Fact: the mouse is king in Anaheim. However, if you’re willing to venture slightly beyond the mouse’s kingdom, you will discover that Anaheim has so much more to offer: eclectic food halls, a next-level children’s museum and science center, a swashbuckling pirate show/dinner and a whole other theme park! We explored it all so the next time your family heads south, you’ll want to hit them all up.
To See/Do/Play
Knott’s Berry Farm With humble beginnings as a berry farm nearly one hundred years ago, Knott’s Berry Farm touts itself as California’s original theme park and for good reason—Walt Disney himself was a visitor, pre-Disneyland. Today Knott's Berry Farm is best known for high-thrill coasters that push the limits (think: multiple inversions and > 90-degree drops). Shorties who don’t (or don’t want to) qualify for the coasters will find Camp Snoopy at just the right speed and thrill level.
Good to know: •Consider the Fast Pass upgrade to expedite wait times •Try the famous Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner restaurant along with their signature boysenberry jam but be prepared to wait (shops and a Ghost Town are nearby for entertainment)
Downtown Anaheim Farmer’s Market Over 30 vendors gather every Thursday at Center Street to hawk their food/wares. Varying from succulents and bee products to pet bandanas and almond butter, this market showcases both local talent and produce and it is impossible to leave without a purchase!
Discovery Cube With over 100 hands-on exhibits, this top-notch children’s science center and museum will keep little hands and minds engaged. At the Physics Lab, kids build race cars and test them against the clock or other cars, all while exploring physics as a byproduct. We also stepped into a wind tunnel to investigate aerodynamics, tried to engineer the perfect paper airplane and dabbled with altering 3D topography. Good to know: • A cafe serves up snacks and is denoted, appropriately, by a large “COFFEE” sign • The museum is mind-boggling expansive as we discovered we missed an entire wing on our way out so be sure to allow time to explore it all
Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Don your eyepatch and wood peg leg as your family embarks on an immersive evening of revelry and adventure. Divided into teams to involve audience participation, (clean) trash-talking is encouraged as you cheer your pirate on in daring tasks. Acrobatics, swordplay and stunts are all on the menu in addition to a full dinner—the hardest part will be getting the kids to pay attention to eat with all the spectacles going on!
Good to know: • The adults liked how there was an actual story plot and witty puns incorporated • Sensory sensitive kids may be overloaded with all the sounds and lights
Disneyland Having grown up in SoCal and gone regularly as a kid (RIP $30 tickets), it was thrilling to take my kids back to the magical world that is Disneyland. We enjoyed Skellabration at the Haunted House in addition to the festive holiday decorations but one of my favorite things about Disneyland during the holidays is the food! From Peppermint beignets from Mint Julep Bar to eggnog cold brew from Red Rose Taverne—give me all of it!
Good to know: • Rope drop is still the way to go. We recommend being at the park’s security lines 30-45 mins before opening so that you’re on Main St at opening • Fantasyland at rope drop has never failed us. At publishing of this article, there is no longer a virtual queue for Rise of Resistance so that’s where we would head • Consider ordering meals (and snacks) via the mobile app • There is currently no Fast Lane pass but Disney Genie and Genie+ is slated to be released at any moment so stay tuned!
Nosh
Anaheim Packing House This Insta-worthy food hall was one of the highlights of our trip—we loved the unique decorations of bright lanterns and swings, the airy open-space setting, the farmer’s park with its heart swing .. . oh! And all the artisan food options! The classic southern fried chicken at Georgia’s, miso ramen at Orange Tei, Strawberry Pocky (sorbetto on a stick) at Popbar and apple pie a la mode at Pie Hole were big hits for us. If you’re able to find it, kids 21+ can slip into the Blind Rabbit speakeasy
The Fifth This rooftop restaurant and bar located across the street from Disneyland means if timed properly, your family will enjoy a bird’s eye view of the fireworks on select nights (reservations highly recommended on those nights)! Casual enough for relaxing after a day at the park but also ideal for special occasions, we found the Fifth to be inviting and family-friendly. While there wasn’t a kid menu per se, we found plenty of kid options such as mini corn dogs, burgers, grilled cheese and pasta.
SteelCraft Built with repurposed shipping containers, SteelCraft aims to unite the community through local craft food and drink vendors, live music and other neighborhood events. We loved dining in the large, open-space communal dining space where there was space for kids to swing and play ping pong while waiting for our food. Our favorites included the Mexican x Asian fusion barrio ramen, made-to-order Duck donuts and washing it all down with coffee boba (other options include craft beer, wine and cocktails).
Getting Around
FRAN Free Rides Around the Neighborhood (FRAN) is a program utilizing open-air electric vehicles that the City of Anaheim uses to offer free, on-demand rides within its local downtown area. With sixteen points of interest and popular downtown destinations, riders can summon a ride at their convenience through an app or good ‘ole fashioned phone call and a vehicle is dispatched shortly. It was a fast, convenient method for us to travel around and the best part is that it was free!
Helpful tip: We found it fastest to call for a ride (714) 490-0486
Rest
Howard Johnson Anaheim & Water Playground Recently renovated, a mere eight-minute walk separates your family from this property and the gates of Disneyland if you can get the kids to leave the super fun Castaway Cove water playground (reservations are required). At 538 sq ft, the spacious Kids Suite can accommodate up to six guests with one king bed and twin bunk beds plus a sleeper sofa in a separate bedroom. Between the water playground and fun bunk beds, my kids declared HoJo Anaheim their new favorite hotel!
1380 S Harbor Blvd Anaheim, CA
Grand Legacy at The Park This hotel’s prime location across the street from Disneyland makes it a five-minute commute—it truly doesn’t get any closer and is faster than walking to Disney’s parking structures. This means you can easily be at rope drop after rolling out of bed or party until closing. Fifth restaurant (mentioned above) also makes its home at the rooftop here which, along with a pool for kids to splash and cool off in, is all the reason to consider staying here on your next visit.
1650 S Harbor Blvd. Anaheim, CA
Get Away Today has partnered with Visit Anaheim in a campaign to welcome families this winter. Whether you choose to travel with your family or give the gift of travel, the savings are yours with a third or fourth night free at select hotels and a free extra day at Disneyland with the purchase of four days!
—photos and story by Christine Lai
Editor’s note: This trip was sponsored by Visit Anaheim, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o released her first children’s book in 2019, and Sulwe quickly rose to #1 New York Times bestselling children’s book fame. Now, the author is back with a new special project.
It’s been announced that Nyong’o will narrate the audiobook edition of Sulwe, to go on sale Feb. 23. The story follows five-year-old Sulwe who goes on a magical journey in the night sky that opens her eyes to her own beauty.
photo: Matthew Soltesz
Nyong’o shares, “I’m thrilled to share Sulwe with readers in a new way. It was exciting for me to record the audiobook myself for listeners to get to hear the voices of Sulwe, her family, and the magical world of Night and Day as I hear them in my mind. I hope families will enjoy listening together and that it sparks conversations about what makes each of us uniquely beautiful.”
