Charter Schools…A Panacea?

Our wonderful bookstore is passionate about education, reading, and everything related to being the best parents we can be.   Which is why we took notice when a new movie about education was brought to our attention.

The movie "Waiting for Superman" is fueling a bit of debate about our public school system and what should be done to fix it.

According to critics, the movie focuses on the failings of teachers’ unions and the tenure system and sings the praises of charter schools.   Recently, another new charter school opened in Chicago.  The CEO of Chicago Public Schools stated that there should be charter schools in every neighborhood.

But wait…aren’t there schools in every neighborhood already?   What will happen to the existing schools?  Will we cease to put any energies into improving the existing school structure, and completely replace the neighborhood schools with charter schools?  Will these schools be staffed by the same teachers and administrative folks?  Seems like that’s akin to merely shuffling the problem to a new facility.

My own two cents–there are failings on all sides–the school district, the unions, the teachers, the principals, the students, the parents, and the state board of education.  I’m throwing in the kitchen sink, because I think to oversimplify the problem means we’ll ignore the most viable solutions.  Charter schools are great.  Until the system is fixed, they are a band aid for a small minority of students who attend failing schools.

But don’t we owe it to the larger majority of students to make systemic changes that will make a difference in the quality of education they receive?  My friends, I, like many of us, don’t have the solution.

I do know one thing–

As parents, there are things we can do at home to combat the attitude that we find in some of our schools.

So, here’s my plug.  Let’s sit down and read.  No, I don’t think reading is a cure all (wouldn’t it be nice if it was??), but it sure does feel good to enjoy a good book and some quality time with your kiddos.

What are your thoughts on the movie and our education system in general?  We love a healthy, respectful conversation.

Happy Reading!

Finding Time to Read in a Rush, Rush World

Recently, I was sitting at my computer with a list of “to do’s”  striving to get as many things done as possible by barreling through the list at break-neck speed.  Yet, my mind kept wandering.  I mean, I was having serious issues focusing.  I don’t know if it was the deliciously warm, sunny weather that was begging me to go take a book and read outside or what, but I was distracted.

Yet, I still had many things I needed to finish.  What to do?  You may have guessed that I grabbed the book and headed outdoors.

Later that same day, I found myself thinking about how being busy keeps us and our kids from enjoying some of the simplest pleasures in life like reading.

The playgroups, the enrichment classes, preschool, dvds, and on and on.  We are so wired, and our kids are too.  I know we’ve heard the stories about over-scheduled kids, but the fear of our kids being succumbed to a life of mediocrity because they failed to get into the most elite school or social ineptitude because they weren’t in enough playgroups keeps some of us signing them up for more and more.

But what about good books?  I hope they’re not a thing of the past, because such a pleasurable diversion would be lost.

I’m not talking about reading on an E-reader.  I’m sure they are fabulous, and I’m not naive enough to pretend that e-readers are not slowing becoming a mainstay, but I love to hold the book in my hand, highlight interesting parts, dog-ear the pages, write in the front and back covers.  My books are well-worn and well-loved.

Anyway, back to my original point.  Where oh where do we find time for reading in our busy lives?

Here are a few things I discovered during my sweet reading excursion.  None of these “revelations” will be new to you, but I hope they will inspire you just a little bit to return to a simpler time when reading was so prominent in our households.

Turn off the TV…every now and then.

The drone of the TV can be so distracting, and while I don’t watch a great deal of TV, I find that when I do sit down to watch, it feels as if my mind goes on autopilot.  Now, I’m sure for those of you that watch super-intellectual shows this may not happen.  I’m almost ashamed to tell you what ridiculous reality TV I watch during my hour of TV a week.  Yep.  One hour a week.  Truthfully, I probably don’t even make it through the entire hour.  Anyway, let’s shut that thing off every evening for an hour or so.

