Category Archives: Reading and Literature

You Want Me To Talk to My Kindergartener About Nazis?

I recoiled at reading a book about Nazis and the Holocaust to my kindergartener. But I eventually realized the wisdom of sharing Twenty and Ten with young children.

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Seven Reasons to Celebrate Picture Books

At Sonlight, we believe picture books are a vital, wonderful part of a child's education. So to celebrate Picture Book Month in November, here are seven reasons to snuggle up with your children and read a picture book right now. … Continue reading

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Extension Activities for James Herriot’s Treasury for Children

I love to supplement the literature-based approach of Sonlight with hands-on crafts and extension activities. Besides the Hands-on History kit available for purchase, I like to add on even more projects inspired by the great books we read. I find that … Continue reading

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5 Ways Read-Alouds Foster Mature Oral Communication Skills

My whole crew was sick with walking pneumonia and journeyed en masse to the doctor’s office. At the appointment, my six-year-old daughter and four-year-old son collectively informed the nurse that they felt feverish, fatigued, and as if they must gasp … Continue reading

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4 Reasons I Pre-read My Children's Books

Teaching Sonlight with a large family takes a delicate balance of the time I spend teaching, grading, and keeping track of assignments, with my need to work, clean, and cook. Finding the time to stay one step ahead of my children's … Continue reading

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4 Great Reasons to Read Your Favorite Book Again (& Again)

Did you know that I reread the Chronicles of Narnia, and especially my favorite, The Horse and His Boy, annually? One of the marks of a good book is that it grows along with you. It bears repeated readings and … Continue reading

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Jumping Dolphin Craft Plus More Extensions for Dolphin Adventure

As we progress through HBL A, I’ve been creating a series of activities to go along with each of the Read-Alouds. Although I’ve never been a very crafty parent, I find myself wanting to get involved with these extension projects! … Continue reading

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