One thing that always seems to get kids' attention is when things just aren't "right." Kids have an uncanny ability to detect when things are "off," like:
• Having breakfast for dinner.
• Using green ketchup. (Remember when that was a "thing?")
• Nighttime traveling.
• Daytime thunder and lightning storms.
• Mom driving Dad's car.
• Buying lunch instead of packing.
• Substitute teachers.
You get the idea. So there's nothing that will get kids' eyes open and mind sharp like reading wintertime books during the hot summer months.
Kick things up a bit if you'd like—crank the air conditioning up a bit, pull out some winter scarves and hats, and cozy up with a big blanket as you read these fun picks for kids:
For grades K-2:
Grandmother Winter by Phyllis Root and illustrated by Beth Krommes
When Winter Comes by Nancy Van Laan and illustrated by Susan Gaber
For grades 3-5:
The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard Atwater and Florence Atwater and illustrated by Robert Lawson
For grades 6-8:
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Brian's Winter by Gary Paulsen
And to really up the fun factor, pair the reading of Mr. Popper's Penguins and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe with the movies!
What other wintertime titles are good picks for hot, summer months? Share your thoughts with us on the Scholastic Parents Facebook page, or find Amy on Twitter, @teachmama, and let's continue the conversation!