I know it’s tempting to pop in a DVD and let Elmo entertain your kids.  I’ve done it and still do it when I’m exhausted, but let’s declare at least one day a week a TV free day.  Instead, pull out the latest book you’ve been reading or pull out a really good book to read aloud to your little one.  Just bask in the splendor of having your own voice and that of your child’s be the only soundtrack in the room.  Let the words saturate your mind and that of your child’s.  It’s sweet and wonderful, and you’ll find yourself more relaxed by the end of your time together.

Multi-Task.

I have recently discovered the joys of not multi-tasking.  I’m training myself to focus on one thing at a time and do that one thing well and completely before I move to the next task.  It’s so hard for me to do, but I’m working on it.  However, I’ll make an exception if you’re multi-tasking for the sake of literacy.  Read during bath time.  Read right after bath.  Read while eating breakfast together.  Have a few books on hand for your little one to thumb through on the car ride from school or daycare.  Go ahead, you have my permission to multi-task, but just this once!

Simplify.

I know I said this earlier, but I’m truly amazed at how hectic our lives have become–sometimes by choice and sometimes by necessity.  I am a fan of the To Do list, but I am amazed some days when I look at all of the things on the list.  Really?  Do I expect to complete all of those things in one day? What impact does this over-scheduled lifestyle have on my child?

Childhood should be simple, right?  I’ve decided that instead of enrolling in multiple  play groups, I’m going to take some time to enrich through connecting reading and life.  It may mean that many items get shifted to the next day’s list, but that’s life.

Instead, we’ll probably pick leaves again this weekend and talk about the leaves we picked.  I’ll probably try to find a great book about fall that will connect our leaf walks with reading.  Thankfully, he’s still way too young to think this is nerdy, so I’m going to take advantage of that.

At the end of this brief period of childhood, I want our little one to say that he laughed a lot, read even more, and played as much as any kid possibly could.

Here’s to more reading and more living!

Failing Schools..What’s A Parent To Do?

Normally I spend my few hundred words or so talking about a great book, a reading club we’ve created, or something happy and joyful related to an awesome multicultural book.

In the past few weeks, I have noticed more and more articles about students in trouble and troubled schools.

I recently read an article in the Chicago Tribune about the percentages of schools in the Chicago area that received a failing grade.  If you read the article, you’ll notice lots of quibbling over how the grading was performed and various theories for the motivation behind it, but that’s not my concern at the moment.

I was struck most by what something like this would mean for the children at those schools.  Twenty-five percent of elementary schools in Chicago received a failing grade.  What’s going on in those classrooms?  What’s going on at home?

Are we hiring capable, qualified teachers?  Are we setting the standards high enough?  Are we doing enough at home?  All questions, mind you, to which I do not have the answer.

I’ve never been one to blame any group–educators, parents, media, or government–entirely.  But, I do wonder how the shortcomings in all areas have created a colossal mess for our kids.

It goes without saying that I am not an education expert.  I admire men and women with the tenacity, patience, and courage to teach our kids.   I am a parent in the Chicago area.  So, this definitely worries me, and I hope it worries most parents who are or are considering sending their kid(s) to public school.  I’m sure similar stories can be told in urban areas across the country.

In Illinois we’re slashing education funding, but schools are still failing?!  I’m miffed, and I keep wondering what will it take to change this dire situation.

I have no stats to back this up at the moment (although I am certain they exist–I did some education related litigation work in a not too distant past), but a quality education touches on every facet of life–involvement in the criminal justice system, access to quality jobs or opportunities to start one’s own business, etc. etc. etc.

Like I said, I don’t have any solutions yet.  But,  I do think dialogue is important and a necessary precursor to action.  Our kids shouldn’t keep suffering at the hands of a misfiring education system.  With each passing week and month, this issue becomes nearer and dearer to my heart, because I will have a little one to send off to school.

