A New Family Tradition

I get so excited when the holidays roll around. I can't wait to start blasting Christmas music, decorating our house, baking etc etc. Our daughter is just starting to understand the concept of Santa and of course PRESENTS. Let me tell you, it's really easy to get caught up in the gift frenzy with the littles. So when I thought about starting the Advent Calendar I wanted to use it as an opportunity to instill some values. I have seen the idea of a book Advent before and thought - what a great way to teach our daughter about the REAL spirit of the holidays....which is about kindness, generosity, love, and family. 

The idea is to wrap twenty five books and open one a night with the calendar. Here is our Advent Calendar. It is nothing fancy and totally reminds me of the one we had growing up. If you go on Pinterest you can find some spectacular DIY ones.

And then, get wrapping!!

I haven't decided if we will wrap them every year. I might keep them in a basket by the advent calendar next year. But since it's our first year - I wanted to make it fun. (it's a lot of wrapping folks, but goes quickly) 

I kept our list of books pretty secular. I just tried to find a good variety that our 3 year old daughter would understand and carry a message of kindness, giving, hope and love. I am so excited to read these to her. Hope you enjoy my list. Happy Holidays!

The Wild Christmas Reindeer by Jan Brett
Little Teeka thought she had to be firm with the reindeer to get them ready for Santa's important flight, but when her bossy yelling only got their antlers tangled up, she knew she had to try something different. 

Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree by Robert Barry

Mr. Willowby's Christmas tree is too tall, so he trims off the top and gives the top to the upstairs maid for her tree, and she finds it too tall, so she cuts off the top, which the gardener uses for his tree, but it is too tall . It's the story of how one tree becomes the perfect tree for many people, and animals, as it keeps getting clipped shorter and shorter and passed down to someone else.

The Little Fir Tree by Margaret Wise Brown

Once there was a tree that stood in a field away from the other trees. It longed to be part of the forest—or part of anything at all. After many lonely years, its dream came true. And the little fir tree's life changed forever!

The Christmas Wish by Lori Evert

Long ago, a brave little girl named Anja wanted to be one of Santa's elves. So she leaves a note for her family and helps her elderly neighbor prepare for the holiday, then she straps on her skis, and heads out into the snowy landscape. From a red bird to a polar bear to a reindeer, a menagerie of winter animals help Anja make her way to Santa. 

The Biggest Snowman Ever by Steven Kroll

The mayor of Mouseville has announced a contest for the biggest snowman. Clayton and Desmond race against the clock to compete for the prize, but soon realize that they can only build so high! With a lot of snow and a super-strong friendship, the two mice discover that by working together they can build a monumental snowman.

Night Tree by Eve Bunting

By moonlight in the quiet forest, a young boy and his family decorate their favorite tree with popcorn, apples, tangerines, and sunflower-seed balls as a gift for the animals of the woods. This beautifully illustrated story of a family’s unusual tradition brings to life the true spirit of Christmas.

Finding Christmas by Helen Ward

A young girl wanders through the snow on Christmas Eve, looking for a gift for a very special someone (her baby brother, we later learn). She happens upon a glowing toy shop, but before she can select a present, a mysterious old gentleman--Santa himself--scoops up everything in the store. All seems to be lost until Santa sends the perfect gift spinning from his sleigh, helping the girl find Christmas after all.

Winter's Gift by Jane Monroe Donovan

It may be Christmastime but on a small, forlorn farm the holiday season is best forgotten, along with painful memories of loved ones lost. Mother Nature has other plans, however, and a chance snowstorm brings together two unlikely hearts, one human and one beast, yet both yearning for comfort, companionship, and that most elusive gift of all, hope. 

A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree by Colleen Moore

An overgrown pine is always being passed by for Christmas. The birds, deer and squirrel help make their special friend's wish come true.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas!  by Dr Seuss

The Grinch, whose heart is two sizes too small, hates Who-ville's holiday celebrations, and plans to steal all the presents to prevent Christmas from coming. To his amazement, Christmas comes anyway, and the Grinch discovers the true meaning of the holiday.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Rick Bunsen

This beloved story stars Rudolph, a young reindeer with a glowing nose. When the other reindeer make fun of him, Rudolph runs away. But with the help of a misfit elf named Herbie and a prospector named Yukon Cornelius, Rudolph learns that you shouldn't run away from your problems. 

The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving by Jan Berenstain

In The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving Brother and Sister Bear can’t wait for Christmas and all the presents they’ll open. But during the Christmas Eve pageant, something special happens! The Bear cubs learn a very valuable lesson about the joy of giving to others.

