Books Guide Even the Tiniest of Readers

During my teaching experiences in second grade, I found myself transformed into an advocate for children's literature. I saw, first hand, the excitement children can get when transported to new worlds with wild characters leading even wilder adventures.

Look two years into the future.

Now, I am a stay-at-home mom, and although I am just as much an advocate for children's literature, I have gained a new perspective about how books can guide even the tiniest of readers.

I have been completely blown away at what George has already learned from our reading times. He can identify objects in the real world from what he has seen in books, and he is even putting two and two together with more abstract concepts.

Below are a few examples to help relate what I mean.

•  When he sees things that he thinks are gross like bugs and dirty diapers he says, "That's yucky!" This is from his book, Yummy, Yucky.

• After I asked where a toy was, George replied with, "The toy is near." He used this word correctly, and it is from his book, Curious George Goes Fishing.

• When on his bike, he said, "Look, ride forward." He proceeded to do this followed by a, "Look, ride backward." This is from his book, Curious George Rides.

• After swimming in the pool, George said, "Look, wet!" This word is from his book, Curious George Goes Fishing. 

Pre-George, I had so few experiences with babies and toddlers. I had no idea just how much they could apply text and pictures to their own worlds. It has and continues to be such an exciting process to experience. 

How have your children used books to make their own worlds make sense?