

December 5
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Pick a Pine Tree– Part of the magic of the Christmas season stems from the traditions that families and friends take part in every year: hanging up stockings; putting lights in the windows; and, one of the most important of all, picking out and taking home the Christmas tree. With style and warmth, debut author Patricia Toht and Jarvis, the author-illustrator of Alan’s Big, Scary Teeth, evoke all the rituals of decorating the tree — digging out boxes jam-packed with ornaments and tree trimmings, stringing tinsel, and, at long last, turning on those twinkling lights. Joyously drawn and rhythmically written, this celebration of family, friends, and the holiday season is as merry as the tradition it depicts.

December 6
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

How the Grinch Stole Christmas!– “Every Who down in Who-ville liked Christmas a lot . . . but the Grinch, who lived just north of Who-ville, did NOT!” Not since “’Twas the night before Christmas” has the beginning of a Christmas tale been so instantly recognizable. This heartwarming story about the effects of the Christmas spirit will grow even the coldest and smallest of hearts. Like mistletoe, candy canes, and caroling, the Grinch is a mainstay of the holidays, and his story is the perfect gift for young and old.

December 7
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Disney Christmas Storybook Collection– Celebrate the season with favorite Disney and Disney• Pixar characters! This updated edition of the top-selling storybook collection includes new stories with popular characters from films like Frozen, Wreck-It Ralph, and Tangled. This enchanting volume of 18 tales brings the magic of Christmas to life with over 250 beautiful full-page and spot illustrations plus silver-gilded pages!

December 8
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

A Christmas Carol– Follow miserly Scrooge as he is whisked through the night by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come in order to face his selfish treatment of Jacob Marley, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim. Families will enjoy reading this shortened version of Dickens’s story together, with its warm illustrations that capture every twist and turn.

December 9
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

The Nutcracker– Join Marie, Fritz, and the intriguing Nutcracker himself on a magical Christmas Eve adventure. Behold the frightful Mouse King, the elegant Sugar Plum fairies, and the entire Land of Sweets in this dazzling, gorgeously illustrated holiday classic. With spare text based on the story in the ballet, this book offers a front-row seat to the enthralling tale that is a perennial favorite of adults and children alike.

December 10
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Secret Santas and the Twelve Days of Christmas Giving– Children everywhere are learning how they can become members of the real-life, Secret Santa Team! With every page turned an exciting new adventure awaits, showing your child how he or she can spread kindness and cheer throughout the Christmas season. This tradition of hope, joy, and love paves the way for families to introduce their little ones to the joy that comes from giving to others in a magical and exciting way.

December 11
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Christmas Cookie Day!– Christmas Cookie Day! celebrates the beloved tradition of making Christmas treats and even features a special Christmas cookie recipe for you and your child to create. The bright illustrations by Pauline Siewert and sweet, rhyming text by Tara Knudson are sure to capture the wonder of young readers and parents alike. Perfect for building new memories, this board book has a beautiful, glittery cover.

December 12
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Zetta the Poinsettia– Zetta discovers she is more than just holiday decor in this tale of hope and self exploration.

December 13
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Polar Express– A young boy, lying awake one Christmas Eve, is welcomed aboard a magical trip to the North Pole . . . Through dark forests, over tall mountains, and across a desert of ice, the Polar Express makes its way to the city atop the world, where the boy will make his Christmas wish.

December 14
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Elfie the Elf– Granny has a bedtime story that her grandkids will never forget. When a little girl befriends an Elf in the north pole, the two learn about friendship, standing up for each other, and achieving your dreams. With a cast of characters including reindeer, elves, and Santa himself, Granny’s story seems larger than life. But is it?

December 15
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Little Blue Truck’s Christmas– It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Little Blue Truck is spreading cheer by delivering Christmas trees to his animal friends. Can you help count each green tree from one to five and back again? Don’t forget to save one for Blue! Beep! Beep!

December 16
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

The Littlest Christmas Tree– There are only five days until Christmas, and the Littlest Christmas Tree is still waiting for a home. All it wants is for a family to take it home, decorate it, and sing its favorite song, “Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, how lovely are thy branches…”

December 17
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Stick Man– Stick Man lives in the family tree
With his Stick Lady Love and their stick children three.
But one day, Stick Man is carried off by a mischievous dog who wants to play fetch! Things go from bad to worse as Stick Man is carried farther and farther away from home. Lonely and lost, Stick Man wants nothing more than to be home with his family for Christmas. And when he helps Santa Claus out of a bind, he finds the perfect ticket home!

December 18
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

The Little Reindeer (The Little Animal)– When a jingling sound wakes her from her sleep, a little girl’s dreams come true when she meets a lost reindeer in the forest. They set off on a magical adventure and it becomes a Christmas never to forget. Nicola Killen’s evocative illustrations are sure to enchant in this beautiful book with die cut pages, foil, and flashes of festive red.

