Here's What We Found

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links These Books are inspired by the childhood of NFL superstars Tiki and Ronde Barber. As a father of boys, Tiki said he noticed there weren't many books that encouraged little boys to read. He wanted to do something to change that. The brothers have done just that with their collection of sports books. Here are nine children's books about football, teammates, and life that kids will enjoy. Most of these books are recommended for ages 8-12. For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions with each book. Tiki struggles to recover from a game day fumble until his brother helps him out in this story about perseverance. Tiki can’t believe it when the ball is knocked out of his hand in the Cave Spring Viking’s last preseason game against their rival Knights. And when nobody wants to talk to him the next day at lunch, he feels even worse. Can his brother and coach help him regain his confidence? Find it here Tiki and Ronde were the stars of their Pee Wee football team, the Cave Springs Vikings. But middle school is much bigger than elementary school and it’s a whole different game—on and off the field. When Coach Spangler takes a job coaching for the high school team and Tiki’s old science teacher Mr. Wheeler is tapped for the middle school coaching job, the beginning of the school year and the football season is off to a bumpy start. But through working together, the boys discover that the whole team is bigger than any of its parts. Find it here Tiki and Ronde's twelfth summer is winding down -- the nights are getting shorter and the evenings cooler. That means two things: The first day of junior high is just a few days away, and it's almost the start of football season at last. With two championships and an 8-2 season last year, Tiki and Ronde are ready to graduate from the Peewee League and hit the field as starting players for the Hidden Valley Eagles. But junior high is a lot bigger than elementary school. The competition for starting spots is stiff, and seniority rules. If Tiki and Ronde make it past tryouts and cuts, will they get the chance to play, or will they have to spend the season watching from the bench with the other seventh graders? Inspired by the childhood of NFL superstars Tiki and Ronde Barber, Kickoff! is a story of teamwork, perseverance, and what it takes to be a champion. Find it here Based on the childhood of National Football League superstars Ronde and Tiki Barber, this inspiring picture book about the values of family, hard work, and determination shows what it takes to be a champion. Tiki and Ronde were each other’s best friends. Together from the start, these twins might not have been the strongest or the tallest, but they were fast and worked hard at what they loved. And they loved sports, especially football. Then one day Tiki hurt his knee badly in a biking accident, and he was sure he’d never be able to play again. Their mother had always told them, “You are each other’s best friends. Stick together, believe in yourselves, and you can do anything.” They kept her words in their hearts and never gave up. Find it here The Hidden Valley Eagles have high hopes for the football championship in this middle grade novel from NFL superstars and bestselling authors Tiki and Ronde Barber. Tiki and Ronde are ready to end junior high with a win—a big win! Their dream is to see their team in the championship, and with the Hidden Valley Eagles’ undefeated season, their chances are strong. But when Manny, the star quarterback, starts having headaches, the doctor says he has a minor concussion, and he is out for two weeks. The whole school is counting on the team, but with pressure building, Tiki and Ronde are starting to lose their confidence. More than that, they think their good luck is going to run out. Will the team let an injury keep them from the championship? Or can they learn to work together to bring home a win? From real-life NFL superstar brothers Tiki and Ronde Barber, this is an inspiring story of teamwork and triumph. Find it here Balancing priorities presents a challenge in this heartwarming novel about teamwork and perseverance from NFL superstars and bestselling authors Tiki and Ronde Barber. Tiki and Ronde have grown a lot during the spring and summer. At the start of ninth grade, they’re not only wiser and more mature, but they’re also taller and stronger—with bigger muscles and bigger hands to grab and hold the ball. Factor in the return of their beloved Coach Wheeler, and the boys couldn’t be readier for football season. But when Tiki wins an essay contest and gives an inspirational speech in front of the whole school, he becomes sought after for guidance and advice. The school paper even wants him to do a Dear Tiki column! However, Tiki would prefer to make his mark on the field—and with the Eagles starting 4-0 and a perfect season in sight, he’ll have to put a lid on his advice column and concentrate on football. Find it here The Hidden Valley Eagles have the championship in sight—but will chicken pox get in the way? The Hidden Valley Eagles are on track to make the playoffs. Full of focus and determination, every player is at his best, and the team is