From: Ginny Moore Kruse <gmkruse>
Date: Tue, 08 Nov 2005 16:19:31 -0600

Corrie, I'm delighted to see that your list includes "Baby Danced the Polka" written by Karen Beaumont with artwork by Jennifer Plecas (Dial, 2004). It's one of my recent favorites.
  Perhaps others have also recommended this fresh, fun, lift-the-flap book, too. The household in "Baby Danced the Polka" is quite different from Bob Graham's memorable images of families with young children. Somehow, though, the carefree spirit of "Baby Danced the Polka" reminds me of Graham's images of parents whose loving baby-care expresses such personal individuality. The flaps are right in sync with the story of a baby who can't settle in for a nap. The literal closure is perfect.
  I continue to think about seeing Susan Straub's marvelous film "Reading with Babies / Leyendo con Beb?s" last week. This short film is chock-full of images of babies from infancy to 24 months interacting with many types of age/stage-appropriate books. The babies take the lead, and their adults keep up, or try to keep up. If a baby is hungry or uncomfortable, the adults make time for what's first on the baby's agenda. It was amazing to see how a formerly fussy tyke wanted to handle and/or see a book as soon as s/he became comfortable. "Baby Danced the Polka" is only one of many terrific book ideas in this film. For tips about reading with babies and for info about "Reading with Babies / Leyendo con Beb?s," see www.readtomeprogram.org
  Wrap up some of the books for babies featured in this video - and wrap up the video, too -for a baby shower gift certain to be appreciated - and used, as well!
  Best, Ginny
 

Ginny Moore Kruse gmkruse at education.wisc.edu
 
 
Received on Tue 08 Nov 2005 04:19:31 PM CST