Inspired by Nyong’o’s own experiences with colorism and self-esteem, the audio book will also includes music influenced by Nyong’o’s Kenyan heritage. You can purchase the audiobook when it releases on Feb. 23 on Amazon for $6.13.
We’ve been reading for months now through all kinds of wonderful new books and, thanks mostly to our kids, have narrowed down our top picks for the best children’s books of 2020. From picture books to bedtime stories to graphic novels and chapter books for young readers, all those hours of reading added up to this vetted, mom-and-child-tested list. Read on for our choices.
Board Books & Books for Early Readers
My Favorite Color: I Can Only Pick One?
Candlewick Press
Fans of Aaron Becker's previous stunning board book You Are the Light will love the newest exploration of colors from the Caldecott-Honor-winning author-illustrator.
New York Times-bestselling and NAACP-Award-winning illustrator AG Ford comes together with Tameka Fryer Brown in their new collaboration, Brown Baby Lullaby. Gorgeous illustrations are paired with the sweet lullabye of parents caring for their baby. Using both Spanish and English, this book makes for the perfect bedtime story.
Help your kiddos learn the colors of the rainbow in addition to fine art with the Andy Warhol What Colors Do You See? board book. Using Warhol's signature style and love of color, this simple book brings his masterpieces to your little's fingertips in a fun and easy way. Available Jan. 21.
From activist, professor and father Ibram X. Kendi, this lovely picture book will help you and your kids learn about cultivating a more equitable world by following nine simple steps. We love this new and powerful read; it is filled with thoughtful rhymes and beautiful, bold illustrations.
Out in time for Pride Month (June) this early reader board book is the perfect way to engage kids, especially if you can't attend a Pride Parade this year. "1 Parade in the month of June/2 DJ's spin fabulous tunes." Michael Joosten's rhyming prose is perfectly accompanied by Wednesday Holme's bright illustrations.
Llama Llama is back! In the newest book, your fave character can't find his funny. Where could he be? Kids will love lifting the flap to help Llama find his bedtime bestie. Available Jan. 14.
This adorable new book series comes in a set of four: Equality, Happiness, Imagination and Truth. Each one features a famous philosopher (think Socrates and Simone de Beauvoir) and has vivid, fun illustrations any baby will love. There are also thought-provoking questions that are appropriate for the toddler set, and each book will inspire your tiniest readers to consider their place in the world.
In the sixth book of the This Little series, This Little Dreamer: An Inspirational Primer brings some of the most historic figures to light for young readers. The sweet illustrations share the tales of Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, Martin Luther King, Jr. and more with age-appropriate facts that are sure to inspire. Available Jan. 14.
The third book in the Tiny Travelers series takes readers on a journey from San Juan to Vieques. Created by a team of parents with multicultural backgrounds, the series promises a celebration of diversity with hidden treasures on every page. Great for kids of all ages, the interactive book is packed full of beautiful illustrations and rhyme-based storytelling.
From the beloved brand Highlights comes a new set of picture books for kids. One, in an A-Z format, this book will show kids all the different ways they can bring a little kindness into the world. Think helping with chores, delivering cookies to a neighbor, standing up for what’s right and more. The other does the same in counting form and featuring a diverse cast of kids and beautiful illustrations, these are both excellent books to read aloud in a classroom or at home before bedtime.
Though we’re not together we’re never truly apart, because you’re always on my mind and you’re always in my heart. This is what a mother tells her child as she leaves for work each day. This lovely board book perfectly captures the sentiment that many women feel about being a working mom. The lyrical text takes us through a mother’s day away, demonstrating that although she’s working hard, her child is always on her mind and always in her heart. Available Mar. 10.
Explore the adorable tiny houses of woodland critters in this interactive board book by Nicola Slater. In it, Alex—an orange tabby cat—visits one house after another, collecting new friends at every stop. At the end of the book, the rabbits, dogs, hedgehogs, squirrels, and bears join Alex outside to play catch with a touch-and-feel big, red ball.
Introduce your toddler to the legendary E.T., with this adorable interactive board book. Help E.T. find the right word to describe what going on in the picture by turning the wheel at the side. From what he likes to eat to what he wants to do with the phone, this sweet dose of nostalgia will be enjoyed by everyone.
Little mole is sad, so his mother takes him out of his dark, underground burrow to search for hope. They find it in flower bulbs that will become daffodils, trees that will grow green leaves in the spring, and a chrysalis where a butterfly will soon emerge. Close your eyes and imagine what's to come, Mama says, showing little mole that there's always hope when you're in a dark place. This sweet lesson shows kids how to endure their own challenges and find hope around them.
Just breathe.... This book provides a guided meditation that shows kids how to focus on their breathing and stay calm even when they have troubling thoughts in their head. Illustrations show how thoughts can feel—flitting like butterflies, stomping like monsters or popping like bubbles—while reassuring kids that even scary thoughts pass and that mindful breathing, just ten deep breaths, can put us at ease.
Jane Ormes' lift the flap board book all about the forest is a perfect addition to any baby or toddler library, and one that teaches more than just shapes or colors. A daddy deer is called a stag, a mommy bear is called a sow, a baby is called a kit. The flaps reveal the different names for baby animals, all accompanied by the woodlandy-cute illustrations that set it apart.
Hello, Elephant!; Hello, Bear! and Hello, Whale! Board Books
Candlewick Press
This large, sturdy board book format with lots of flaps will keep curious kiddos entertained while they learn all about the animals of the African savanna in Hello, Elephant; creatures of the ocean in Hello, Whale and forest friends in Hello, Bear! Author-illustrator sam Boughtons images are reminiscent of Eric Carle, in the best way possible.
Picture Books We Can’t Stop Staring At (& Reading)
Can Bears Ski?
Candlewick Press
This cheerful new book (released in November 2020) introduces readers to deafness and hearing aids in a totally kid-friendly way: Little Bear is having trouble hearing, but doesn't understand what is happening. He just keeps hearing funny phrases, like "Can bears ski?" The author, Raymond Antrobus was diagnosed with deafness at age seven and the illustrator, Polly Dunbar, became hard of hearing in her '20s. The result is a lesson in empathy that aims to destigmatize deafness and an excellent addition to any library, especially a classroom one.
Written by Smiriti Prasadam-Halls with luscious illustrations by David Litchfield, perhaps the author and the publisher both had a premonition about just how important this book would be in 2020. The message is clear, as Dolly Parton will tell you, "If you want rainbows, you gotta' put up with the rain." This beautiful book rhymes its way through a magical world that is full of thunder and clouds and kindness and clarity. This is a great bedtime book, too and though its written for ages 3-7, older kids will get some comfort from it at night as a girl and her fox companion move away from a sorrowful past, through challenges, and into a new tomorrow. Sounds about right, no?
Mexican-artist and author-illustrator Flavia Z. Drago's stunning debut picture book full of bright illustrations that bring to mind gorgeous papel picado paper-cuts as we adventure through Gustavo's world. Gustavo doesn't like to talk much and has trouble making friends, but soon he learns his other gifts are something the world (and his friends) need.