working better together than ever before. But when a bout of chicken pox threatens to overtake the team, will their playoff dreams disappear? Find it here Ronde and Tiki are a team. They are twins, they are each other’s best friends and biggest fans, and they play on the same football team in this picture book based on a true story. Tiki has had seven long touch-down runs this season, and Ronde is proud of his brother, but he can’t help feeling a little down when Tiki gets all the glory. If Ronde hadn’t been leading the way with his blocks, Tiki wouldn’t have been clear to score. Ronde thinks nobody notices the guy who blocks; they only notice the guy who scores. Will the day ever come when Ronde will get his chance? Written by two NFL superstars, this story of perseverance and teamwork will inspire. Barry Root’s glowing illustrations bring to life all the excitement and energy of a great game and a team working together. Find it here Every Child is a Reader Sometimes it may seem like some children don't like to read, but we've found that there are many factors that can affect that circumstance. Finding books with the subjects, stories, and at the right reading level can spark a love of reading in children. Thankfully there are a lot of options to choose from. Check out some of our past posts for ideas. You may find this post about adding more reading to your child's day helpful as well. More Books from Tiki and Ronde Barber Tiki Barber have written dozens of books for both children and adults. Find more of their books here. Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: It's Kick Off Time! The Best Children's Books about Football Multicultural Holiday Children's Books that Celebrate Diverse Traditions Baby Love: The 7 Best Baby Board Books to Read Right Now Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Children's Books by Indigenous Authors to Add to Your Bookshelf Today Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links The Hero Two Doors Down by Sharon Robinson was provided by Scholastic, a Platinum Sponsor of Multicultural Children's Book Day. This review of The Hero Two Doors Down is a part of Multicultural Children's Book Day (MCBD). The mission of MCBD is to raise awareness of the need to include children’s books that celebrate diversity on bookshelves at home and at school. About the Book The Hero Two Doors Down celebrates diversity by reminding us that friendship isn't bound by the color of a person's skin or the religious customs they observe. This heartwarming story is based on the true story of the friendship between Jackie Robinson, a legendary African American baseball player and a young Jewish boy named Steve Satlow, who looked to Jackie as a hero. SEVEN THEMES READERS WILL FIND WHILE READING THIS BOOK 1. BASEBALL It's 1948 and Steve Satlow is a dedicated Brooklyn Dodgers fan. He and his dad spend a lot of time following the team – Jackie Robinson’s baseball team. Steve’s somewhat lackluster life takes a sharp turn when the African American family rumored to be moving into his all-Jewish neighborhood, turns out to be the Robinson family. Steve would now be living two doors down from his all-time hero, Jackie Robinson! 2. CIVIL RIGHTS When one of Steve’s neighbors makes a snide remark about the African American family moving into their all-Jewish neighborhood, Steve gets upset. He reflects on the hate Jackie Robinson had encountered simply because his skin was black. While the book doesn’t dwell on the civil rights issues surrounding the Robinson’s move to the Jewish neighborhood, it does open the door for a discussion about it. 3. REAL FRIENDSHIP Jackie Robinson was Steve’s hero long before Steve ever met Jackie, but an even deeper admiration and love blossomed when the young boy was able to get to know Jackie as a friend. Sometimes Steve had a hard time at school and Jackie would show up and somehow make things better. It was refreshing to watch the friendship grow. 4. GOOD CHARACTER Young readers are able to learn about Jackie Robinson’s character. They learn what makes Jackie a hero not just on the baseball field, but also off the baseball field. It’s a great lesson in humility and kindness. Although Jackie was a baseball legend, he was still approachable. He was kind, caring, and friendly. 5. HEROES Young readers will be delighted to watch as Steve gets a chance to meet his hero. Most children have heroes whom they dream of one day meeting. While there's only a small chance that we will meet our heroes, this story is a reminder that anything is possible. 6. NOT JUST BASEBALL The initial thought is to offer The Hero Two Doors Down only to readers who like baseball, but that would be a mistake. Baseball is just one theme of the book. Other themes like friendship, perseverance, and family traditions extends the reach of this book to children of all interests. 