The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

In a shabby New York flat, Della sobs as she counts the few coins she has saved to buy a Christmas present for her husband, Jim. A gift worthy of her devotion will require a great sacrifice: selling her long, beautiful hair. Jim, meanwhile, has made a sacrifice for Della that is no less difficult. As they exchange gifts on Christmas Eve, the discovery of what each has done fills them with despair, until they realize that the true gifts of Christmas can be found more readily in their humble apartment than in any fine store.

An Orange for Frankie by Patricia Polacco

This is a holiday story close to Patricia Polacco's heart. Frankie was her grandmother's youngest brother, and every year she and her family remember this tale of a little boy who learned--and taught--an important lesson about giving, one Christmas long ago.

A Christmas Dress For Ellen by Thomas Monson

On Christmas Eve, 1927, in the prairie town of Hillsspring, Alberta, Canada, a young mother, Mary Jeppson, was getting her five small children ready for bed. Her heart was full of sorrow, for there was nothing to fill the stockings, and there would be only a little much for breakfast. But George Schow, their mailman, had a surprise in store. Could he brave the coming storm and bitter cold to deliver a Christmas miracle? 

The Longest Christmas List Ever by Gregg Spiridellis

Little Trevor is determined to not leave ANYTHING off his Christmas list so he carries it with him everywhere he goes...for an entire year. This is a story of how greed can get away of what really matters at Christmas.

The Story of Holly and Ivy by Rumor Godden

Ivy, Holly, and Mr. and Mrs. Jones all have one Christmas wish. Ivy, an orphan, wishes for a real home and sets out in search of the grandmother she's sure she can find. Holly, a doll, wishes for a child to bring her to life. And the Joneses wish more than anything for a son or daughter to share their holiday. Can all three wishes come true?

And Then Comes Christmas by Tom Brenner

From icicles clinging to roofs and houses strung with colorful lights to visiting Santa and hunting for the perfect tree, this classic-in-the-making celebrates all of the holiday’s excitement. Evoking both winter’s changes to the world outside and well-loved traditions taking place within, here is a story to encourage readers to curl up with their loved ones and bask in the magic of the Christmas season.

The Last Christmas Tree by Stephen Krensky

Among the grand balsam firs and pines at the Christmas tree lot is a little hunched tree that is missing several branches. Still, no tree is more filled with the spirit of Christmas. As the weeks go by, many others are selected but still the little tree keeps up its hope of finding the perfect family. On Christmas Eve, now the last tree in the lot, a special visitor (Ho, Ho, Ho!) might just give the little tree what it wants most of all.

Merry Christmas Big Hungry Bear by Don and Audrey Wood

It's Christmas and the little Mouse is looking forward to opening the presents around the tree. But what about the Big Hungry Bear who lives on top of the hill? The little Mouse's brave and generous spirit reminds us that Christmas is for everyone, not just ourselves. 

Shall I Knit You a Hat?: A Christmas Yarn by Kate Klise

To protect his ears from the cold and snow, Mother Rabbit knits Little Rabbit a hat. He loves his hat so much, he and his mother make them for all of his friends.

Melrose and Croc A Christmas to Remember by Emma Clark

It's Christmas Eve, and both Melrose and Croc are all alone in the city.  They dream of a wonderful Christmas but feel sad when there is no one to share it with.  It might have been their loneliest holiday ever, if not for a collision with fate.  Could this be the beginning of a magical Christmas, and the start of a cherished friendship?

The Smallest Gift of Christmas by Peter H Reynolds

Roland can’t wait for Christmas Day, and when the morning finally arrives he races downstairs to see what is waiting for him. What he sees stops him in his tracks. Could that tiny present really be what he had waited all year for? It has to be the smallest gift he had ever seen! So Roland wishes for something bigger . . . and bigger . . . and bigger. 

Splendiferous Christmas (Fancy Nancy) by Jane O'Connor

Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles—and who could forget the tree? After all, there is no such thing as too much tinsel. Ooh la la! This year, Nancy is especially excited about decorating the Christmas tree. She bought a brand-new sparkly tree topper with her own money and has been waiting for Christmas to come. But when things don't turn out the way Nancy planned, will Christmas still be splendiferous?

The Mitten Tree by Candace Christensen

One snowy day an elderly woman, Sarah, watches children gathering at the bus stop. While they never seem to notice her, she notices them, especially one little boy who has no mittens. That night, Sarah knits the boy a pair of cozy mittens and places them on the blue spruce tree for him to discover. It soon becomes a game, with the children looking for new mittens on the mysterious tree every morning, and Sarah joyfully knitting new ones each night. 