December 19
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree– Christmas is here and Mr. Willowby’s tree has arrived! There’s just one big problem . . . the tree is too tall to fit in his parlor. He cuts off the top so it will fit, but little does he know that the top of that tree will travel clear across the countryside, bringing holiday cheer to the homes of bears, rabbits, mice, and more! This heartwarming story is the perfect way to start your yuletide season, and the perfect addition to your family’s festive holiday traditions.

December 20
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story (Picture Puffin Books)– This unforgettable tale, illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Barbara Cooney, has become a seasonal classic-a touching and joyful story about courage and the power of family.

December 21
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Merry Christmas Mom and Dad– Mercer Mayer’s Little Critter is getting ready for Christmas in this classic, funny, and heartwarming book. Whether he’s making wreaths, eating gingerbread cookies, or putting the star on the top of the tree, both parents and children alike will relate to this beloved story. A perfect way to celebrate the holiday season!

December 22
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

The Story of Holly and Ivy– Ivy, Holly, and Mr. and Mrs. Jones all have one Christmas wish. Ivy, an orphan, wishes for a real home and sets out in search of the grandmother she’s sure she can find. Holly, a doll, wishes for a child to bring her to life. And the Joneses wish more than anything for a son or daughter to share their holiday. Can all three wishes come true? This festive tale is perfectly complemented by beloved Barbara Cooney’s luminous illustrations, filled with the warm glow of the Christmas spirit.

December 23
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

Red and Lulu– Red and Lulu make their nest in a particularly beautiful evergreen tree. It shades them in the hot months and keeps them cozy in the cold months, and once a year the people who live nearby string lights on their tree and sing a special song: O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree. But one day, something unthinkable happens, and Red and Lulu are separated. It will take a miracle for them to find each other again. Luckily, it’s just the season for miracles. . . . From Matt Tavares comes a heart-tugging story combining the cheer of Christmas, the magic of New York City, and the real meaning of the holiday season: how important it is to be surrounded by love.

December 24- Christmas Eve!
24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

The Night Before Christmas– Since it was first published anonymously in 1823, “The Night Before Christmas” has enchanted children with the story of St. Nicholas climbing down the chimney and filling all the stockings before springing back to his sleigh. Many families read the poem every year, and now they have an edition to treasure. The cherished verse, faithfully reproduced here, is accompanied by Charles Santore’s lavish illustrations.

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24 Days of Christmas Books for Kids- DIY Mama- Book advent calendar

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Holiday Gift Ideas: Friends, Family and Significant Others

 

George: Discussion

Another awesome read from this book club! Our final book for Page turners was George
by Alex Gino. Although George isn’t a true story, I know it’s true to many children and adults in this world. George is a great children’s book to teach acceptance in others and I’m so thankful more books like this are being published. Did you get a chance to read it? I gave it a 5/5 stars. I’ve got 3 questions below, and Lisa’s got 3 as well over on her blog. Feel free to discuss any or all of the questions in the comment section or link-up your post at the bottom. Lisa and I are sharing the same link-up, so you don’t have to enter on both blogs. The linky will close in a week. Alright, let’s get started!

George by Alex Gino

George is a very fast read as it is meant for children but it has a big story. It was definitely written for kids but I loved the detail to the book’s environment. I hope this book or a similar story is made into a movie. The struggle of gender equality, gender awareness and gender acceptance is much better now than it has been in the past but it is still a problem throughout the world.

And now, for the discussion. Before I begin, I’ll remind you that there may be spoilers ahead. Also, feel free to use my questions as jumping points. Ask your own questions and start your own discussions.

George by Alex GinoGeorge: Discussion

1.  Who was your favorite character? My favorite character was Kelly. The relationship between her and Melissa was so pure. Sweet, strong, and silly all at once—just as friendships between little girls should be. I loved that the author had Kelly think for a little while about her best friend’s news before she fully accepted her. Her love and respect for her father is also really endearing and makes me happy that such little girls exist in this world.

2. What did you think about the teacher’s reactions in this book? I was frustrated but not surprised by Mrs. Udell’s reaction when George tried out for the part of Charlotte. She had a right to be confused and caught off guard but not to completely discount her as someone trying out for the role. In my opinion, she should have let George try out for the part and if she had issues with him playing a ‘girls’ role, she should have kept that to herself. I loved that the principal stood up for George and having an open door for her to feel welcome. 

3. I loved this quote from Muggle Net: George may not only help guide such children to a place of self-esteem and acceptance but also help their peers (and teachers!) be more compassionate allies. Do you think it would be a good idea to have this book in the classroom? 100% yes. Children need to know what transgender is so that children like Melissa are able to identify the struggle they may not know how to name. My hope is that by the time Sophie is in elementary school, children are able to try out for whatever gender role they please in a school play.
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading along with us this year! Lisa and I will continue to read but are not able to keep up with Page Turners any longer. With us working on our new house and the holidays ahead, I hardly have time to read the books I must read, let alone for pleasure. If you do read any particularly great books, please let me know!

