It's been a while since I've posted anything on my blog because I've been writing for Blissfully Domestic and although my review of If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Numeroff first appeared on Blissfully Domestic I want to share it again here ...
The countdown to kindergarten is on in our house. At first it was months, then weeks and now we are counting sleeps.
With only a few sleeps left before we have to start getting up early for school we want to start an earlier bedtime routine. We thought reading a new book at bedtime about school would help. When I walked into the bookstore and saw “If You Take a Mouse to School” by Laura Numerfoff I knew I’d found the perfect book. We love this series; “If you Give a Moose a Muffin” and “If you Give a Cat A Cupcake” are bedtime favorites so, “If You Take a Mouse to School” was a great addition to our library.
To make it even more special, I wrote a note to our son Matthew in the front cover, wrapped the book up like a present and hid it under his pillow to find as a surprise. The other night, with teeth brushed and pajamas on, he pulled down his covers and found the present.
“Look mom, a present! Can I open it?” A smile spread across his face as his fingers tore at the paper to reveal the book. “Hooray!” he exclaimed, “Can we read it?”
We did and have every night since. We laugh at the mouse and talk all about the adventures he has at school. It gives us a great time to talk about school and settle into a bedtime routine.
I recommend this book to all lovers of Laura Numeroff’s books and to all parents looking for help to prepare children for school.
I also encourage you to write a note to your child on the inside cover of the book. Your words of encouragement are important. I often read the note aloud to him; he especially likes the part about when he was a baby … so do I. I’m happy to share it with you for a little inspiration:
Dear, Dear, Dear Matthew
Wow! In a few days you will start kindergarten. We remember holding you in our arms when you were a baby and saying, “Before we know it, he’ll be in kindergarten.” And, now our baby has grown into a little boy off to start a new adventure.
We are so proud of you! We love you and know you will love kindergarten.
Hugs & Kisses from
Mom & Dad