Book Review: I am Jazz

Authors: Jessica Herthel and Jazz Jennings
Illustrator: Shelagh McNicholas
Interest Level: Ages 5 and Up

From the Book Jacket: From the time she was two years old, Jazz knew that she had a girl's brain in a boy's body. She loved pink, and dressing up as a mermaid and didn't feel like herself in boy's clothing. This confused her family, until they took her to a doctor who diagnosed Jazz as transgender and explained that she was born this way. Jazz's story is based on her real-life experience and she tells it in a simple, clear way that will be appreciated by picture book readers, their parents, and teachers.  

Why It's On My Bookshelf: So happy to see Jazz's book published. I have seen her interviews with Barbara Walters and Oprah. She is so inspiring. I think a lot of kids who have gone through this probably wished they had a book like this growing up. The book does such a great job helping kids understand what it means to be transgender. She also shares the challenges she faced with teachers and kids. But she overcomes it because she stays true to her IDENTITY. Such a great resource. Thank you, Jazz, for helping kids!

Learn more about Jazz here:
www.transkidspurplerainbow.org

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Book Review: Lend a Hand - Poems About Giving

Author: John Frank
Illustrator: London Ladd
Interest Level: Ages 6 and Up

From the Book Jacket: From sharing your sandwich to volunteering to help build a home, from planting a tree to offering your seat to an elderly person on a bus, simple acts of kindness are the first steps to changing the world. This collection of tender and empowering original poems celebrates the joys of bridging the invisible boundaries among people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Young readers will feel inspired to lend a hand to others and practice kindness and giving everyday. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: With Thanksgiving upon us I like to start looking for books with a message of gratitude to share with students. This year I found a really special book of poems about generosity - Lend a Hand: Poems About Giving. Each poem is so touching. It's all about acts of service done from the heart with kindness. Children will have a huge takeaway from all the beautiful inspiring poetry. I'd love to seem them write poems of kind deeds they have done or seen. Or be inspired to act. I was looking at all of the books I have reviewed on kindness - this is surely at the top. This can be shared any time of the year but with the holidays nearing I think this is so appropriate. Love the below poem called Sandwich. (fyi they are all this awesome)

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Book Review: The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade

Author: Justin Roberts
Illustrator: Christian Robinson
Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up

From the Book Jacket: Hardly anyone noticed young Sally McCabe. She was the smallest girl in the smallest grade. But Sally notices everything - from the twenty-seven keys on the janitor's ring to the bullying happening on the playground. One day, Sally has had enough and decides to make herself heard. And when she takes a chance and stands up to the bullies, she finds that one small girl can make a big difference. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I've been waiting for a book like this. It only takes one person, doesn't matter who they are, to make a really big difference. An awesome difference. When we talk to kids about being bystanders it's so important to share it's really about leadership. Sally is a great example of bravery, courage, and leadership. A bystander who refuses to keep quiet. I notice bystanders are often silent about bullying not because of fear of retaliation but they've become desensitized to what they are seeing. So when unkind acts happen - it becomes normalized. Lets help stop that cycle. 

This book is going to be in HEAVY rotation in my bully prevention lessons. GET A COPY!

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Book Review: Forget Me Not

Author: Nancy Van Laan
Illustrator: Stephanie Graegin
Interest Level: Ages 5 and Up

From the Book Jacket: Julia remembers when Grandma was still her old sweet self - when she still made fried chicken and biscuits the times Julia visited, and her eyes twinkled like candles on a cake. But ever so slowly, Grandma has been getting more forgetful. Soon, she can't even remember Julia's name, and her family sees that Grandma can no longer take care of herself. How Julia and her parents cope with these difficult changes makes for a gentle and reassuring story about a young child's unconditional love for a cherished grandparent.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This book is a wonderful validation for those who are experiencing the loss of a grandparent due to Alzheimers. When I say loss - I don't mean death. The grandparent is physically there but not able to recall the past or their loved ones. This is hard on everyone but especially so on children because it is confusing. Forget Me Not gently explains Alzheimers while empowering the child that they can continue to still love their grandparent. Such a helpful resource for families. 

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Book Review: Sam's Pet Temper

Author: Sangeeta Bhardra
Illustrator: Marion Arbona
Interest Level: Ages 3 and Up
Free Activity Page Click HERE

From the Book Jacket: Sam has a new pet. It's a TEMPER, and he found it on the playground. At first, the Temper is great company. But before long, it becomes hard to handle, and Sam starts to wish it would leave him alone. One dreadful day, the Temper takes things TOO FAR, and Sam knows he has to do something. He tries one thing after another, but the Temper won't back down. Will Sam find a way to tame his Temper?