7. PERSEVERANCE Jackie says to Steve: “You’ve got to keep moving on and up. You’ll become your best self if you stay focused, set goals, and don’t let anyone stop you from making your dreams come true.” There are a lot of lessons we could all learn from the life that Jackie Robinson lived! FINAL THOUGHTS The Hero Two Doors Down is a great book for learning about the value of true friendship. Friendship isn't limited by the color of a person's skin or the religious customs a person observes. Sometimes the most unlikely friendships can last a lifetime, as evidenced by the real-life pictures of the Robinson and Satlow families included in the back of the book. (current as of the book's publishing) ABOUT JACKIE ROBINSON Jackie Robinson was the first African American to join baseball’s major league in 1947 as a prominent member of the Brooklyn Dodgers. Robinson’s belief in equality gave him the chance to bring the message to America and the world that race should not be a consideration for anything. via History for Kids EDUCATION EXTENSION ACTIVITIES *Brain Pop *42 movie trailer *PBS Jackie Robinson Documentary *Jackie Robinson/Civil Rights Timeline *Jackie Robinson biography on History for Kids *Other books by Sharon Robinson *FREE Jackie Robinson Coloring Page Download This review is a part of the Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2017 (1/27/17) The following information was shared by MCBD: MCBD is in its fourth year and was founded by Valarie Budayr from Jump Into A Book and Mia Wenjen from Pragmatic Mom. The mission of MCBD is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kid’s books that celebrate diversity in home and school bookshelves while also working diligently to get more of these types of books into the hands of young readers, parents and educators. Despite census data that shows 37% of the US population consists of people of color, only 10% of children’s books published have diversity content. Using the Multicultural Children’s Book Day holiday, the MCBD Team are on a mission to change all of that. Current Sponsors: MCBD 2017 is honored to have some amazing Sponsors on board. Platinum Sponsors include Scholastic, Barefoot Books and Broccoli. Other Medallion Level Sponsors include heavy-hitters like Author Carole P. Roman, Audrey Press, Candlewick Press, Fathers Incorporated, KidLitTV, Capstone Young Readers, ChildsPlayUsa, Author Gayle Swift, Wisdom Tales Press, Lee& Low Books, The Pack-n-Go Girls, Live Oak Media, Author Charlotte Riggle, Chronicle Books and Pomelo Books Author Sponsor include: Karen Leggett Abouraya, Veronica Appleton, Susan Bernardo, Kathleen Burkinshaw, Delores Connors, Maria Dismondy, D.G. Driver, Geoff Griffin, Savannah Hendricks, Stephen Hodges, Carmen Bernier-Grand,Vahid Imani, Gwen Jackson, Hena, Kahn, David Kelly, Mariana Llanos, Natasha Moulton-Levy, Teddy O'Malley, Stacy McAnulty, Cerece Murphy, Miranda Paul, Annette Pimentel, Greg Ransom, Sandra Richards, Elsa Takaoka, Graciela Tiscareño-Sato, Sarah Stevenson, Monica Mathis-Stowe SmartChoiceNation, Andrea Y. Wang LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SPONSORS CoHost Team: We’d like to also give a shout-out to MCBD’s impressive CoHost Team who not only hosts the book review link-up on celebration day, but who also work tirelessly to spread the word of this event. View our Co Hosts HERE. #BlackHistoryMonth #childrensbooks #readyourworld

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Parent Teacher Conferences are a necessary part of academic success. Conferences give teachers and parents an opportunity to team up for the betterment of their student. But conferences can be a little nerve wrecking (dare we say scary?) for parents. Parents weren't given a guide on how to have a successful meeting with teachers. They don't always know what they should or shouldn't do or what they should or shouldn't say. And if there are any issues with the teacher or school, conferences can have an extra layer of fright to them. However, there's no need to fret. Most teachers are understanding and are happy to have engaged and caring parents to work with to help students be successful. HERE ARE A FEW EASY TIPS FOR PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCE SUCCESS BE CONSISTENT Consistently stay abreast of what's happening with your child at school so you're not cramming at the last minute to figure out what's going on. It's a good idea to make note of questions and concerns as the school year progresses. This can be as simple as sticking a piece of paper on the fridge and jotting your questions or concerns on the paper as they arise. PREPARE QUESTIONS AND CONCERNES AHEAD OF TIME If you haven't started your ongoing question and concern sheet, now is the time to write everything down. While you may be able to think of these things at home, once in the meeting it's easy to forget. To make sure you get the information you need, write it down! Write down questions about things like your child's academic and social progress, the school, the classroom procedures, testing, and etc. BE OPEN MINDED You may hear things about your child that surprise you. Some of it may be negative and that's a difficult pill to swallow. Assume that the teacher wants what's best for your child and is only sharing negative information so that those issues can be worked on and ultimately fixed. THINK TEAMWORK Express desire to work with the school for the success of your child. When it comes to a child's success in school, teachers, parents, and even the community have to work together to support the child. TAKE NOTES Write down what is said so you can review