On a side note, I’m reading a book recommendation entitled “Morning by Morning: How We Home Schooled Our African-American Sons to the Ivy League” by Paula Penn-Nabrit.   Now I should mention two things–I currently have no plans to home school, but I think that all parents are home-schoolers whether their kids go to a school outside of the home.  The second thing–don’t be discouraged from reading this if your kids happen to not be boys or African-American.  I think many of the principles and insights are applicable across race and gender.  Have you read it?  If so, give me your thoughts.  I would love to hear them.

I wish I could offer it for sale today in the bookstore, but our distributor no longer carries it.  Don’t worry, I’m looking around.  Hopefully, by the time I finish reading it and doing a book review (don’t time me), I will be able to offer it as a resource for parents.

Happy Friday and Happy Reading!

September is Literacy Month

Literacy Month,  for book nerds like us, is like having our own little Christmas in September.  So, that’s exactly what we plan to do–celebrate words, reading, and the power of families reading together.

Did you know that, according to readfaster.com, the website for The Literacy Company, 44 million adults reportedly cannot read well enough to read a simple children’s story and nearly half of American adults are functionally illiterate?

I’m not a literacy researcher, so I cannot verify the accuracy of these statistics, but if they are true, then it is really disheartening.  However, we’re a bookstore for kids, so I’m optimistic that with great books and a commitment by parents and caregivers to make reading a number 1 priority, we can all do a little to turn a grim situation into a better one.

If those stats don’t make you nervous, the same site reports that

60% of America’s prison inmates are illiterate and 85% of all juvenile offenders have reading problems.

A little disclaimer.  Readfaster.com is a commercial site that sells reading products.  I didn’t review the products they sell nor am I endorsing them.

You see, I’m not a literacy specialist or a reading teacher.  I’m just (not just, but you know what I mean) a mom, avid reader, and someone who cares about kids and providing great books for kids.

Plus, I know from my own childhood that reading can be fun, and celebrating reading all month long is going to be so much fun!

All month, we’re combing the web and every resource we can get our hands on to provide tips on how to read with your kids and ways to engage your kids in the learning process.

Of course, when your little multiculti cutie gets accepted into every Ivy League school to which she applies, you can write us and let us know

So, check back frequently this month for tips, ideas, and advice from reading specialists.  We know you’ll be happy you did.

Images of American Indians in Children’s Literature

I came across this really great blog by an American Indian assistant professor at University of Illinois.  You might find her post about images of American Indians in children’s literature enlightening.

I definitely remember the arts and crafts projects around Thanksgiving as well as the images in books that showed American Indians wearing full headdress.

Check out the images, and then check the books your kids are reading.  We’ll post some great alternative books in the coming days.

Images of American Indians in Children’s Books

Happy Reading!

Summer Fun: Multicultural Arts and Crafts

We’ve just returned from a great visit to South Africa.  There are so many great books that maybe we’ll visit again before the summer is over.  First, let’s enjoy some multicultural arts and crafts.

Here is a great book that is sure to get you and your child’s creative juices flowing.  So, pick a few projects.  Since the weather is nice, maybe even take your craft project outside and enjoy the sun.

Arts & Crafts

Kids’ Multicultural Art Book

By: Alexandra Michaels

Kids will enjoy this book filled with art projects for ages 3-9.  Since we just finished a short trip to South Africa, why not pick a related craft project to share with your little ones.

Children will explore roots, rhythms, and traditions from all corners of the earth while crafting their own projects, from Kachina dolls of the American Southwest to paper beads from Egypt.

We hope you enjoy the book and that you come back to continue on our summer trip around the world.  More great books and fun in store.

Happy Reading!

Summer Reading Club: South African Culture and Folktales Galore

So far we’ve learned a bit about South Africa through soccer, but South Africa is definitely much more than just soccer.  So, for the next few days we’re going to explore the cultural traditions of South Africa as well as enjoy some of its rich storytelling traditions.  From a kid’s point of view, of course.

So, just what’s so great about this country?  Here are a few great books that can help us learn more.