There are a lot of tough times for kids in life, and moving away or losing a friend to a move can be really hard at any age. This beautiful book by Newbery medalist Meg Medina, illustrated by Sonia Sanchez, helps children process more of those big feelings and remember that friendship is in our hearts. This is also a helpful book during these times when playdates are few and far between.
The second book from the author of Jamie Is Jamie: A Book About Being Yourself and Playing Your Way focuses on teaching kids gender-neutral pronouns. Jamie goes on a walk with Bubbie (grandma) and along the way has to correct Bubbie when she assumes genders about some of the people they meet. Includes a special section for parents and educators and makes an excellent gift for any classroom.
Claude is a celebrity alligator and the mascot for San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences. His story started almost 25 years ago in Louisiana, where he hatched out of his egg to discover he looked different from the other hatchlings. They were green and Claude was white. The other hatchings avoided him, and his color made him vulnerable to predators. So Claude went to a special zoo that cared for alligators where he lived in a pen by himself. Now he was safe—but alone. Find out what happens to Claude in this wonderful new book by Emma Bland Smith.
With a can-do attitude, Cor Cor shows that with enough determination anything is possible. Cor Cor's readers learn about places around the world, as he explores exciting destinations from his wheelchair. Whether admiring the northern lights in Iceland or meeting kangaroos in Australia, no adventure is off-limits.
As a wheelchair user that has visited all seven continents, co-author Cory Lee always wanted to read a book that he could relate to while growing up. Collaborating with his mom, co-author Sandy Gilbreath, they created this children’s picture book to show that the possibilities for all children are limitless, regardless of their abilities.
Part fairy-tale, part woodland adventure, author-illustrator Lucy Fleming will transport your kiddos to a forest family of creatures work together to make one little, tiny person's dream comes true. Celebrates the power of generosity and helping those who may have an issue they are dealing with (Ella can't go out in the day). It also makes an utterly beautiful bedtime read.
With bright watercolor illustrations, this book tells the story of how an imaginative lion named Guion shows his friends how to see magic in their everyday world. Inspired by the author's three kids, including her oldest with Down syndrome, the book shows readers how to change their perspective and find a little magic in their own lives too. The book ends with suggestions for fun activities for families to play together, building on the themes in the book.
The shoulders on the drag queen go shimmy, shimmy, shimmy...all through the town.
Fans of Drag Queen Story Hours around the country will love this book from Lil' Miss Hot Mess, one of the first Queens to host DQSH. Bright, playful illustrations by Olga de Dios add the perfect touch to this update on the classic "wheels on the bus" song that aims to teach little kids everywhere...there's nothing wrong with a little swish in your step.
Mom and author Sara Olsher wrote the book she wished she could have given her own daughter while they navigated her own divorce. Written with clear words and bright illustrations, this book shows kids that even though divorce is scary, it is something lots of families get through. Olsher's life mission is to help little people through tough times, including how to talk to kids about a parent's cancer diagnosis and the coronavirus.
Clarissa the cottage doesn't want to be adorable, she wants to be scary like her parents, a witch's hut and a creepy castle! Told in lyrical stanzas, Clarissa embarks on a journey to learning to be her very best self.
A beautiful, empowering picture book from Meena Harris about two sisters who work with their community to effect change, inspired by a true story from the childhood of the author’s aunt, Kamala Harris, and mother, lawyer and policy expert Maya Harris.
This story about a little girl who is very close with her grandma and the girl's experience as her grandma's dementia progresses. It is an excellent child's eye view of this often confusing and heartbreaking disease and a great tool for parents and caregivers to engage kids in the conversation of aging, dementia and alzheimers.
Geisel Honor Winner Kara LeReau teamed up with Caldecott Medal winning illustrator Matthew Cordell to introduce readers to "the newest star in the circus: Baby Clown!" Frieda and Boffo clown's little make-up ready clown is adorable, but he's also not very happy. Laugh out loud as Baby Clown cries his way through the circus acts, diaper changes, feedings and nap. As any parent can attest, though, the show must go on. Find out how on Apr. 14.
The true story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, a man who, in the midst of the on-going Syrian civil war, managed to find and offer safe haven to dozens and dozens of abandoned pet cats. A somber but important book that offers kids’ a glance at the effects of war, this inspiring tale is accompanied by wonderful illustrations.
"When work is done, it's time for FUN!" Explore the forest, the canyon, fields and more beyond the job site where these adorable dinosaur-equipment characters find out that fun can mean work (and work can be fun!). Written and illustrated by Michael Whaite.
Meet Cornelius J. Sparklesteed. He has a secret. He’s a unicorn!! He also lives in Hoofington, where lots of nasty rumors about unicorns get passed around. They’ve gone so far as to announce that unicorns aren’t welcome. So, Cornelius designs fabulous hats to conceal his secret, and along the way, garners the admiration of friends and even the mayor! This shiny, sparkly book is a delightful read, and more importantly, shows that sometimes, different isn’t just weird, it’s AWESOME.
Little Meg has a unique skill; she can build almost anything out of cardboard. She enjoys the maker spotlight until one day she meets Simone, who shares the same abilities. This book follows their antics as they try to out-construct each other. DIY directions for some of Meg's favorite creations are included at the back of the book.
When debut author Angela Joy set out to teach her children their first Black History lesson she was not expecting her preschooler to say, "But Mama, we're not black, we're brown." It was then that she realized that she wanted her children, and all children, to understand that being Black was about culture as much as color. And so Black Is a Rainbow Color was born. Vibrant, stained-glass like artwork by Coretta-Scott King Award-winning illustrator Ekua Holmes accompanies Joy's poetic text as we join a little girl on a journey to discover all the wonderful things that Black is.
"Black is the robe of Thurgood's back. Black are the trains on railroad tracks. Black are the eyes on salted peas. Black are the shadows of ooo-old magnolia trees."
Includes a suggested playlist as well as an expanded explanation of the historical references in the text to allow parents to explain Black history to their kids. It's an exceptionally designed, written and thoughtful new book appropriate for kids of all ages and ethnicities. We can't wait to see what Joy does next. Available Jan. 14.
Ages: Suggested age, 4-8, but we think even older kids can benefit from this book due to the important historical talking points in the back of the book
This incredibly compelling book written by Thomas Harding and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup tells "The True Story of a House, Its History, and the Four Families Who Made It Home" and follows the history of a house taken from a family by the Nazis. Though it could end there, the author continues to tell the story of the new families who came to live in the walls and make it a happy home over the years. A deeply moving reminder of the sorrow of loss and the hope of new beginnings.
Fred is bound to make school less boring. The creative boy decides that his teacher is a robot, and takes his friends on a fantastical journey that only the wildly imaginative mind of a child can do.
While this book is technically a Kickstarter campaign (ends April 19), we just had to share. A beautiful collection of 30 stories about kids from all over the world, it includes fun facts and activities that help bring each culture to life. Available now for pre-order, books will be shipped in November—which makes this a perfect holiday gift.
