For any organization, one of the greatest things is coming across unsolicited praise from a consumer. We are always keeping our eyes peeled and ears open to hear what our customers are saying. We want to deliver the best experience that we possibly can for your child. But there is no sweeter … [Read more...]
T is for Table
Kamiya Design has come out with this interesting table and chairs set: While this certaily has its limitations (only 3 seats, the 'le' only works from one side, only one backrest, etc.) what a great alphabet conversation piece! We tip our hats to abc aficionados everywhere, and now we're on … [Read more...]
E is for ENGAGE!
In the spirit of celebrating the alphabet--wherever and whenever the opportunity presents itself--we share with you Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart, of course,) singing 'A You're Adorable' on the bridge of the Enterprise....and a happy intergalactic alphabet to all of you! … [Read more...]
Books that Say “Boo!”
It's the season for ghosts and vampires (and Jedi knights and Hanna Montanas) and werewolves. And, of course, it's a great time for spooky stories and books say "Boo!" The goal for many of us here is to find some great Halloween-themed bedtime tales--but NOT stories that are going to keep kids up … [Read more...]
Use your words!
My brother recently e-mailed me a story about his six-year-old daughter: Claire: Daddy, I really regret going on our trip to Canada and Niagara Falls. Daddy: Claire, you're too young to have regrets, but why do you regret it? Claire: Because on Webkins, if I don't work on my garden every day, it … [Read more...]
The Purple Pickle
Does this scenario sound at all familiar? It's raining. You've been inside with the kids all day. You've already allowed them twice their usual quota of TV. You've baked cookies. You've played Candyland over ten times. You've read so many books that your voice is raw and both your index fingers … [Read more...]
The First Library Card
"Daddy, I want a library card." "Sorry, Cassie, you're too young." "I'm six." "I know. But I'm pretty sure they don't give cards to kids your age." "Lucy has one." "Are you sure it's not her mom's?" "Come on! The librarian's right there. Let's ask!" I'm thrilled to report … [Read more...]
Illustrator Love – Part Two
I am really quite fond of all of the illustrators of Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read. I've told you a bit about a few of the illustrators, and now I'm back for more. Each one of these extraordinary people should be celebrated for the humor, suspense, and intrigue they added to the storybooks. In … [Read more...]
Introducing Video Thursdays
Starting today, we're launching Video Thursdays. There are so many songs, cartoons and fun videos in the new Learn to Read that we just have to share. As I've said before: "You'll laugh, you'll cry. You'll learn the sound of the letter I." Or... as with today's Video Thursday post, you'll … [Read more...]
Illustrator Love – Part One
Spoiler alert! What you're about to see are my favorite illustrations from some of the talented illustrators of the new Learn to Read. If you want to wait and see these illustrations in the book, I implore you to STOP READING NOW! Okay, so you want to see some pretty pictures, do you? I don't … [Read more...]
Songs By Our Favorite Musicians
As we've mentioned before, the new Learn to Read is a musical extravaganza. And that is in no small part due to the contributions from some of our favorite singers, songwriters and producers.The Bobs Cathy Fink and Marcy MarxerJonathan FeldmanTommy LepsonAnd of course, special thanks to my … [Read more...]
The Read-Aloud Handbook
Long before I became a parent, I read The Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease. It planted a little seed about the importance of reading aloud that has influenced my parenting since my daughter was born. Oops! scratch that, since before my daughter was born. I read her Harry Potter in utero to help … [Read more...]
April Is National Poetry Month
Did you know that April is National Poetry Month? It's a month-long celebration of poetry created by the Academy of American Poets. Just as poetry plays an important part in our culture, rhyming plays an important role in phonemic awareness. When kids can recognize and make rhymes, they're … [Read more...]
You’ll laugh, you’ll cry…
Hi. I'm Russell Ginns, Senior Director of Product Development at Smarterville, Inc. It's my privilege to lead the team of authors, illustrators, educators, animators and musicians who have created the new Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read. Over the next few months, the blog will give me a … [Read more...]
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