it later. There is usually a lot of information being given. It may be difficult to keep up or completely understand all of it. Taking notes allows you to review the information at your own pace to be sure you understand everything. GET CONTACT INFO You've asked your questions and taken your notes, now you'll head home to review and process it all. Ask for the best contact method for any follow-up questions you may have. This opens the door for communication and shows the teacher your commitment to staying engaged in the educational process. FREE DOWNLOAD Download this free Parent-Teacher Conference Notes Guide to help you organize your thoughts and prepare for a successful meeting. MORE PARENTING RESOURCES IN OUR BOOKSHOP SEVEN QUESTIONS PARENTS MAY WANT TO ASK: 1. May I tell you about my child? 2. How is my child doing socially? 3. What can I do at home to support my child's success? 4. Is my child performing on grade level? 5. What are my child's strengths and weaknesses academically? 6. What are my child's favorite things to do at school? 7. What is the best way to contact you? #TeacherConference #Education

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Title: Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans Publisher: Balzer & Bray/Harperteen Author/Illustrator: Kadir Nelson Purchase: Bookshop Publisher's Description The story of America and African Americans is a story of hope and inspiration and unwavering courage. In Heart and Soul, Kadir Nelson's stirring paintings and words grace 100-plus pages of a gorgeous picture book--a beautiful gift for readers of all ages, a treasure to share across generations at home or in the classroom. Heart and Soul is about the men, women, and children who toiled in the hot sun picking cotton; it's about the America ripped in two by Jim Crow laws; it's about the brothers and sisters of all colors who rallied against those who would dare bar a child from an education. It's a story of discrimination and broken promises, determination, and triumphs. Kadir Nelson's Heart and Soul--the winner of numerous awards, including the Coretta Scott King Author Award and Illustrator Honor, and the recipient of five starred reviews--is told through the unique point of view and intimate voice of a one-hundred-year-old African American female narrator. This inspiring book demonstrates that in striving for freedom and equal rights, African Americans help our country on the journey toward its promise of liberty and justice--the true heart and soul of our nation. The paperback edition also features eight pages of discussion and curriculum material. Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans is a story of hope and courage. But it is also the story of injustice of a country divided by law, education, and wealth of a people whose struggles and achievements helped define their country (from inside flap) Thoughts The illustrations bring the book to life and create a tender connection with the stories shared. This book features stories and events that might evoke strong feelings like sadness or anger, but there are also parts of the book that might make readers proud or even laugh a little. Words from the back cover of the book say it best, "You have to know where you come from so you can move forward." This is a great book for all ages! Watch Kadir Nelson Kadir Nelson, one of this generation's most accomplished, award-winning artists, has created an epic yet intimate introduction to the history of America and African Americans, from colonial days through the civil rights movement. #childrensbooks #Reconstruction #History #BlackHistoryMonth

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links WHY POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS FOR KIDS ARE IMPORTANT Growing up is already full of ups and downs and thanks to media like TV, magazines, and the Internet, children are also bombarded with images of who they should be or why they may not be good enough...and sometimes it's hard to shut those voices out. Some of those messages are internalized and becomes how children speak to themselves. Those negative message can wreak havoc on a child's mood and behavior. POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS FOR KIDS Positive affirmations are specific affirming statements that can help combat negative thoughts by changing a child's perspective/outlook. When children have a positive outlook on life, they're better able to handle setbacks and they're better able to reject negative messages because their belief system will remind them of the good they have inside. Note: Many children are struggling with mental health issues. It's important to get them professional help to support their well-being when deemed necessary. While positive affirmations can be helpful, they are not a solution for issues that require more in-depth support. HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS REPEAT THE AFFIRMATION: encourage the child to repeat the affirmations on a consistent basis. THE RIGHT ATTITUDE: in the beginning the child may be reluctant, don't prod, allow the child to do it at their own pace. Eventually the positive words will begin to take over. CHOOSE A GOOD TIME: Anytime is a good time for positive