Children who spend lots of time outside are happier, healthier and grow up with a stronger appreciation of nature ("Know the Facts" from the National Wildlife Federation). At this time of year especially, adults are really challenged to get preschoolers and toddlers outside.  It takes plenty of warm outerwear; it's time consuming to get all this gear on and off, and young children need lots of help to do so.  Adults need to have the gear too so that we can tolerate being outside and supporting their play.  Some worry that the cold is harmful to the health of little ones, especially if they are already sniffling (which seems like it's most of the time!).  However, medical experts assure us that getting chilled does not lead to illness.  In fact, getting outside away from the hothouse of germs indoors and getting plenty exercise will help our bodies shield against health problems (Medical News Today).

Despite it's age, The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats is still my all-time favorite book about snow to read aloud to toddlers and preschool children.  The content exactly matches the interests and observations of this age group and never fails to captures their attention.  Don't let this snowy season pass without several readings of this timeless book!

You can also find it on Dayton Metro Library's Bookflix.

           "Where is Green in winter?

            Green darkens, shrinks,

            stiffens into needles.

            Green waits

            in the hearts of trees,

            feeling the earth

            turn."

                                    -Joyce Sidman

Treat yourself with a lovely book about colors and the seasons.  You and your child will find lots to talk about in the pictures.  It is one of two Caldecott Honor books this year.

In Mrs. Muddle's neighborhood just about every holiday is celebrated:  Ramadan, Rosh Hashnah, Christmas, etc.  But Mrs. Muddle has her own holidays. On First Robin Day she hangs bits of colored yarn on the trees and bushes, on First Shower of April she dances the Water Waltz and the Puddle Plop, and on the first Saturday in May, she has Earthworm Appreciation Day.  The wonderful thing about Mrs. Muddle's holidays is that all the children in the neighborhood can join in and turn their focus on the many wonderful things about being alive.  What might you celebrate and create community with all your neighbors?