If you read Jessica Love's Julián Is a Mermaid, a beautiful book about gender identity and acceptance, you'll love Julián at the Wedding. Just as gorgeously illustrated, this time we find Julián and his abuela heading to a wedding where Julián is in the wedding party. He makes a new friend and together they enjoy the beauty and enchantment of a magical wedding. A wonderful view of how young children see love and another homerun for acceptance and individuality that every family should own.
Author-illustrator Deborah Marcero brings us a beautifully illustrated picture book about the beauty of ordinary things and the magic of young friendships. Little bunny Llewellyn is a collector of ordinary things, "like buttercups, feathers, and heart-shaped stones" along with cherry colored sunsets and the shadows of summer with his friend, Evelyn. But when Evelyn moves away, they stay connected in a most magical way. Each page delights with "jars" of illustrations your children will love discovering. Available Jan. 21.
The first picture book from renowned astrophysicist Ray Jayawardhana is a delight. Set as a poem, Child of the Universe is a sweet meditation on the fact that from the literal stardust that makes our bodies to the atoms that connect us, we are all connected to the universe and to one another. (Available March 17)
Your child's Spanish will be muy bien thanks to this picture book that introduces common Spanish words organized by categories including animals, body parts, food, colors, numbers, household objects and more. The words are introduced with kid-friendly images that make learning both informative and enjoyable.
This remarkable biographical picture book, written by Lisa Robinson and illustrated by Rebecca Green, introduces young readers to one of the trailblazing women of the circus arts! In revolutionary France, a young girl named Marguerite dreamed of becoming a tightrope dancer, and she dazzled from the young age of nine, going on to garner the admiration of crowds. She became known as Madame Saqui. This is her remarkable story!
If the adorable illustrations from award-winning artist Miguel Ordóñez (Jimmy Fallon’s Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada) don’t draw you in, then the funny, lively prose and the smattering of Spanish words thrown into this twist on a classic fairy tale by author Susan Middleton Elya will. There’s even a glossary of words at the front for kids to reference.
The dreamy watercolor wash of a magical undersea world comes to life in Anna Pignataro's The Heart of a Whale, the story of a whale whose beautiful song calms all the aquatic creatures and whose lonely sigh calls out to another whale across the sea. Enchanting, magical and incredibly sweet. Available Jan. 28.
This just-published book by Janet Sumner Johnson, illustrated by Courtney Dawson, is for every kid who has ever had a parent too busy to read a bedtime story. When it happens to Shailey, she takes matters into her own hands. She fires her dad, posts a help wanted sign and the offers start rolling in…from her favorite fairytale characters. Find out who winds up reading bedtime stories to Shailey when you sit down to read this cute book with your crew.
Fred's Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers
Simon & Schuster
This picture-book biography by Laura Renauld, illustrated by Brigette Barrager, reminds us all of one of the purveying messages from Mister Rogers Neighborhood and Fred Rogers' life: it's okay to have feelings. The book takes us from his childhood finding his feelings through the piano, his grandfather McFeely's unconditional love, the feeling of gaining confidence in high school by being compassionate, through the feeling that children's television was conveying the wrong message: and Fred's feeling that he should change it. This book teaches kids not only about Fred Rogers life and legacy, but also to express and embrace their own feelings. Available Jan. 14.
Ages: 4-8 (but we grown-ups really enjoyed it, too!)
Helena Ku Rhee's wonderful new picture book tells the story of little Daniel, whose parents work as night janitors, usually while he sleeps. When the babysitter can't make it, Daniel has to go along with his parents to the big glass building they clean. Little does he know it is the land of the Paper King. Inspired by Rhee's own parents, this is the story of hardwork and imagination, and a reminder to be kind. Beautifully illustrated by Pascal Campion.
The democratic process comes to the jungle with this debut picture book by Brazilian authors Paula Desgualdo & Pedro Markun and illustrators André Rodrigues & Larissa Ribeiro. Yes, Lion is the King but when his selfish behavior causes his subjects to dissent, they decide it's time to hold an election. Each candidate campaigns with their unique attributes: Sloth, Snake, Monkey and more all bring something new to the table. A great way to teach kids about elections in a non-partisan way.
Penned by Sharon Langley, the famously photographed African-American who rode a carousel at Baltimore's Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in 1963, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of peacefully fighting for equality.
Katarina's dreams are bigger than city life. The ten-year-old has it in her heart to become the best: a prima ballerina. Despite not having any training, Katarina sets out to win a coveted spot in an international dance camp that is sure to make her a start.
"When someone opens a door to you, go forward." Young Frances Perkins spent her life heeding the wise words her grandmother taught her as a little girl. Kathleen Krull's The Only Woman in the Photo tells the story of Frances Perkins, the first woman to ever sit on a presidential cabinet. Perkins became Franklin D. Roosevelt's trusted advisor, and it is Perkins you can thank for such things as child labor laws, unemployment insurance and social security. Illustrations by Alexandra Bye bring the life and times of this persistent, fearless trailblazer to life.
Olympia, Washington-based paper artist, Nikki McClure, released this beautiful book about the power of creativity and community at the end of February. It follows a family for a day in a small town, wondering with each turn of the page, what these hands will make. Will they make a fiddle? Fire from a stack of wood? How about a beautiful bouquet or a house for swallows? McClure’s recognizable art showcases the potential of each possible creation in the most compelling way.
A beautiful picture book based on the life and journey of who most consider the father of modern art. This lovely work follows the life of the painter Paul Cézanne, who never gave up, even when the Parisian critics rejected his work, never gave up his mission to be a great painter, and was always evolving in style and technique. And yes, he really did have a parrot!
Geraldine and the Most Spectacular Science Project
Geraldine is a spunky second-grade student who loves science but sometimes has a hard time paying attention in class. When her teacher announces the science contest, she’s determined to take the prize. With lots of hard work, a pile of everyday stuff, and tons of confidence (she doesn’t let her fellow students' whispers get her down), Geraldine creates something truly amazing. A great story for kids who like to dream. (Available Feb 28th)
Beautifully illustrated with charcoal, ink and watercolor, this sweet story about the friendship between a young girl and a bison evolves into a tender tale of loss and the passage of time. Ultimately, the girl learns that the bison will always be in her heart, so this may be a good story to help a young reader understand the loss of a loved one.
Learn the true, amazing story of young Peter Wetzel, whose family attempts to escape East Germany in 1979 in a homemade hot air balloon. The story explains, in kid-friendly terms, about the differences between East Germany and West Germany and how his family and close friends prepare to risk their lives for the promise of a better one.
Introduce your modern kid to the world of reporting and writing for an independent newspaper. Join Nellie, the new kid in Bear Creek, Maine (and the daughter of two newspaper veterans), as she strives to uncover who’s behind the recent attacks of vandalism. She’ll need a whole crew of journalists, who might, in the end, end up being new friends too.