affirmations. However, first thing in the morning, helps to start the child's day off right. Right before bed helps the child end their day on a high note. MAKE IT FUN: Do a dance, sway side to side, or simply repeat the words in a fun rhythmic pattern can add even more fun to doing affirmations. Check out the #JoolsTV video below to see just how fun affirmations can be. 15 Positive Affirmations to Repeat Every Day I AM COURAGEOUS I AM STRONG I AM HAPPY I AM LOVED I AM CONFIDENT I AM AWESOME I LOVE MYSELF I HAVE PURPOSE I AM A GOOD PERSON I CAN DO HARD THINGS I AM ENOUGH I AM A GOOD FRIEND I BELIEVE IN MYSELF I LOVE WHO I AM I AM SMART CHILDREN'S BOOKS CAN HELP, TOO Children's books help reinforce the positive messages we want children to embrace. In the post I Love ME! Inclusive Children's Books About Self-Acceptance and Loving Who You Are we share books that encourage and affirm children. Too often we see negative stories in news and other media about violence against Black people. In addition, many books that offer positive representation about Black people and history have been banned from some schools. To combat those messages and issues, our post listing Empowering Picture Books for Black History Month shares books every reader can relate to and appreciate. Finally, our bookshop offers a variety of diverse children's book lists that encourage the little readers from all walks of life. Use these resources to garner ideas for how you might use children's books to encourage and connect with the children in your life. NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER - From parents and actors Jazmyn Simon and Dulé Hill comes a picture book filled with beautiful, inspiring affirmations reminding kiddos of their infinite wonder. Perfect for children of any age! I am worthy. I am loved. I am enough. Every child, no matter their age, needs to know how loved they are and, more importantly, should love themselves. In this gorgeously illustrated book of affirmations, young readers are told how cherished, deserving, and gifted they are. In their tender picture book, actors Jazmyn Simon and Dulé Hill tell children about the magic of self-love and standing firm, regardless of outside voices and doubt. Children will feel their confidence grow as they repeat the encouraging words on the page, take in the warm illustrations, and learn to believe in themselves! GUIDED VIDEO AFFIRMATIONS Video Description: Affirmations are things we say to ourselves that shape our beliefs. When your child speaks the affirmations in this video over and over, he or she will begin to believe them. Once they believe, they will achieve!! So, say these affirmations every morning to set a positive tone for the day. JOOLS TV ANIMATED AFFIRMATION VIDEO This song was created to instill the importance of self-love and self-esteem! (JOOLS TV) Summary Positive affirmations can be incredibly beneficial for children's development and well-being. They promote a healthy self-image and boost self-esteem by instilling a sense of confidence and self-worth. They can help kids manage stress and anxiety by encouraging a positive mindset and reducing negative self-talk. And they foster a growth mindset, teaching children to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and resilience, ultimately setting them on a path to success and happiness. #positiveaffirmations #happychildren #mentalhealthforkids

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Children who learn to read early, learn to love reading Reading can have a huge impact on a child's life. Studies show that books in the home are the single biggest indicator of academic success - surpassing income, parents' education, family composition, and all other factors. That's why having access to books and making time to read is so important at every stage of life. 10 Powerful Benefits of Reading that Everyone Should Know Reading together helps families develop closer relationships with one another. Reading expands your vocabulary, which helps expand understanding and the ability to express oneself. Reading opens your mind to new people and places and helps to build empathy. Reading is relaxing and stress reducing. Reading helps flex critical thinking skill muscles as readers seek to figure out what happens next in the story. Reading teaches children social emotional skills as they read about diverse relationships, situations, and personalities. Reading enhances your imagination. Reading improves concentration and focus. Reading increases general knowledge about a variety of subjects. Reading creates a foundation for learning other subjects (math, science, etc.) One Final Thought One of the most overlooked benefits of reading is its ability to entertain! When you find the right book, reading is so much fun! If you're looking for your next great read, browse our booklists or our blog for diverse books for every age. While our mission is primarily focused on little readers, you'll find a few young adult and adult books on our lists too (Good Reads for Adults, Revolutionary Thoughts, Parenting). ...and remember to support local libraries by visiting, signing up for a library card, and borrowing a few good reads. Libraries rock and they're free! Happy reading!

