Since many of us are celebrating Mother's Day this Sunday, I decided it would be a good time to share some of my favorite "mom centered" books.
Many of you have probably heard of the popular story, The Kissing Hand, by Audrey Penn. It's the unforgettable story of a how one mother raccoon helps her cub to handle separation anxiety. Chester is nervous about leaving Mrs. Raccoon to go to school, and she finds a beautiful way to help him understand that she is always with him, even if she is not always right beside him. All parents with toddlers and preschoolers should read this touching story.
There is also a wonderful sequel to this book, called A Pocket Full of Kisses, also by Audrey Penn. It seems that sequels often aren't of the same quality as the originals, but that's certainly not the case here.
This time, Chester is adjusting to having a new sibling, and starts to experience feelings of anxiety and jealousy. When his mother shows his brother the "Kissing Hand," Chester thinks that his mother's love for his brother somehow diminishes her love for him. She explains that love has no limits, and that her love for him is a constant that will never fade. Children between the ages of 4 and 7, who recently had to adjust to a new member of the family, will especially enjoy this picture book.
If you recently had another child, or are dealing with issues of sibling rivalry, you might also enjoy On Mother's Lap, by Ann Herbert Scott and Koala Lou, by Mem Fox (to hear Mem Fox read aloud this book, click here). For more information about Koala Lou, and for another related book recommendation, you might want to read a previous post.
While Mother's Day is a special day for mothers to spend time with their own kids, it's also a day to think about our own mothers and grandmothers, and the generations of moms who came before us. There is one very unique picture book, which I feel is most appropriate for children between the ages of 7 and 10, which has so many themes running through it, that it will spark many different conversations about the meaning of family in general.
Patricia Polacco has once again shared a glimpse of her own personal life in yet another "not to be missed" picture book called The Keeping Quilt. This book is not about just any quilt. It's about the meaning of home, family, culture, and tradition. It could even be used to start a conversation about the challenges of immigration, since this particular family came to America from Russia. Families of Jewish heritage will find this book especially meaningful,
but this book really will speak to people of all cultures and religions.
The black, white, and gray sketches are so beautifully accompanied by splashes of vibrant color, which highlight just how special this family quilt is. This book will enable you to speak to your child about your own family traditions, and how every family is unique and special. I hope you enjoy it, and that you find a way to preserve the family traditions that have been passed on to you, as well.
Whatever your plans may be for this Mother's Day, I hope you take time out to read some really great books like these. If your child is older, it might be a good time to go back and reread some of his or her favorite picture books. Or, you may just want to read and discuss one of his or her current favorites. You're never too old to share a love of books with your child! And you know what, your own mother might want to read along as well.
As a side note, I realize that I haven't posted any recipes lately. I apologize, but there's so much to cover in such little time. I will try to have one for you by the end of the week.
That gets me thinking, though, that it's not the expensive gifts that matter most to moms. It's time spent talking and sharing a meal. It's a simple hug or smile. It's a homemade present or card. You don't have to spend money to give the greatest gift of all: your time and attention.
Do you have any special plans for Mother's Day this year?