Kids Around the World South Africa

By: Pamela Michaelson, Illustrated by: Kenneth Negran

Kids Around the World

This is a great book designed to educate kids about other kids around the world.  This particular title deals specifically with South Africa.  The wonderfully colorful, cartoon-like images are sure to keep children engaged and provide parents an opportunity to expand their child’s understanding of the world.  We love books that do that!

This book would be most appropriate for kids on the upper end of the 4-8 age range and the lower end of the 9-12 age range.

The Gift of the Sun: A Tale from South Africa

By: Dianne Stewart, Illustrated by: Jude Daly

We thought you might enjoy a little fiction that tells a fun, humorous story about a South African farmer and the lengths he will go through to spend his days basking in the sun instead of working on the farm.  The book also has a few lessons for kids to learn along the way.

Nelson Mandela’s Favorite African Folktales

By: Nelson Mandela

This book contains African folktales selected by former President and Nobel Laureate, Nelson Mandela.   The illustrations, paintings commissioned specifically for this book, are so beautiful and rich that we had to share this book with you.  This collection includes a well-known tale about Simba, the Kenyan lion.   Modern tales are great, but there’s something so fun and enjoyable about well-worn stories shared throughout generations.

We hope you enjoy these titles.  But most importantly, we hope these books expand your child’s view of the world around her.

We’re not leaving South  Africa just yet.  Check back in a few days to explore the history of this wonderful country.

Tell us about your trip to South Africa.  We’d love to see your photos!

Books are available at  the MultiCulti Baby Book Shop.

Happy Reading!

Summer Reading Club: A Budget-Friendly Mini-Trip Around the World!

It’s summer!  Finally!  Consistently warm weather, sun, and the kids are out of school until Labor Day.  What’s a parent to do?  I’m sure you have plenty of fun activities lined up for your kids, or maybe you just let them run free all summer long.  Not a bad plan either way.  We want to invite you to include our Reading Club on your child’s summer agenda.

It starts today, but mind you, in the spirit of summer, it’s super-relaxed.  No stressful week-by-week reading requirements with questions to answer and all of that.  Instead, we’re taking you and your 0-3 and 4-8 year olds on a wonderfully fun, super budget friendly, six week trip around the world without even leaving your home.

I’ve selected some books that I think are just plain fun and enjoyable and run the gamut from folktales to photo-based books exploring the lives of kids all over the world.  Of course, what trip would be complete without some really good food?  So, we’re going to take some time out to celebrate the glorious, savory food traditions in other regions.  Finally, we’ll end our trip and have some fun right in our own backyard.

So, first things first.  How will this “Club” work?  Well, if you’re reading this, then you’re  an official member.  But I would also encourage you to sign-up for our newsletter so you can get all of our updates and information, and so we’ll know you joined the family.

First Stop–South Africa. The entire world has World Cup fever, so we figured it would be a great time to visit a country that finds itself, after many years of tension and strife, hosting one of the world’s most beloved sports competitions.  To me, that sounds like a great testament to the spirit behind MultiCulti Baby.

So, let’s play some soccer.

Soccer Lovers

Goal!

by: Mina Javaherbin, illus. by: A.G. Ford

This book is perfect for kids on the older end of the 4-8 age group or for parents to read with/to their younger kids.  What I like most about this book is its rich illustrations, the theme of friendship, and the power of dreaming big dreams.  You get the sense as you read that the boys in this book long to be soccer players on a much larger stage than their neighborhood alley, and you can feel that possibility throughout the book.  This book also deals with a few not-so-fun  realities of safety and bullying, but overall the focus is on youthful fun.

“Uplifting and inspiring, this beautifully written and illustrated book reminds us of the joys and saving grace of friendship and sport. Set in South Africa, this book is a gift for soccer fans and all families around the world.” – Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Want to know more about Mina, the author?  Find out all you ever wanted to know here.

And what about the future soccer lover that may be a little younger?  A perfect board book, of course.

