The other day I tried to explain to my daughter what onomatopoeia is. You know, it's when a word is created to imitate a sound. (Remember the old expert, Batman? BAM, KAPOW, ZOWIE). Here are three ways you can use onomatopoeia to build literacy:
1. Ham it up! Like rhyming words and animal noises, words like 'PLOP' and 'SNAP' may be exaggerated to highlight the smaller sounds within them.
2. Try to think of examples of onomatopoeia together.
3. Make up your own words together (ie. I was jumping on the bed and PLOOFED onto the pillow).
The book that caused us to begin talking about onomatopoeia is Listen to My Trumpet by Mo Willems. Just see how many ways the author can mimic the sound of a trumpet.

If you have a new reader at home you know how difficult it can be to find books for her. Finding a level that is challenging but not overwhelming can be a daunting task. Add to this the fact that a Level One in one publisher's series can vary wildly than a Level One in a different series. School systems use different systems for defining a reading level as well-- the Fountas & Pinnell or the Lexile level are examples. Luckily, help is here! We have booklists for children who are learning to read that will take your reader step by step. The booklists include Starting to Read, First Easy Reader, and Advanced Easy Reader. And your local youth services librarian will love the challenge of helping your child find the best next book for him-- at the right level and on the topic or storyline that will inspire him to take the plunge. Believe me, this is the kind of challenge we librarians live for!

Feeling confused about choosing apps for your children? Common Sense Media's Essential Apps for Kids and Teens can help! This comprehensive guide allows you to search by device and age-group, including preschool children.

At the start of this new year, it's fun to take a moment to appreciate our Favorite Picture Books of 2012. These books were chosen by librarians who create our Birth to Six book lists. How many of these delightful books have you enjoyed with a child?