September 2011 Reading List

31. The Complete Resource Book for Infants by Pamela Byrne Shiller
This book had very simple activities, some common sense, but a few gems if you flipped though.

32. Creative Play for Your Baby by Christopher Clouder
A very basic introduction to the Steiner/Waldorf method of education/child development. This book also had some instructions for simple handmade toys. I would love to make the time to make Cannon some things from felt and wood.  If you're interested in making some activities for your child by hand I'd start here. If you're looking for simple activities to spur creativity this is your book.

33. Great Books for Babies and Toddlers by Kathleen Odean
A great resource and anthology for more ideas of books to read with Cannon. Divides books into nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs as well as picture books. Not my absolute favorite resource, but definitely gives you more ideas!

34. Montessori At Home by Heidi Anne Spietz
This was a very basic introduction to Montessori with activities for 3, 4 and 5 years to prepare them for reading, writing and kindergarten. I thought the lesson plans were a little disorganized (or not presented in a very easy-to-follow manner) and the book had quite a few typos. But, if you're looking for a simple Montessori preschool curriculum to follow you might check this out. I think there's got to be a better introduction to the Montessori philosophy and a better guide to a Montessori home education out there.

35. One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp
What could I possibly say about this book that would do it justice? I started out reading this book straight through and finally slowed down. It became part of my quiet time every morning: read a few pages, read the scriptures she referenced and then journal, journal, journal.

This is a beautiful writing on how God loves His children and how one woman choose to see His gifts of love to her.