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links "Lift Every Voice and Sing" is a powerful part of American history. It was written and composed by two influential brothers from Jacksonville, Florida named James Weldon Johnson and John Rosamond Johnson. The hymn, known as the Black National Anthem, is a rallying cry, a history lesson, and a pledge of unity. These children's books teach about the song's powerful legacy. Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us. Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us. In Jacksonville, Florida, two brothers, one of them the principal of a segregated, all-black school, wrote the song Lift Every Voice and Sing so his students could sing it for a tribute to Abraham Lincoln's birthday in 1900. From that moment on, the song has provided inspiration and solace for generations of Black families. Mothers and fathers passed it on to their children who sang it to their children and grandchildren. Known as the Black National Anthem, it has been sung during major moments of the Civil Rights Movement and at family gatherings and college graduations. Inspired by this song's enduring significance, Kelly Starling Lyons and Keith Mallett tell a story about the generations of families who gained hope and strength from the song's inspiring words. Learn more about it here. Download the Sing a Song activity guide that accompanies the book by Kelly Starling Lyons Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us. Written by James Weldon Johnson in 1900 to celebrate Abraham Lincoln's birthday, "Lift Every Voice and Sing" has become an anthem for African Americans in the struggle for equality. Bryan Collier's vibrant, stunning artwork offers an inspirational and rousing interpretation of this powerful song that continues to influence and shape new generations of children today. Learn more about it here. This selection of more than forty poems from a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance includes both uncompromising indictments of racial injustice and celebrations of the triumphs of African-Americans. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators. Learn more about it here. Lift Every Voice and Sing Lift every voice and sing Till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; Let our rejoicing rise High as the listening skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us, Facing the rising sun of our new day begun Let us march on till victory is won. Stony the road we trod, Bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, Have not our weary feet Come to the place for which our fathers sighed? We have come over a way that with tears has been watered, We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered, Out from the gloomy past, Till now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who has brought us thus far on the way; Thou who has by Thy might Led us into the light, Keep us forever in the path, we pray. Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee, Lest, our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee; Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand. True to our God, True to our native land. More Children's Books About Black History

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links The world recently lost one of the most riveting, magnetic, and inspiring men. Muhammad Ali gained notoriety by being "The Greatest" heavyweight boxer of all time, but his greatness reaches far beyond the boxing ring. Muhammad Ali's life is filled with valuable lessons just waiting to be absorbed by anyone willing to learn. Muhammad Ali was a proud and smart man. He thought beyond what was taught in school. He dug deep and questioned everything around him. His curiosity and thirst for knowledge led him to become confident in who he was as a Black man in America in a time when blacks were made to feel inferior due to laws that worked to hold them down. Muhammad Ali was very outspoken about race, religion, and American History even though doing so cost him money, fans, and plenty of public strife. He was a fighter inside the ring as a professional boxer and he was a fighter outside of the ring as voice against injustice. FAST FACTS Date of Birth: January 17, 1972 Name at Birth: Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr Place of Birth: Louisville, Kentucky Name Change: 1965 - Muhammad Ali Career: Professional Heavyweight Boxer Nickname: The Louisville Lip Retirement: 1981 Career record: 56-5, with 37 knockouts QUOTES "I am the Greatest" "If you even dream of beating me, you better wake up and apologize." 'Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee." "Don't count the days, make the days count." "The man who views the world at 50 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life." NOTABLE EVENTS: Started boxing at age 12 when his bike was stolen Gold medal winner 1960 Olympics (Rome) Name change to Muhammad Ali in 1965 after joining the Nation of Islam Stripped of his championship for refusing to fight in Vietnam War in 1967 Draft conviction overturned in 1971 Diagnosed with Parkinson's in 1984

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Muhammad Ali was an American professional boxer and activist. Nicknamed "The Greatest", he is regarded as one of the most significant sports figures of the 20th century and is frequently ranked as the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time. Muhammad Ali's quotes share valuable lessons children (and adults) can learn from still today. Click on the book covers below to learn more about the books featured. 1. KNOW YOUR HISTORY "I know where I'm going and I know the truth, and I don't have to be what you want me to be. I'm free to be what I want." ~ Muhammad Ali Knowing your history and the history of the world you live in empowers you to live in freedom. You are able to make informed choices and choose a path that propels you toward the life you want. 2. STAND UP FOR YOURSELF "They did what they thought was right, and I did what I thought was right." ~ Muhammad Ali In 1966 Muhammad Ali was drafted to fight in the Vietnam War. He refused to go and publicly announced that he was a conscientious objector. As a result he was stripped of his championship and charged with a felony punishable with 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Ali stood his ground and refused to go to war. In 1971, after several appeals, Ali's charge was unanimously overturned by the Supreme Court. It took courage and an understanding of the law for Ali to do what he did. Standing up for yourself isn't as simple as it may seem. You have to be thoughtful and knowledgeable to pick your battles wisely. ​3. STRIVE TO BE EDUCATED "Where is man's wealth? His wealth is in his knowledge." ~ Muhammad Ali Cars, houses, and other material things are nice to have, but those things pale in comparison to the value of education. Reading, writing, and arithmetic are important parts of education, but are not the only parts of education. Being able to think for yourself and discern truth from fiction is just as important. Without discernment, you are left at the mercy of others to explain things to you. The danger of blindly following someone else's analysis is that you can be lead into situations you would otherwise denounce. 