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This is a great book for kids who are struggling with emotional regulation. Especially those kids who are really trying and frustrated with their anger because they feel like they can't control it. I liked all of the examples of how the anger pops up in his life at home and school and one day it goes too far. Sam is sent home from school. At the end of the story Sam is able to handle his anger and stop the misbehavior cycle. He tells the Temper he is stronger and does breathing. This is an awesome resource for helping kids manage their anger. 

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Book Review: Hana Hashimoto, Sixth Violin

Author: Chieri Uegaki 
Illustrator: Qin Leng
Interest Level: Ages 5 and Up

From the Book Jacket: When Hana announces that she'll be playing violin in the school talent show, her brothers laugh so hard they nearly fall out of a tree. But Hana doesn't let that stop her - she practices and practices, inspired by memories of the time she spent in Japan with her ojiichan, a professional violinist. But when the day of the performance arrives, will she be able to overcome a sudden case of nerves? From the author of the bestselling Suki's Kimono comes a celebration of music, individuality and the very special bond between a child and her grandparent. 



Why It's On My Bookshelf: I love finding these stories. It's awesome to discover your talent. But it can be so defeating when you are mocked for that gift. Hana does not give up or give in to quitting. She continues to pursue her passion. I try and tell kids when we don't follow our hearts desires then how can we fulfill our purpose? That's our jobs as humans. To fill ourselves up with the things we love to do. What an inspiring read for children and adults. 

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Book Review: Moody Cow Meditates

Author/Illustrator: Kerry Lee MacLean
Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up

From the Book Jacket: It all started one stupid, rotten day when everything went wrong…

Peter the cow is having a BAD day. After missing the bus and wiping out on his bike he loses his temper and gets in trouble. To make matters worse all the other kids are teasing him, calling him Moody Cow. Peter’s day just seems to get worse until his grandfather comes over and teaches him how to settle his mind and let go of his frustration through a simple and fun exercise. This vibrant and funny children’s book is a playful way to introduce children to the power of meditation. With full color illustrations by the author, Moody Cow Meditates is a wonderful book for parents and children to share together.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: At the beginning of the school year I attended a district counselor meeting to share what successful resources we have been using. A few counselors gave praise to the book Moody Cow Meditates and how the use of Mind Jars in their schools was impactful with kids. I kept thinking - how can I not have this book yet?? 

I bought it after the meeting and can't wait to put it to use. This is a great book to teach kids calming skills through the use of a Mind Jar. Moody Cow is lacking the tools on how to deal with anger and frustration. He also says 'okay, maybe I overreacted.' I was really glad this concept was introduced because we have a lot of kids that treat small deals like huge ones. Moody Cow also says he does things on purpose. What a great way to open up the discussion about making good choices. Can't wait to make Mind Jars with our students!

I also love this video on Mindfulness. If you don't have time to make a Mind Jar....just use a glitter ball. Love!



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Book Review: Emily's Blue Period

Author: Cathleen Daly
Illustrator: Lisa Brown
Interest Level: Ages 6 and Up

From the Book Jacket: Emily wants to be an artist. She likes painting and loves the way artists like Pablo Picasso mixed things up. 

Emily's life is a little mixed up right now. Her dad doesn't live at home anymore, and it feels like everything around her is changing. 

"When Picasso was very sad," says Emily, "he only painted in shades of blue. And now I am in my blue period." It might last quite some time. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This is a story of a girl who is struggling with her parent's divorce and living between two homes. As she is studying about Pablo Picasso, she relates to the sadness he once felt in his life. It's hard to cope with dark feelings when you don't know what to do with them. She is inspired through art to find her healing. 

Her art teacher gives the class an assignment to make a collage of their house. But since Emily has two homes she is not sure which one to make. Her mom and little brother remind her a lot of people have more than one home. "Home is where the heart is." Emily is inspired to create a collage that represents her home, not a house. She says, "It's the home of my heart."

That night Emily notices a purple blob in the middle of her collage. She is upset her brother scribbled on the collage. But he shares, "It's not a scribble. It's a purple heart. I think your collage is the home of my heart, too!" This was my favorite part of the story. Both children find healing through her artwork. 

If you are working with children going through family change and they are feeling torn or mixed up about going between two homes - I highly recommend this book. What I love as a counselor is the opportunity it gives me to create a heart collage as part of the healing process. This is bibliotherapy at it's best and great art therapy. 

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