Chapter Book: The Little Prince

I like to take the time to read to the children a chapter book. I think it helps them in their desire to read and bring the characters to life. I don't ask questions of the academic nature during this time. We just read and let our selves join the characters in their world and let our imaginations soar. This is considered a sacred time in our house. If you wanted to punish the kids you would simply say "no story tonight then" and the children would immediately straighten up! Beyond that, the American Library Association has twelve wonderful reasons to read aloud to kids and they are as follows:

• Children's self esteem grows as they experience the security of having a parent or other caring person read aloud with them.
• Children experience increased communication with parents and other family members.
• Children are introduced to new concepts such as colors, shapes, numbers, and alphabet, in a fun, age appropriate way.
• Children build listening skills, vocabulary, memory, and language skills.
• Children develop imagination and creativity.
• Children learn information about the world around them.
• Children develop individual interests in special subjects like dinosaurs, cats, or cars.
• Children learn positive behavior patterns and social values.
• Children learn positive attitudes towards themselves and others.
• CHILDREN LEARN THE JOY OF READING!

From time to time, I will ask the children to illustrate their favorite parts of the story. I won't however, ask questions about comprehension, vocabulary or any other questions that might diminish the love of just reading for the sake of reading. 

   So far the children are loving The Little Prince. They love the concept of a little boy being so wise to a grown up. And they roared with laughter at the idea of a boa constrictor eating an elephant. This book would make a great story to do a lapbook for but, I must restrain my self from that unless it becomes the idea of the children to do it.