BY VICTORIA F. BURNOS, MSP, CCC-SLP

As Winter Break nears, I’m dreaming of warm fires, hot chocolate, heavy blankets and curling up on the couch reading sweet stories with little ones. On my recent visit to the book fair, I found these five books that will surely calm your cozy heart this Christmas.

Bear Can’t Sleep

I was first introduced to Bear in Bear Wants More and these books quickly became a go-to for me. With their simple rhythm, rhyme and repeatable phrases, the Bear books are perfect for toddlers to preschools. The forest friends are always there to lend a hand and help poor old Bear. Each friend brings something new to the table. Cuddle up and enjoy!

Snowman at Night

This book is delightful. What fun to imagine the adventures Snowmen engage in when we aren’t looking! When reading with little ones, I love books with limited text and detailed illustrations and this one is just that. The elaborate detail, nuances and intricacies of the pictures allow opportunity to meet a child wherever they are in their reading skills. This is a favorite all winter long!

The Thing about Yetis

Strangely popular these days, the Yeti loves Winter. This cute and comical book makes way for fun conversation about all the Winter things. Providing opportunity for perspective taking, this book contrasts winter and summer activities and attributes. Warm up with these friends over the holiday!

The Mitten

A classic to cuddle with, The Mitten shares the tale about forest friends in winter finding a “new home” where they can all gather. Check out the pictures surrounding the pages and get your little one to guess what will happen next. This book is full of fun details, so spend time searching the pages!

Waiting

I recently discovered the author, Kevin Henkes, and I have loved all his little books. Waiting is no different. This delightful adventure details the life of knick-knacks and toys as they wait by the window. Each waiting for something new to happen, the story unfolds with each page. There is much unwritten in Waiting making it a great read for younger and older children (and adults) alike. What are you waiting for? Curl up with this one over break.

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