Critical thinking | VIVIAN KIRKFIELD

Do you remember the old Wrigley’s commercial – two, two, two mints in one? Two beautiful young women, obviously twins, represented the combination of flavors – spearmint and peppermint – found in the popular chewing gum.

Today, for Perfect Picture Book Friday, I’m showcasing a pair of books by Sarah Mounsey. I had the pleasure of meeting the lovely author of this dynamic duo at the 2013 AFCC in Singapore.

Purple Paw Prints and Paw Prints on the Magic Sofa

Written by Sarah Mounsey

Illustrated by Jade Fang

Publisher: Brindal Books (2012 and 2013)

Opening lines: Paw Prints: “Eddie knew as soon as he finished painting Oscar purple that it was a big mistake!”

Paw Prints on the Magic Sofa: “Eddie, stop jumping on my brand new sofa!” said Mum for the gazillionth time. “And get the dog off there too!” But when William came to play, strange Continue reading →

What do you get when you give two seven-year olds some construction paper, markers, scissors and tape?

You get the most amazing creations! And you get happy kids!

I encourage parents to keep simple arts and crafts supplies on hand. Paper, scissors, markers and glue are imagination enablers. Kids can spend hours, happily engaged in expressing their creativity, exercising their problem solving and critical thinking skills.

Last week, my son and his family stopped by.

Knowing that my grandchildren LOVE making things, I had put a few arts and crafts supplies on the dining room table. After we visited for a while, I asked the kids if they wanted to sit down and use the materials.

Before I had even finished the sentence Continue reading →