Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!!

In honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday, we did the only logical thing: pull out all of CJ's Dr. Seuss books and read them all.

I took advantage of one of those trial offers to a kid's site and got six Dr. Seuss books and this bag for only $0.99. You sure can't beat that deal.

He took a moment to hold up two of his favorite books from the set.

Mr. Brown Can Moo is his absolute favorite book of all times. He loves all the crazy noises that we make when we read it.

He took a break from reading to play with the iPad cover, only to realize that I had the iPad in my hand taking pictures of him.

Time to clean up before nap time.

What special activities do you have planned for Dr. Seuss' birthday? Be sure to let me know in the comments.

10 Tips for Reading Aloud to Children

Based on "Thirty DO's to Remember When Reading Aloud" by Jim Trelease

First of all let me just say, I LOVE THIS BOOK. It has the best tips on how to begin reading aloud and which books to choose, suggests ways to create reader-friendly home, classroom, and library environments. And my favorite, it gives tips on luring children away from the television.

1. Remember: The art of listening is acquired.

2. Set aside at least one traditional time each day for a story.

3. Read slowly enough for the child to build mental pictures.

4. Use plenty of expression, change your tone of voice, and adjust your pace to fit the story.

5. Encourage involvement; invite the child to turn pages for you.

6. Ask "What do you think is going to happen next?"

7. During repeat readings of a predictable book, stop at key phrases and allow the child to provide the words.

8. If you can't finish a chapter, find a suspenseful spot at which to stop.

9. Vary the length and topics of your readings, fiction and nonfiction.

10. Reading aloud comes naturally to very few people. To do it with ease takes practice. It's worth it!

What tips do you have for reading aloud to children? Be sure to let me know in the comments.