The Spirit of Springer: The Real-Life Rescue of an Orphaned Orca
This newly released book, by author Amanda Abler and illustrator Levi Hastings, details the real-life rescue of Springer, a northern resident orca found swimming alone in Puget Sound in 2002. The book immerses kids in the thrilling details of the heroic rescue and even follows up with Springer in the present.
This alphabet book stars women artists including iconic painters like Georgia O’Keefe and Frida Kahlo but also puts the spotlight on lesser-known artists like Mirka Mora, Judith Leyster and more. Each page has a short explanation of the works that define each artist (for example, legendary photographer Dorthea Lange is X is for EXposure), and if older kids want to learn more, the back pages have extended biographies. Beautiful illustrations complete this lovely picture book that's bookshelf worthy.
Exploring the Elements: A Complete Guide to the Periodic Tables
Phaidon
We're not gonna' lie, with all of this at-home schooling parents can use all the help they can get and this smart, well-designed book will give any kid (and their parents) a little guidance when it comes to the basics of chemistry. Written by Isabel Thomas and illustrated by Sara Gillingham. It's like the textbook you wish you'd had as a student.
A ghostly, fantastical tale written and illustrated by Irish author P.J. Lynch, this picture book for older readers is full of ghosts, love and an underwater world that is both haunting and beautiful. It reads like an ancient story someone once whispered to you as you walked the shores, and yet is completely new.
The subtitle says it all in this brightly illustrated (William Luong) book by author Mifflin Lowe: Real Stories about Black Cowboys, Women Sharpshooters, Native American Rodeo Stars, Pioneering Vaqueros, and the Unsung Explorers, Builders, and Heroes Who Shaped the American West.
Engaging, full of awesome pictures and rich with historic info every kid (and their parents) should learn.
Not your average reference book, author Jules Howard presents a thorough investigation of the wonder of bones in this hardcover volume with insanely-amazing illustrations by Chervelle Fryer, who manages to be both scientifically accurate and aesthetically pleasing at the same time. Seriously, you'll wish you could frame this whole book. The added bonus? Kids will learn all about bones and skeletons, from horses to flying foxes to penguins. The book is arranged by "type" of animal: jumping, flying, running, swimming, etc. A must-buy for any kid's reference library.
A seek and find book with a beautifully simplistic and minimal approach, Jorrien Peterson's new work is a can't miss. Kids will learn about nine unique biomes (naturally occurring communities), what makes them special, be challenged to find specific flora and fauna and answer a question at the end of each "lesson."
Shannon Hale and Dean Hale's beloved character is back to try to solve the "big problem," a noisy stomping giant. The eighth book in this New York Times bestselling series, the illustrations by LeUyen Pham are just as important to telling the story as the Hale's well-crafted words. A perfect first-chapter book series.
This graphic novel written by Matthew Cody and illustrated by Yoshi Yoshitani features young Zatanna, daughter of a magician but don't be fooled. It's a very in-depth story about a young girl—mourning her mother and being bullied in school—who embarks on an utterly fantastical adventure through a house of secrets, full of riddles, enemies, unexpected friends and the afterlife.
Dav Pilkey's latest in the Dog Man series is full of laughs, as per usual. This time, Dog Man turns in his badge and resigns his post. Will he get back on the force? Read it to find out!
This fun graphic novel follows a tween Diana (aka Wonder Woman) on the island of Themyscira. As the only child on the island, she faces bouts of loneliness and ends up trying to make a friend, with unintended consequences. Featuring strong female protagonists and vivid illustrations, this is a great choice for early elementary-school kids.
Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Immigrant Women Who Changed the World i
Rebel Girls
This wonderful collection by Elena Favilli, the third in the Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls series, covers famous immigrant women from Josephine Baker to Rhianna. In the signature style, it is beautifully illustrated by women artists from around the world and full of relatable stories and facts for rebel kids to learn about these fierce and awesome women.
Retired pirates! Secret Codes! Witches! Sea Monsters! If that isn't enough to entice you to read this heavily illustrated chapter book, the fact that Warren the 13th is full of puzzles and riddles just might. In this adventure, we find Warren managing his family's floating hotel and planning his 13th birthday party. In this final adventure for Warren, part of a three-book series, Author Tania Del Rio's and illustrator Will Staehle bring us one of the most entertaining and unique books of 2020.
Ages: 10-12
Buy it now. $12
Chapter Books We Love
Tristan Strong Destroys the World (Tristan Strong Book 2)
Penguin Random House
Part of Rick Riordan Presents, this book blows just about every other book of its kind out of the water with humor, history and some seriously amazing and heart-touching themes including children facing trauma, in a way that is perfectly relatable to young readers. Tristan, who has returned from his previous epic adventure to the land of African-American folk heroes (Alke) with PTSD, is forced to return to Alke—this time to rescue beloved grandma! Themes of resilience are interwoven artfully with loveable heroes (like Gum Baby, Tristan's other world sidekick) and larger-than-life characters. Our editor's son, who poured through every Rick Riordan and Rick Riordan Presents book written to date, said this is by far one of his favorite books of the year.
Aru Shah and the Tree of Wishes (Pandava Series, Book 3)
Penguin Random House
If the Tristan Strong is our editor's son's favorite this year, Aru Shah is a close second. Another series in the Rick Riordan presents, now 14-year-old Aru Shah returns to the Otherworld from books 1 & 2, based on characters and the landscape from the epic Hindu poem, the Mahabharata, this time to help a captive clairvoyant. The richness of voice and humor is present throughout.
When a child goes through a divorce, many things change. When ten-year-old Bea's parents tell her they are getting a divorce, they present her with a list of the things that will not change, including their love for her. Follow Bea as she navigates her big feelings as her dad remarries, and things definitely change, yet always returning to that list of things that don't, which author Rebecca Stead navigates artfully and age-appropriately.
The eagerly awaited new book from Rick Riordan (and the final in the Trials of Apollo) series does not disappoint with all of your favorite characters and monsters together for an epic conclusion, masterfully and hilariously written by one of the best incredible-adventure telling, middle grade authors to grace our shelves since Tolkien. (Yeah, we read Tolkien in middle school! #booknerds).
The Quest for the Crystal Crown (The Story Pirates Present)
Random House
Based on an original idea by a real kid! The third book in The Story Pirates Presents series, it's like two books in one. The first part is the story about an enchanted city, and the second part of the book is all about how to create your own fantasy adventure, including creative writing tips and tricks.
This beautiful book kicks off a new series by Newbery Honor author Amy Timberlake, illustrated by beloved artist and Caldecott medalist Jon Klassen (I Want My Hat Back, The Dark, and others). In Skunk and Badger (Skunk and Badger Book 1) we are introduced to a classic new odd-couple that will quickly grab your kiddos' hearts.
This is the second middle grade novel from Bay Area author Mae Respicio and it is full of Filipino folklore, history and cuisine. Any Day with You is a warm, tender story about a creative girl who hopes that by winning a filmmaking contest, she’ll convince her great-grandfather not to move back home to the Philippines.