Now, it’s your turn! Answer any or all of the questions in the comment section below. Ask questions of your own. Or, link-up a blog post with your review and/or the answers to these questions. Also be sure to check out Lisa’s discussion questions on her blog. We’re sharing the same linky, so no need to link-up on both blogs.

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Silver Linings Playbook (Discussion)

Another awesome read from this book club! I really enjoyed the movie Silver Linings Playbook and was not disappointed by the book. Many times in the past, I’ve been disappointed by the book if I’ve watched the movie first. I think the adaptation of the book to movie was done wonderfully and the actors were spot on.  Did you get a chance to read it? I gave it a 5/5 stars. I’ve got 3 questions below, and Lisa’s got 3 as well over on her blog. Feel free to discuss any or all of the questions in the comment section or link-up your post at the bottom. Lisa and I are sharing the same link-up, so you don’t have to enter on both blogs. The linky will close in a week. Alright, let’s get started!

Silver Linings Playbook

I loved the connection I had with the main character, Pat. Although I’m not a mentally unstable person (some may doubt me here) I really connected with Pat’s feelings and struggles when he would have his outbursts. Having watched the movie first saved me from being too emotionally distraught over the course of the book but I was still deeply involved with the characters feelings. 

And now, for the discussion. Before I begin, I’ll remind you that there may be spoilers ahead. Also, feel free to use my questions as jumping points. Ask your own questions and start your own discussions.

Silver Linings Playbook- Page Turners Book Club

1.  Were there any characters you had a hard time relating to? I was extremely frustrated with Pat’s Dad. I found myself getting the most upset by his actions (or lack there of.) Matthew (the author) mentioned several times how ‘people can’t change’ but people do change. Pat’s Mom changed in not wanting to put up with his disinterest and I think there has to be some kind of meeting of middle ground if you don’t want to hurt the people you love. I can understand his resentment and frustration with Pat but not to the extent of which he lived.

2. Where you surprised when you found out Tiffany wrote the letters from ‘Nikki’? I was furious at Tiffany. Like Pat, I couldn’t understand her betrayal. I know she is also mentally unstable, and once she explained herself, I softened to her side of the story, but was initially extremely upset. Tiffany should not have followed through with the letter fiasco knowing that Pat was so deeply tied to the thought of ending ‘apart time’ with Nikki.

3. Pat practices being kind rather than being right. What do you think of this mantra? Are ‘being kind’ and ‘being right’ mutually exclusive? This mantra was my favorite part of the entire book. I loved Pat’s heart when he would practice this mantra. It’s an extremely difficult mantra to follow and we would all be better for working on it. I don’t think ‘being kind’ and ‘being right’ are mutually exclusive. Many times you can be both, but more often, they are not the same. I think Pat working on this mantra made him much more open to the people in his life and helped him learn to deal with his aggression. Some might think of it as passive but I think of it as peaceful.

Now, it’s your turn! Answer any or all of the questions in the comment section below. Ask questions of your own. Or, link-up a blog post with your review and/or the answers to these questions. Also be sure to check out Lisa’s discussion questions on her blog. We’re sharing the same linky, so no need to link-up on both blogs.

Remember, our final book will be in October: George by Alex Gino. I’m really looking forward to this next read! Please, join us. We’ll be discussing George on October 29th.

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Page Turners Selection: October

Lisa and I are so happy to announce our book for October! It’s special because it’s the first new release we’ve selected (published August 25th) and it’s going to be our last book club selection. We’ve loved hosting our Page Turners book club but we’re both having a hard time keeping up with the books right now. With so many projects with the new house, spending more time with family and vacations I’m finding it hard to read even one book per month. So, we hope you’ll join us  for our final book this October:

George by Alex Gino

George by Alex Gino

Lisa first heard about George (Goodreads) on the Book Riot Podcast. It’s a book written for kids, and it’s about a boy named George who knows he’s really a girl. George wants to be Charlotte in his (her) school’s production of Charlotte’s Web but her teacher says no because she’s a boy. Well, shenanigans probably ensue so that she can let everyone who she is.George by Alex Gino

I think I’m going to love this book because it reminds me so much of Wonder, another children’s book also about acceptance. Hope you’ll join us! We’ll be discussing it on October 29th.

 

We’ve had a great run with our book club and may start it up again if things slow down in our lives. This will be our 10th book and we think it will be an awesome final book. Thanks for joining us!

And don’t forget, next week we’ll be discussing The Silver Linings Playbook on September 24th.

Page Turners book club by Expandng & DIY Mama

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