Kids-List - KidsList Blog

Saturday, August 25, 2012 by Shelley Miles
Literacy, Outings, September Activities, Coloring, Library skills, September Holidays

SEPTEMBER 1 - Read a book day, Chicken Boy Day, Emma M. Nutt Day, Mary had a Little Lamb first published in 1830

Every time you share a book with your child, you have an opportunity to instill a love of reading that will last a lifetime. Libraries are a great place to start exposing your kids to the vast array of literature available. Here are some tips to make the experience enjoyable:

Plan to visit at a time when you are both fed and well-rested.

Choose comfortable clothes that allow you to get down on the floor and read a book together.

Ask if your child can get his or her own library card. The American Library Association suggests that you register children for their own cards as soon as they demonstrate interest.

Make it a special event by telling grandparents, friends and others.

Be certain to explain that the books you bring home are on loan and must be returned so that some other children can share in reading them. Also stress the importance of treating the books with care.

Don't view the staff as caregivers. Remember, the time you spend with your kids is as important as the enjoyment they will receive from the books they read

Invite another mom to visit the library with you, and while one of you browses the adult section the other can stay with the kids.

If your library is computerized, ask for a printout of the books you’ve checked out. Place the list on the refrigerator door so on return day you'll know which books to take back.

Bring a large, sturdy book bag that is comfortable to carry when full. Find a public library near you. Search Kids-List for: Community Resources

In 1830, the very first copy of "Mary had a Little Lamb" was published. Print out and color this coloring page while reciting the poem.

Mary had a little lamb
It's fleece was white as snow.
And everywhere that Mary went
The lamb was sure to go.

It followed her to school one day
That was against the rule.
It made the children laugh and play
To see a lamb at school.

Emma M Nutt became the world's first female telephone operator on September 1, 1878. Up until she was hired, this had been a strictly male job. In her honor, why not play a game of "telephone"?

Have one child whisper a message to the child next to them. Keep passing the message along to the next person. At the very end, see how close the message that reaches the end is to the first message. Be prepared for lots of laughing.

Did you know that "Chicken Boy" has been referred to as Los Angeles' statue of liberty? Learn the true story of Chicken Boy here
Mmmm - pass the chicken, please.