In an era of the Wii, the Netbook, and Blu-Ray, I’m already noticing my son’s preference towards these types of entertainment. And several weeks ago, I heard about a computer program designed for children ages 1-6. My first thought was, what could a one year old possibly get out of something like this? This is the type of content parents have to contend with on a daily basis. I have to make a conscious effort not to rely on these types of entertainment and get my children out of the house every day. And as my son gets older, it’s going to be that much more difficult.
Every day, my son can count on our reading time. Twenty minutes a day is recommended, but more is even better. Right now, we’re reading The Looking Book, by P.K. Hallinan. If you have a child who’d rather stay inside watching television or playing video games, I recommend this book. Here is a synopsis from the site:
In The Looking Book, renowned children’s author P.K. Hallinan tells the story of Kenny and Mikey, who are given pairs of magical “lookers” by Mom. Outside, the lookers help the boys discover an exciting world beyond their television, helping them see things outside they never noticed before: bright grass, crawly bugs, beautiful leaves. Soon, Kenny and Mikey realize they don’t need their special lookers at all, and can’t wait to play outside the next day with fresh eyes.
Children’s books have the ability to illustrate concepts in ways that are meaningful to children. My son loves to go outside, but that is because I don’t like to keep him in the house for too many hours in a day. But some children (children that I know) would rather stay inside playing video games. This is where a story might be the impetus to get them outside…willingly. I once heard that the greatest discoveries can be found in your own backyard. P.K. Hallinan illustrates that beautifully as Kenny and Mikey discover trees and bees…small things and tall things…weeds and flowers with seeds. Both of the children’s excitement is evident throughout the story as they discovery new and exciting things.
One of the things I found interesting about the book, is how the illustrator purposefully made the inside spaces dull browns and whites…in contrast to the colorful outside world. At the end of the book, both boys can’t wait to go outside again for new discoveries.
The Looking Book retails for $16.99 and is available on Amazon.
I did not receive compensation for this post. A copy of the book was provided to facilitate this review.
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