The holidays are coming and I thought I'd share some great books for "older" kids. I have older in quotations because I mean the 5-7 year old crowd, ones that still believe in all the magic but are old enough to learn some of the deeper meanings. These three books are all great to learn more about each of these holiday traditions.

It's Kwanzaa Time by Linda and Clay Goss is such a great resource for this holiday. I am not terribly familiar with Kwanzaa but after reading this book I am both familiar and full of awe for this African American celebration. I would not read this whole book to a child in one sitting but rather use it as a story book to refer back to during the holiday. Even if you do not celebrate Kwanzaa the stories included in this book are worth reading to anyone, any time of year.

A Confused Hanukkah by Jon Koons is a charming tale of one very silly village. If you are familiar with the old tales of the Village of Fools or Village of Idiots this book will be somewhat familiar, however in this take the village is very confused about how to celebrate Hanukkah. It's great because they get it confused then after the Rabbi returns he sets them straight and explains why they have the traditions they do. Very cute and informative book.

A Clever Beatrice Christmas by Margaret Willey is another great book that not only entertains but teaches about various Christmas traditions. This book is set in Quebec and I love the traditions including midnight mass, decorating the tree and of course Santa Claus. There are some that may be new to you and reading this book will give you a chance to ask your children what your family traditions are if you celebrate Christmas.

Thanksgiving is almost here and these are some of the craft ideas I wish I had thought of, well one I did but the others had me saying " Why didn't I think of that?" you'll love them!

I love this Pet Rock Turkey from Let's Explore!

This pilgrim paper bag puppet from Ziggity Zoom is so cute! [more]

Crafts are fun but letting your child loose with nothing but some shapes and a glue stick is a great way to teach shapes and have a great open ended art activity.

1. Gather your materials. You will need some scrap construction paper , one piece of black construction paper , scissors and glue.
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The fall is a fun time to be outside with your children , they can pick up leaves, see the colors changing and run around so everyone sleeps better at night! This craft is fun and easy to do with things that we all associate with the fall, gourds and changing of the leaves.

1. Gather your materials. You will need some red, yellow and green paint, a cereal box ( any box will do), some light colored construction paper, scissors, and 1 or 2 gourds. [more]

Thanksgiving is coming up fast and so often gets overshadowed by Halloween and Christmas. I love Thanksgiving because my son was born just as most of you were finishing up your pumpkin pie in 2006. So I love to make Thanksgiving crafts .

1. Gather your materials. You will need a piece of brown construction paper, some yellow, orange and red tissue paper, a marker, scissors and glue. [more]