Pinkalicious is my homegirl.
We’ve totally become BFFs over the past year. How could we not after spending almost every night hanging out in my little girl’s room before bed? Purplicious has tried to weasel her way in, but our hearts belong to you, my friend.
For any parent whose kids love to be read to, children’s book characters have become like a second family, not only entertaining our little ones, but educating them as well. For this reason, I am constantly on the lookout for great books, so I asked three experts to share with me by e-mail – what books should every toddler have on his or her bookshelf?
Without further ado, here are the top 10.
Rene' Myers, children's librarian
Jennifer Franklin, kindergarten teacher, Fox C-6 School District
Vicki Erwin, Main Street Books, St. Charles
Erwin also suggested classics like Good Night Moon, Runaway Bunny and Winnie the Pooh. “These are the ones I sell over and over, and/or parents ask for.”
Me? Since Myers stole my Bear choice, I’ll stick with Oh! The Places You'll Go! by Dr. Suess. Inspiring to both kids and grownups, it teaches you life will have its ups and downs, but be strong in whatever you do. Can bring me to tears sometimes when I’m feeling particularly hormonal.
So what books do you look for when you visit your library or hit the bookstore?
By Nicole Plegge, lifestyle blogger for SmartParenting
Metro East mom Nicole Plegge has written for STL Parent for more than 12 years. Besides working as a freelance writer & public relations specialist, and raising two daughters and a husband, Nicole's greatest achievements are finding her misplaced car keys each day and managing to leave the house in a stain-free shirt. Her biggest regret is never being accepted to the Eastland School for Girls. Follow Nicole on Twitter @STLWriterinIL
At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!
Bring your babies and toddlers to this free story time at the Missouri History Museum.
Storytelling in the Museum is an in-person storytelling event happening at 10:30 a.m. at the Missouri History Museum. This event, perfect for the preschool set, features engaging stories with themes like Mardi Gras, geology, Black History Month, Groundhog Day and more. Storytelling in the Museum is free.
Sensory Friendly Storytime at the APA includes storytime and pet interaction for the littlest learners with accommodations for children who thrive in a calm setting.
Dinoroarus is back for a limited time at the Saint Louis Zoo. This engaging attraction for all ages features 14 groupings of animatronic and stationary dinosaurs - colorful, prehistoric creatures that move realistically, some roaring and spiting or placidly munching on lush vegetation.