4. SEEK CONTINUAL GROWTH "A man who views the world the same at fifty as he did when he was twenty, has wasted thirty years." ~ Muhammad Ali Education never ends. Even after you earn diplomas and degrees, there is still much for you to learn. Listen to the world around you. Ask questions so that with each day you become a little bit better than you were the day before. 5. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF "I am the greatest. I said that even before I knew I was." "If my mind can conceive it and my heart can believe it, then I can achieve it." ~ Muhammad Ali With hard work and commitment, you can become the best version of yourself possible. Stay positive and believe that you are capable of achieving your goals. 6. JUST LIVE "Don't count the days, make the days count." "Live everyday as if it were your last, because someday you're going to be right." ~Muhammad Ali Wallowing in self-pity or worrying about tomorrow is a waste of time. Live in the moment. Make the best of the time you have and keep moving forward.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links The White House recently announced that Malia Obama has decided to take a gap year before attending Harvard University. What exactly is a gap year and why has it become so popular in recent years? A gap year is a year taken by a student as a break from school. Gap years usually take place before or after college. After years of rigorous studies, students are often burnt out. Some people think that a gap year gives students a chance to decompress and reflect on the things they've learned over the years. Gap years have become more popular as many people focus more on finding their purpose and on making the world a better place than on finding success in terms of money. Harvard actually encourages students to take a gap year: "Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrollment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way—provided they do not enroll in a degree-granting program at another college. Deferrals for two-year obligatory military service are also granted. Each year, between 80 and 110 students defer their matriculation to the College." (From the Harvard website) Some parents worry that a gap year might set their student back, but students often end a gap year more refreshed and focused than ever. While a gap year can be a very positive experience, there are things that can be done to be sure students get the most out of their gap year. How to Plan a Successful Gap Year 1. CHOOSE YOUR WHY Understand why you want to take a gap year. Knowing your why makes it easier for you to choose the program that will best fulfill your needs. 2. APPLY TO COLLEGE Apply to college and request a deferment. This secures a spot for you at the college of your choice. This allows you to enjoy your gap year without worrying about what you will do after the year is over or having to scramble at the last minute to apply for colleges as your gap year comes to an end. 3. RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH Decide if you want to participate in a readymade gap year program or if you'd like to create a more individualized program for yourself. There are tons of programs and opportunities to choose from. Gap Year Fairs are a great place to get information and meet like-minded families. Gap Year Fairs Accredited Gap Year Programs Americorps TeenLife Gap Year Programs 4. MAKE A PLAN Gap years don't have to be costly, but they can be without proper planning. There are scholarships and grants available to help fund gap years. Consider things like living expenses, travel costs, and healthcare when planning your excursion. This article from US News is packed full of resources to help you plan your gap year: Try Scholarships to Help Pay for a Gap Year, Time Off From College. 5. BE REALISTIC Life is full of the unexpected! Things don't always go as planned, but there's usually a way to adjust and make the best of things. Remember your "why" and make the most of your gap year, it'll probably be one of the best memories of your life! YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY: Decide if a Gap Year Makes Sense for you Advantages of a Gap Year Why Your High School Senior Should Take a Gap Year Why are Gap Years More Common in Europe Than the US? Gap Year Stats #gapyear #MaliaObama #College #Harvard #GapYearBenefits

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Earth Day is an annual reminder to reflect on our impact on the planet and consider ways to contribute to its well-being. While it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of environmental issues facing our world, every small action counts, and children can play a significant role in protecting the environment. Teaching kids early and often about sustainability and encouraging eco-friendly habits from a young age not only benefits the planet but also instills valuable lessons that can last a lifetime. By using these twelve simple tips, our community can come together to protect the planet for future generations. 1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Teach children about the importance of reducing waste by reusing items whenever possible and recycling materials like paper, plastic, glass, and aluminum. Set up designated recycling bins at home and encourage them to sort their waste correctly. 2. Conserve Water: Encourage kids to turn off the tap while brushing their teeth, take shorter showers, and fix any leaks around the house. They can also help save water by watering plants with a watering can instead of using a hose. 3. Save Energy: Teach children to turn off lights, appliances, and electronics when they're not in use. You can also involve them in simple energy-saving practices like using natural light during the day and unplugging chargers when devices are fully charged. 4. Plant Trees: Planting trees is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change and support biodiversity. Get kids involved in tree-planting initiatives in your community or plant trees in your own backyard. It's a hands-on way for them to make a positive impact on the environment. 