Each month, we offer a kit packed with tips and suggestions around an early literacy calendar (also available in Spanish). Here’s a guide inspired by our December Early Lit Kit that will help you read, play, talk, sing, and write at home with your little ones:
Read: Read a book about mindfulness. (Here are a few to get you started.) What do you notice in these stories? One mindful tip is to place a beanbag or stuffed animal on your tummy while you breathe and watch it go up and down with each breath. Can you see your hands moving up and down on your tummy when you breathe?
Sing: The song “If You’re Happy and You Know It” is a fun song to use to talk about feelings. Try changing the lyrics to be about different emotions, like what you might do if you’re sad or excited.
If You’re Happy and You Know It
If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands (clap, clap) (x2)
If you’re happy and you know it, then your face will surely show it,
If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands (clap, clap)
(Count to three, Shout hooray, etc.)
Talk: Talk about what you notice when you practice counting 1-2-3 while you’re breathing in and out. Do you feel calmer? What happens when you try the same breathing two times in a row? Start a conversation about when breathing exercises might be helpful, like before naps or bedtime, or when you have big feelings.
Play: Use your steady breathing to blow bubbles with a bubble wand. How many bubbles can you blow with just one breath? Does it make a difference if you blow fast or slow?
Write: When you blow bubbles, try using your hands and fingers to pop them in different ways. Can you use your finger to poke them? Try pinching them with two fingers. Can you clap and pop bubbles?
Take time to breathe! These books will help you and your little ones notice emotions and feelings while making yourself aware of each moment.