New in January of 2020, author Tiffany Jewell aims to dismantle racism by helping readers understand the origins of racism, current racism in our society and how to stand up against racial oppression. Each chapter builds on the previous one as you learn more about yourself and racial oppression and it includes 20 powerfully effective activities to get you thinking and help you learn and grow.
Recommended age: The publisher list ages 11+ but we think every family should own a copy of this and read it together.
Ramona Quimby gets a modern update with Ryan Hart and her middle-class family. Newberry Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Renée Watson starts a new chapter book series for budding readers with Ways to Make Sunshine. The intro novel follows Ryan as she navigates family that includes her dad finding a job after a long period of unemployment, school and self-image. No matter what she faces, Ryan knows how to make sunshine out of any situation.
Sandy Stark-McGinnis' second middle school novel offers a hopeful yet heart wrenching story of a young girl dealing with her mother's early onset Alzheimer's diagnosis. Cassie and her dad are handling all the new changes quite well until Mom forgets Cassie's name, and she struggles to stay connected to friends and her art. Tough topics abound in this middle grade story that follows Cassie as she decides to break one of her dad's rules to make her mom happy.
Imagine a world where girls loved their body just as it is. Love Your Body, a new book by Jessica Sanders strives to make this a reality. With “imperfect” illustrations, this book helps show girls that their bodies are powerful instruments, rather than just an object. It covers all shapes and sizes, what happens with puberty hits, and even has tips and tricks that may help girls feel better about themselves.
Dark Hedges, Wizard Island, and Other Magical Places That Really Exist
Readers will learn all about mysterious and mystical places that really exist, like The Skeleton Coast, The Fairy Tale Route and even the Lost City of Petra. Piquing the interest of budding and seasoned travelers alike, this is an ideal book to read with kids who are curious about all the unusual things out in the big wide world.
Billed as 5 bookzzz in 1, Tedd Arnold's popular Fly Guy Presents series including Sharks, Dinosaurs, Insects, Bats and Snakes, are compiled into one book. In each chapter, Fly Guy and Buzz introduce kids to these "scary" animals with facts, photos and Fly Guy commentary.
If your kid likes the Wimpy Kid series, this new set of stories might be right up his alley. Meet Iggy. He's a mischevious kid who will go through a series of doing bad things, from kinda bad to really bad. Then he'll deal with the consequences. Told with a dry wit and including plenty of fun illustrations, this easy chapter book is perfect for kids mastering their reading skills.
Part choose-your-own-adventure, part mystery, part activity book, the newest book in the Escape This Book series by author Bill Doyle and illustrator Sarah Sax will have your kids reading, laughing, drawing and puzzling out an "escape route" from an Egyptian tomb by choosing one of three paths. Educational and interactive, this might be the best book for travel we've seen in ages.
Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw: The Friend Thief Book 2
Epic Originals
Head back to Nottingham Elementary for another adventure! Robin is happy to be "back together" with her BFF after "winning" her back from the schoolyard bully, Nadia. But Nadia starts to win over the other kids including Robin's bestie. The second book in this Robin Hood inspired series, find the first one here. Written by Gina Loveless, illustrated by Andrea Bell.
In the vein of books like Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls, this illustrated book aims to empower and inspire kids by telling incredible stories of courage, ingenuity and deep commitment of kids who have changed (and are changing) the world. Amy Blackwell's rich illustrations accompany author Amandi Li's account of true-life tales of 29 incredible, ordinary kids including activist Great Thunberg, shark-attack survivor and surfer Bethany Hamilton, football (soccer) star Pelé, and more.
Small & Mighty: An Activist's Guide for Finding Your Voice & Engaging with the World
Gibbs Smith
Filled with six activity-packed chapters, this interactive journal encourages young people to find and share their voice. Young activists will find checklists, stickers, worksheets, and introspective activities that will encourage them to think about their future and the world around them.
Ages: 9-14
Get it here, $16.99; Find Girl Almighty: An Interactive Journal for Being a Mighty Activist of the World & Other Utterly Respectable Pursuits here, $16.99
A Girl, A Raccoon, and the Midnight Moon
Chronicle Books
Karen Romano Young introduces readers to a group of kid (and raccoon) activists who are fighting to save their local library. If that fact alone isn't enough to get you reading (raccoon activists! library lovers!) her frequent references to Edna St. Vincent Millay, delightful footnotes, and magically-infused writing should do it. Classic illustrations by Jessixa Bagley's add even more enchantment to the pages.
From first-time author J.M.M Nuanez comes a story about a girl named Jack and her gender non-confirming little brother Birdie. A beautifully written tale about loss, sibling relationships, and how love and understanding can grow and thrive, even for the most unexpected families. Strong characters and flowing prose make this stunning debut a must-read book for 2020.
We Had to Be Brave: Escaping the Nazis on the Kindertransport
Harrowing real-life stories come to life in award-winning author Debrah Hopkinson’s non-fiction retelling of families torn apart by Nazi Germany. With interviews, photos and detailed research, Hopkinson approaches what might be, for middle-grade kids, their first non-fiction account of the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Holocaust, with incredible details and readable prose. An important contribution to YA literature.
Before Hermione and Katniss, there were brilliant queens, clever villagers and brave girls who were saving the world around them—even if you’ve never heard their stories. Now is their chance to shine in this lovely collection of folktales from China, Russia, Persia, India, France, Germany and more. These strong protagonists are ideal role models for young girls.
As an Indian American girl in a small town, Lekha hides her differences and avoids confrontation so she won't get teased. But when a new Indian girl moves in across the street, she teaches Lekha about prejudice, pride in her culture and the power of her own voice.
Lotta, Egg, Fenna, Sem, and Milou are orphans in 19th century Amsterdam. In all the years that Little Tullip Orphanage headmistress Elinora Gassbeek has been in charge, she's never seen more unusual arrivals than that of these five. Each with mysterious beginnings, all with unique character, they become known as "the unadoptables." When they unearth a villainous plan from their apparent adopted patron, they escape together into the frozen streets and canals of Amsterdam. What follows is the discovery of who they are and where they came from. With delightful prose and an excellent plot, readers will be captived until the last page of this fantastic debut by author Hana Tooke.
When her father gets sick, 12-year-old Piper is sent to live at her grandmother's house. The grand estate and its garden hold many secrets: Who are the mysterious children who live on the property? And is Piper's grandmother really a witch? Piper needs answers to help heal her father.
From Newbery Award-winning novelist Mildred D. Taylor comes the end of the Logan family saga that began with Song of the Trees and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. In All the Days Past, Cassie Logan is all grown up and trying to find her place in the world. Her journey takes her to Toledo, California, law school in Boston and finally, back to Mississippi in the '60s to help with voter registration. She will be witness to the rise of the civil rights movement, which is preceded by racist American white society, and the often violent confrontations that bring about historical change.
America's Test Kitchen has just released their newest book, My First Cookbook and its one for every little up and coming chef. The photo-focused book introduces kitchen language, equipment, helpful kitchen prep and tons of step-by-step instructions that littles (and cooking-challenged adults) will adore. Enjoy simple and delicious recipes for appetizers and snacks, main meals, seasonal goodies and international recipes.
