From the Long Island Pre-K Initiative
Recommended Parenting Books:
Childhood Unbound: Saving Our Kids’ Best Selve- Confident Parenting in a World of Change by Ron Taffel, Ph.D.
The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. and Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D.
No-Drama Discipline by Daniel J. Siegel, M.D. and Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D.
Yardsticks: Children in the Classroom Ages 4-14 by Chip Woods
Recommended Children’s Books:
Fun Books:
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus and all the Pigeon books by Mo Willems
All Pete the Cat books by Kimberly and James Dean
Recommended Toys:
Toys recommended for overall child development include:
Magna Tiles, Wedgits, Gears, Gears!, Tree or Nature Blocks, Traffic Signs and Hardwood Unit Blocks
What about war toys and weaponry?
To the child, these are symbols of power and strength. Some war toys lead to aggression, violence, or hostile play. Yet, eliminating them entirely may make them more desirable. Attempt to avoid making aggression glamorous and set limits on what is purchased.
Toys which help develop fine motor skills are a great way to help your child meet this developmental need:
Wind up toys, toys to spin, squeeze toys (in and out of the bathtub), beads and lacing, Magna Doodle, magnetic mazes, pegs and pegboards are all great developers of fine motor skills. Tip: use crayons and colored pencils instead of markers, as crayons help develop strength in the fingers; markers require less strength.