ABC Ready for School

June 4, 2018
New author Delaney draws on her background as an occupational therapist in this picture book, which uses the alphabet to introduce a series of social and emotional learning skills designed to prepare young children for kindergarten. Each page highlights a letter within a key word or phrase, followed by a description of how a child might experience the concept, and Coleman’s expansive cast of diverse children demonstrate it in action. (“Play./ You will play during your days at school./ You will use your imagination and pretend./ When you play games, you can help your team”). Other examples include “Move past mistakes,” “Be yourself... and be honest,” and “Express yourself.” Activities for young readers, as well as resources and information for caregivers, are included in the final pages. The blend of confident voice and positive tone renders this a pleasant primer. Ages 3–6.

August 1, 2018

PreS-K-This alphabet book features a wide range of social skills needed for starting school. The age-appropriate concepts, such as "Do your best," "Encourage others," and "Follow the rules" are explained in a kid-friendly manner and include what to expect in the classroom and on the playground, and how to handle challenges. Readers are shown many fun aspects of school such as making new friends, meeting teachers, playing during recess, and listening to stories. Notes for adults at the end present ideas for preparing children for school and outline ways to use the book. With a letter of the alphabet at the top of every page, young children can practice their letter recognition. The gentle, muted digital illustrations are flat, but support the text with images of making friends, respecting others, and following directions. The illustrations include people from many backgrounds and with differing abilities, and serve as a mirror for a wide variety of readers. VERDICT A great resource to help make the transition to school more manageable; perfect for one-on-one sharing and lessons on social skills.-Lauren White, Wake County Public Libraries, NC

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