Soccer for Little Readers

Goal!  My Soccer Book

By: David Diehl

I love a good board book.  There’s something so cute about those chubby little fingers grasping at the thick pages and something so wonderful about those same chubby (and likely sticky) fingers being unable to ruin the book.  So, as we travel the world and catch a little World Cup fever, here is a book for the younger set.  I think it’s a perfect book for reading with your 0-3 year old, but equally perfect for the 4-6ers to read on their own and identify familiar words.

The book describes the game of soccer including everything from how to kick and score in very simple, easy-to-read language.

Exploring South Africa through Soccer

Soccer World South Africa: Explore the World through Soccer

By: Ethan Zohn/David Rosenburg

Illustrated by: Shawn Bradley

This fun and lively book for 4-8 year olds journeys through the country of South Africa and explores the many wonderful, rich cultural traditions of the country while enjoying one of the world’s most beloved sports.

Kids will enjoy the cartoon-like illustrations and learn a lot of about the country at the same time.

Of course, South Africa is more than just soccer.  Throughout our first week abroad, we’ll explore some of the other rich, amazing aspects of this country.  Landscape, folktales, history, food…we’ll take a look at all of it.

Have you visited South Africa with your multiculti cutie?  Tell us about your trip.  Even better, send us pics to share.

In the next few days, I will share our complete summer travel plans as well as a list of all the great books we’ll share.  Of course, parents can purchase these books in our Book Shop and enjoy 15% off.

Til next time.  Happy Reading!

Books to Read with Daddy

Father’s Day is right around the corner, and we want to take a few moments to celebrate Dads with great books for Dad to share with his little one.  Here are some of our picks, and we know there are many more.   These books are funny, informative, encouraging, and, most importantly, highlight different races and cultures.  What’s your favorite book for Dad?

I’m Just Like My Mom/I’m Just Like My Dad/

Me Parezco Tanto a mi Mama & Me Parezco Tanto a mi Papa by Jorge Ramos.

This wonderful bilingual book describes how a young child possesses traits similar to her mother and her father. Children can enjoy this book in English and Spanish.

Just the Two of Us by Will Smith

Illustrated by Kadir Nelson

Written by actor & musician Will Smith, this book celebrates the special bond between father and son.

This book makes a great read for Dad to enjoy with his son or even his daughter.

Papa & Me by Arthur Dorros

A bilingual boy and his father who only speaks Spanish spend the day together sharing laughter, fun and stories.

Peekaboo Morning by Rachel Isadora

This board book highlights one of a toddler’s favorite games to enjoy with mom and dad–peekaboo.

Follow this cute little tot as she enjoys peekaboo throughout the day.   Perfect for chubby little fingers.

Welcome, Precious by Nikki Grimes

This beautifully illustrated board book captures the joy and love a family shares as they welcome their newborn into the family.

Grandfather’s Journey by Allen Say

A Japanese American man describes his grandfather’s journey to America.  He also goes on the same journey and discovers a love for two very different countries.  This book provides a great way to teach kids about time, history and some differences between Japanese and American culture.

My Dad and Me by Alyssa Capucilli

The love between dads and their children is presented in this charming tale. Dad and child enjoy special moments like bike rides and afternoons playing in the snow.  This book also includes colorful illustrations via flaps with tri-fold pages of each fun-filled scene.

Earth Day: Seven Days and Seven Ways to Celebrate-Day Two

Today marks Day Two of  our Seven Day Earth Day celebration.  I’m excited, because today provides an opportunity to teach kids about Earth Day through arts and crafts.  There are tons of craft projects out there, but I found one that I think really highlights what Earth Day is all about. 

This project listed on kaboose.com uses recyclable materials and is a great way to share Earth Day with your kids.

http://crafts.kaboose.com/earth-tin-can-herb-pots.html

This tin can herb pot craft allows kids to grow and recycle all at once, and you get great herbs to enjoy for a long time. 

Kaboose.com is one of my all-time favorite craft sites, and it has a lot of other Earth Day projects for you and your kids to enjoy.

 What’s your favorite arts and crafts project using recycled materials?