Perfect for budding bakers, The Llamacorn Cookbook's bright photos and easy recipes will inspire everyone. The 96-page book shares 45 recipes, many of which use store bought items to make cooking easy and fun––especially for parents. Kiddos can whip up Llamacorn's Meringue Cookies, Enchanged Unicorn Horns and Lah-Tee-Dah Pink Limeade and plenty more whimsical treats.
The Peanuts gang is here to spice up your kiddos lunch! Packed with over 50 recipes and 60+ comic strips, this fun cookbook puts a fun twist on kid-friendly recipes, sneaking in a fair amount of fruit and veggies in the process.
Over 60 royal recipes await in the new Disney Princess Baking cookbook. With categories that include morning treat, cakes, bars, cookies, pies and tarts, this comprehensive baker's book is great for budding chefs. While the recipes are a little more complex for a beginner, they make the perfect challenge for kiddos looking to up their skills.
Baskin-Robbins has teamed up with actor and author Taye Diggs to bring the magical world of the brand’s new Creature Creations lineup to life with the release of a children’s e-book titled The Festival of Creatures, available for free online. Written by Diggs and inspired by the whimsical Creature Creations characters, the story takes young readers on a wildly imaginative journey to an enchanted ice cream land, complete with sprinkle-studded paths and milkshake shores. On their way, the three lovable Creatures learn about the importance of kindness and acceptance, no matter how different they think they may be.
“Giving or receiving kindness can help boost your happiness, and this story showcases that we all have that power inside of us,” said Diggs. “I’m incredibly passionate about this story, which has given me an opportunity to spark positivity in all who read it and tell a tale that’s all about celebrating our differences. The Creatures and their personalities provide the perfect avenue to tell that story in a way that everyone can enjoy.”
Readers will meet three whimsical Creatures, the Unicorn, Mermaid and Monster, and learn about their colorful personalities as they journey through a mythical realm in search of the ultimate ice cream celebration. Even tough they all come from different lands the unlikely trio learn they are stronger together and become the best of friends.
“Taye brought each of the Creatures’ personalities to life in this story, and he showcases the power we each have to be accepting of our differences and confident in our uniqueness. We hope this e-book provides families everywhere with a fun way to teach kindness and acceptance,” said Shannon Blakely, Vice President of Marketing at Baskin-Robbins.
Families can continue their own Creature adventure at home with new DIY Creature Creations Kits inspired by the ice cream lineup released in July. Complete with everything you need to make the Unicorn, Mermaid, or Monster, these kits offer the perfect family activity on the heels of story time or as an afternoon adventure. Each kit includes all the ingredients to make five complete Creature Creations, including two quarts of Baskin-Robbins ice cream, colorful sprinkles, five Creature-inspired cups and five white chocolate toppers. Customize your DIY kit with our Variety offering, which lets you choose any combination of the three different Creatures depending on which you want to create! Each kit also comes with Creature-inspired crowns.
Available at participating locations nationwide, you can plan ahead for the next family story time by ordering your DIY Creature Creations Kit online at order.baskinrobbins.com or through the Baskin-Robbins mobile app. The Creatures, along with other Baskin-Robbins favorites, can also be enjoyed from home through “no contact” delivery via DoorDash.
Every Christmas, Molly Weasley knit a personalized sweater for each of her kids and Harry Potter too! Grab your enchanted knitting needles, if you happen to have a pair, and get ready to create a magical world. Harry Potter Knitting Magic features 25 patterns inspired by the characters in the beloved series.
Now you can knit your own Hogwarts house scarf, Beauxbatons shawls, Delores Umbridge’s pink mink scarf and an adorable baby mobile featuring the house symbols and a sorting hat.
Harry Potter Knitting Magic is available on Amazon for $17.89.
Now teachers can bring the magical world of Harry Potter to children stuck at home due to the coronavirus. J.K. Rowling and her literary agency, The Blair Partnership, recognize the importance of sharing stories and reading aloud during times like this. Rowling announced that she has relaxed copyright permissions allowing students to post videos of themselves reading books from the Harry Potter series to their students to create a virtual classroom setting.
“Delighted to help teachers reach kids at home by relaxing the usual licence required to post videos of themselves reading Harry Potter books,” Rowling posted to Twitter. “Be well, everyone,” she wrote before adding the hashtag #HarryPotterAtHome.
Teachers are not permitted to share the videos on social media, rather they must post to their school’s secure network or closed educational platform. The read aloud videos may be posted throughout this current school year or until Jul. 31, whichever is earlier. After that they should be permanently deleted.
According to Rowling’s website, the open licence for teachers is the first of several initiatives being planned to help bring Harry Potter to children at home, which will be announced soon.
Hurry down to Diagon Alley. It’s time to introduce your kids to the magical world of Hogwarts. A new edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone will be flying onto shelves soon.
On Thursday, Scholastic revealed the new cover of the first installment in the Harry Potter book series set for release on October 20, 2020. The innovative new edition is designed and illustrated by the award-winning design studio MinaLima, best known for establishing the visual graphic style of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.
With brilliant full-color illustrations on nearly every page, this new edition also includes eight interactive special paper craft features. Readers can open the beautifully designed, elaborately folded Hogwarts letter and Diagon Alley shopping list, reveal the magical entryway to Diagon Alley, open a die-cut, fold-out Hogwarts Castle, make a sumptuous feast appear in the Great Hall, and more.
“This new edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is the perfect way to start a new generation of readers on their Hogwarts journey, and at the same time is sure to be a treasured keepsake for fans to add to their collection,” said Ellie Berger, President Scholastic Trade. “The Harry Potter series continues to inspire readers of all ages with its universal themes of friendship, imagination and the triumph of good over evil.”
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was published by Scholastic in the U.S. in September 1998 with a first printing of 50,000 copies. More than 20 years later, the Harry Potter book series has sold more than 500 million copies worldwide.
One would be hard-pressed to go anywhere at this time of year and not see Santa Claus represented. Depending on the age of your child, you will confront the inevitable queries from them or ponder for yourself the question, “Is it okay to teach children to believe in Santa?”
“Barring religious or other beliefs that might preclude the telling of the Santa myth, I am firmly in the let’s believe camp.
I love Santa, and to me, he represents magic and hope and generosity. I remember when my own children were quite young, the seeds of doubt about making my kids’ believers, crept in a little bit as the holidays approached. I asked my oldest and dearest friend, a respected pediatrician, for her thoughts on the subject.
Her unhesitating declaration was that of course she would teach her daughter Isabelle to believe in Santa. She stated without missing a beat that she wanted Isabelle to believe that dreams can come true. Her clarity and message of hope felt right then and still does.
