Judy Galbraith was a classroom teacher who struggled to find kid-friendly information that addressed the real-life issues her students faced. She decided it was time that young people had access to books that will help young people develop socially, emotionally, and intellectually. And that's how "free spirit" was founded.
More than two decades later,
Free Spirit Publishing continues to be the leader in Self-Help for Kids
® and Self-Help for Teens
®, building its list from just a few titles to over 285 award-winning books and products, with new titles being published every year. Free Spirit has won several accolades and continue to offer a variety of material that are helping children and young people.
I also love the fact that Free Spirit Publishing is committed to the three Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
I had the opportunity to review a wonderful collection of books for my toddler. The Toddler Tools Series Kit contains 8 books ( in April 2011, it will be 9 with a new addition " Meal Time").
These books can be used right from birth to toddler years. They are board books, 7" x 7" with beautiful color illustrations.
- From the dynamic, award-winning author/illustrator team of the Best Behavior™ Series
- Ideal for both home and childcare settings
- Tips for parents and caregivers included at the end of each book
- Books engage toddlers in facing daily routines and transitions with confidence
- Contemporary illustrations complement gentle, reassuring text
About the author and illustrator:
Elizabeth Verdick is the author of more than 30 highly acclaimed books for children and teenagers, including books in the Toddler Tools™ board book series, the Best Behavior™ series for young children, and the Laugh & Learn™ series for preteens.
Marieka Heinlen is a freelance illustrator and designer, Marieka focuses her work on books and other materials for children, teens, parents, and teachers.
I have been reading them to my busy toddler for many days now and this is one book where he actually understands what he is read to. He also makes references to what we read during the day. Putting into practice the things he learned are a very good sign that the book and the content are being digested, nourishing the brain and being exhibited in behavior. Excellent writing and illustrations draws the child and keeps the attention to the few but powerful words being learned.
I would aptly call it " The Toddler Power Kit" ! Teaching toddlers who are gaining independence and want things their own way, is quite challenging and testing. These books are a great tool to teach and if my toddler in his terrible 2's can follow what he reads, this is power!
I must admit that our bed time routine is a little mixed up! This book neatly shows the transition from evening activities to bedtime . Cheerful, soft illustrations and reassuring text set a tone that helps toddlers feel good about the daily routine of settling down to sleep. In the morning, the children will yawn, stretch, and be a little bit bigger, a little bit stronger, and a little bit smarter—all because of a good night’s sleep.
It is cute when my son says" calm down mommy!" when he sees me being angry or mad at something. This book is helping him to know that it is ok to express your emotions and how you can be on your way to feeling better.It is one of his favorite books!
Clean up time is also a great read that can be practiced.Toddlers will look forward to clean-up time with this simple rhyming book that encourages them to chant along as they tidy up. We are slowly catching up to understanding how clean-up time can help make room for more fun!
"Listen" is probably one of the most frequently used words by moms. Toddlers especially tend to understand better when we show them how it is done. This book shows "how to listen".Really how does one listen? " Criss-Cross, Applesauce, hands on knees!" That's the posture for listening! Now my son has a better understanding of "listening" as he knows that the posture and putting away things can help him focus more.
"Manners Time" can be introduced way early in early childhood.Since my son knows his "please" and "thank you", he acknowledges very confidentially when I read this book to him. At the end of every page, he says "correct!". The content of this book can easily make connections with a toddler's brain and that's when the "correct" comes out.
Nap time is still a struggle.. I get a outright "NO" when it comes to nap time.This calming, encouraging book helps young children quiet down so they can get the rest they need. Eyes are closed, lights are dimmed…and (yawn, s-t-r-e-t-c-h) before little ones know it, it’s time to wake up. Cozy illustrations enhance the text.
How toddlers love not-to- share! Their most favorite word being "Mine". I read this book to my son and he liked it and understood that it is a happy feeling to share. Finally, he said "My book!"..lol. I am sure it will improve with age, but it is important to teach them to take turns and share.He also learned that it is best to approach a grown-up when it is difficult to share.
Everyday, my son has tears when I drop him at the daycare. Clinging to me and hard to say goodbye are some things I deal with everyday with my son. This book is really helping him know that it is not a forever goodbye and reassuring that he will be seeing mommy very soon.This gentle book helps ease the transition with simple rituals: hugs and kisses, a big wave, a deep breath, and the confidence to seek comfort with the new caregiver or other children.
Free Spirit has these 8 books on their website for $60.84 ( Mealtime book is included). You can also buy these books separately for $7.95 each.
Thanks to Free Spirit Publishing, one lucky reader will have the opportunity to win a set of 8 books valued at $60 !
- Giveaway for this set of books will go live on Jan 18, 2011. You can enter from Jan 18-22, 2011
(Disclaimer: Thanks to Free Spirit publishing for sending me the featured products for review purpose. I was not monetarily compensated for this review. Please note that the review was not influenced by the Sponsor in any way.All opinions expressed here are only my own.)