5. Create a Garden: Gardening not only teaches kids about the importance of plants but also provides them with a sense of responsibility and connection to nature. Help them plant a vegetable or herb garden and show them how to care for it without using harmful chemicals. 6. Use Eco-Friendly Transportation: Encourage walking, biking, or using public transportation instead of driving whenever possible. If you need to drive, carpooling with friends or family can help reduce carbon emissions. 7. Reduce Plastic Use: Plastic pollution is a significant environmental issue, but kids can help by reducing their use of single-use plastics like straws, bags, and utensils. Opt for reusable alternatives made from materials like stainless steel, glass, or bamboo. 8. Support Wildlife: Teach children about the importance of protecting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. You can set up bird feeders or create a butterfly garden to attract and support local wildlife in your area. 9. Practice Sustainable Eating: Encourage kids to eat more plant-based meals and reduce their consumption of meat and dairy products, which have a higher environmental impact. You can involve them in meal planning and cooking to make it a fun and educational experience. 10. Reduce Food Waste: Teach children about the importance of not wasting food and show them how to properly store leftovers. You can also compost food scraps to reduce methane emissions from landfills and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. 11. Learn About Environmental Issues: Educate kids about pressing environmental issues like climate change, deforestation, and pollution in an age-appropriate way. Watch documentaries, read books, and explore nature together to deepen their understanding of the world around them. 12. Be an Advocate: Encourage kids to speak up for the environment by writing letters to policymakers, participating in environmental clean-up events, or raising awareness in their schools and communities. Empowering them to be environmental advocates can inspire positive change on a larger scale. Find more books about protecting the planet in our bookshop: Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: Children's Books by Indigenous Authors to Add to Your Bookshelf Today Multicultural Holiday Children's Books that Celebrate Diverse Traditions Baby Love: The 7 Best Baby Board Books to Read Right Now Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Children's Books for Black Music Appreciation in our Bookshop Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links As the school year comes to close, most kids look forward to the break from academics and early morning wakeups. Kids do need time to decompress and to just be kids, but 2-3 months with limited opportunities to learn can sometimes affect academic success. Did you know: Most students lose about two months of grade level equivalency in mathematical computation skills over the summer months. Low-income students also lose more than two months in reading achievement, despite the fact that their middle-class peers make slight gains Children lose more than academic knowledge over the summer. Most children—particularly children at high risk of obesity—gain weight more rapidly when they are out of school during summer break via The National Summer Learning Association What is Summer Slide? Summer Slide or Brain Drain is when skills learned throughout the school year are forgotten during the summer months. When students return to school in the Fall, they struggle to regain the skills they need to succeed in the new year. Parents can help prevent Brain Drain. Here are simple ways you can ensure your child has opportunities to learn and grow, while also having fun during summer break: 1. TALK TO YOUR CHILD'S TEACHER NOW The school year is quickly coming to a close. This is the perfect time to talk to your child's teacher about your child's strengths and weaknesses. Ask teachers what your child needs to practice over the summer. Find out if there are any programs your child's teacher would suggest your child participate in. The teacher may be able to suggest materials (books) that your child could benefit from as well. 2. CONSIDER A CAMP Camps are an excellent way to expose your child to academic, physical, and social activities. Summer camps begin enrolling as early as April. You can find available camps in local magazines, newspapers, or even at your child's school. Camps offer music, cooking, sports, technology, and more. Pick the camp that works best for your budget, your child's interests, and your time. 3. FIND JOB-SHADOWING OPPORTUNITIES Job shadowing exposes children to different occupations which helps children decide what work they want to do in the future. Talk to a co-worker, friend, or family member about having your child shadow them at work. Many local businesses also allow students to shadow. Find opportunities in your child's current chosen occupation as well as other occupations. Now is the time for your child to explore. 4. RESEARCH ART AND CULTURE PROGRAMS As school priorities shift, many arts and music programs have been cut. Summertime is the perfect time to expose children to the arts. Many museums and art galleries offer discounts throughout the summer. Exposure to arts and culture helps build kids' imaginations and creativity. 5. WORK ON LIFE SKILLS As much as we hate to think about it, one day our babies are going to go out into the "real world". To make this event a little less scary for kids (and parents) we have to teach them how to take care of themselves. Jot down a few age-appropriate life skills you'd like your child to master over the summer. 6. GET A LIBRARY CARD Read, read, read and it doesn't have to cost you a dime. Libraries are one of the most inexpensive outings your family can take. Many libraries offer free summer reading programs that come with fun incentives for reading. Libraries also offer book clubs, teen clubs, and even free camps. 7. CHOOSE A COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT Teach your child the importance of giving back. When kids participate in community service, they learn new skills, responsibility, and confidence in their abilities to help others. Choose age appropriate projects such as collecting canned goods, building a home, or cleaning up a local neighborhood. 8. MAKE IT FUN Find balance in each if the activities you choose. Be careful not to over schedule your summer. Choose activities that your child will enjoy. With a little research and a lot of preparation, you can stop the summer slide, by offering fun and engaging opportunities for learning.