Young children have a tremendous capacity to pretend. Using their imagination is a way to interact with the world, to try it on and get comfortable with it. When my two-year-old granddaughter puts on her pretend goggles to pretend swim in the bathtub each night, when she stirs empty bowls and pretends to feed her stuffed animals, and when she picks up a paper towel roll and starts singing her little heart out pretending it is a microphone, she has entered the world of make-believe. This use of her imagination allows her to exercise her creativity and her problem-solving skills—all while having fun.
While introducing the idea that there is a special guy in a red suit traveling around the world in a sled pulled by reindeer delivering presents is technically “a lie,” it is also another way to engage with children in the imaginary, magical world that they already reside in. Children’s literature is filled with bears, bunnies, monkeys and animals of all sorts that talk, wear clothes and sleep in fully furnished houses, (one of my personal favorites is the one about the duck that types) and most children are read these stories with no disclaimers.
Of course, there are pitfalls to teaching your child to believe in Santa. Besides the challenge of the inevitable day of reckoning when children begin to age out of the story, there is also the stress it can cause some children if there is too much emphasis on being good.
As a nursery school teacher, I witnessed children who became quite anxious as the adults around them sang songs about this all-seeing, all-knowing Santa person and his more modern helper, the Elf on the Shelf. The anxiety that some children feel when taught that they are being watched over at all times by Santa, a hidden elf or whatever, is only exaggerated when they fear they might be receiving only sticks or lumps of coal instead of toys.
I remember one child in particular who had an unusually sunny disposition who became quite agitated, crying daily as the holiday excitement ramped up around him. He frequently mentioned that he was afraid of getting ashes in his stocking because he sometimes forgot the rules. After checking in with his parents—who immediately backed off the “you better watch out routine” and reassured him that he was a good boy and that Santa would bring him a present-he quickly relaxed and returned to his happy-go-lucky self.
I have a distinct memory of explaining to my mother when I was in the third grade that I knew Santa wasn’t real, but that I wanted to believe in him anyway. I wasn’t ready to give up on the vision of a magical jolly gift-giver bringing joy to children everywhere.
She happily went along with this approach and continued to sign her holiday presents to me with a “Love from Santa” card, for the rest of her life.
I am a parent and grandparent with over four decades of experience in early childhood education. I share my passion, wisdom and experience, with parents and the people who care for and about children at Little Folks Big Questions, where we're out to answer the questions parents face in today's world.
“I lost another tooth!” That’s how six-year-old James greeted me. I love that quality that young children have of seeing you and then speaking as if in mid-conversation. It was the perfect greeting for me after just reading the Vox article “The Tooth Fairy Economy Explained” by Lindsay King-Miller.
According to King-Miller’s research, the monetary value of baby teeth has risen over the past decade, only to see a slight fall for the last two years. She really dives in here to look at the origins of the tooth fairy myth and how modern families have adopted the tradition. While largely an American ritual, other cultures mark the loss of baby teeth with their own rites. For example, my grandson Matteo, who lives in Italy, was visited by the “Tooth Mouse” when he was younger.
Since children between the ages of 6 and 10 will lose all twenty of their baby teeth, parents are signing up for a big commitment with that first Tooth Fairy response. Not surprisingly, there are lots of opportunities for error. Vacations, no coins or currency, and just plain forgetting to “sneak in” to exchange the tooth with something of value, once the child is asleep, contribute to the stress of keeping the magic going. One way to give yourself some wiggle room is to say that the fairy may come either tonight or tomorrow night.
As for the “Italian Tooth Mouse,” when my son-in-law forgot to do the swap, he explained to Matteo that their dog Lenny had scared the mouse away. While that was some quick thinking on his part, he had created a scenario where his son then became terrified that their dog was going to eat the mouse. They then worked together to design a no dog zone to keep the mouse safe. Problem solved.
Lindsay King-Miller describes the heightened stakes as parents posing as the tooth fairy leave notes, special coins, and an average of $3.70 under the pillow. She includes some amusing anecdotes about dollar bill origami animals and other attempts to create magical memories.
When my own children were young, I had the idea that leaving a toothbrush along with some “change” would be a nice surprise while at the same time implying that good dental hygiene earned some points with the fairy. And to complicate matters further, I put a two dollar bill there as well. What was I thinking?
After James’ announcement, I asked him if he had put his lost tooth under his pillow and if he had, what he found there the next day. Yes, he had, and he enthusiastically reported that he found three dollars under his pillow (very close to the average amount according to the Global Kelton poll of 1,058 American parents done on behalf of Delta Dental, cited in the Vox article). When I asked if James always got $3, he said, “No, I only got $1 before”. When asked why he thought he got more this time, he only shrugged, smiled and said he didn’t know. Then he skipped away, another one of those delightful things I love about young children…the skipping!
Since James’ father, James Gilroy, the Director of the Little Folks School, where I used to work, was nearby, I was happy to get his version of the recent visit by the tooth fairy.
James, the father, described how he and his wife had begun a tradition of leaving a Sacagawea gold coin when their older daughter Evie, lost her first tooth. It felt magical, and they were good about keeping the gold coins in stock for those special moments. When their son James lost his first tooth, they kept up the gold coin tradition, that is, until the previous night.
Long after their son had gone to sleep, they remembered the tooth waiting for them under the pillow and scrambled around looking for a gold coin to exchange with it. When none turned up, they decided after much debate to go the currency route. Three one dollar bills – the only cash they had on hand – would have to do. And by all accounts, especially his son’s excitement, it did.
As parents, we face a myriad of decisions, all day every day. The choices that we make concerning fanciful characters like Santa, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy can bring their own complications to the mix. As I explained in my blog, Is It Okay To Teach Your Child To Believe In Santa? there are many wonderful reasons to make believers out of your kids. Young children already reside in an imaginary, magical world and introducing generous, and loving characters serves to enhance that. Clearly, many parents enjoy marking the momentous occasion, or they wouldn’t go to such lengths to keep the myth alive. Not to mention that when the first tooth is lost, the hope of a morning surprise may help to temper what might be a scary event for the child.
Having learned the hard way myself, I advise parents that when it comes to remuneration in exchange for a lost tooth, keep the story and the prize simple!
I am a parent and grandparent with over four decades of experience in early childhood education. I share my passion, wisdom and experience, with parents and the people who care for and about children at Little Folks Big Questions, where we're out to answer the questions parents face in today's world.
Discovering the joys of Harry Potter is a rite of passage for kids today. Since J.K. Rowling released Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone more than 20 years ago, kids have been devouring the books, watching the movies, and—at least for superfans—playing games and apps and visiting websites devoted to the young wizard. One of the delights of discovering Harry Potter is that you see him grow up. But along with that, the subject matter of the books and movies gets scarier, the villains get viler, and beloved characters die.
If your family is just getting into this magical world, here’s a quick age guide for enjoying Harry Potter with your kids. Keep in mind that all kids are different, so assess your child’s ability to handle fright and peril before you see the movies or read the books.
7–9: A great age to begin (for younger kids, consider reading aloud together).
Common Sense Media is an independent nonprofit organization offering unbiased ratings and trusted advice to help families make smart media and technology choices. Check out our ratings and recommendations at www.commonsense.org.
