Cross-Dressing Crocs

"OH BILLY!
Don’t be SILLY!
There’s no croc around the block!”
 
Hello Inspiring Humans!

This week's read-aloud poem is about a little boy named Billy who is desperately trying to convince his mum that there’s a cross-dressing, old-lady-eating crocodile hiding out at number four. His mum doesn’t take his warnings seriously and gets the shock of her life when she goes to investigate his claims.
 
Themes of open-mindedness and attentive listening can be explored by analyzing the dialogue between Billy and his mother. It’s an opportunity to discuss how important it is to pay careful attention to what others have to say — listening could save you from becoming a crocodile’s dinner!
 
"What we teach children to love and desire will always outweigh what we make them learn”
- Amazing quote that I could not find a reference for
 
We read aloud to and with our children every day to teach them motivation for reading. Stickers and stamps and prizes for daily reading teach our children that they have to do a chore to get something good. We need to guide them to the idea that reading is its own reward and it’s something to celebrate — definitely not a chore!
 
What happens when children get to old for stickers to inspire them to read anymore? By reading with them you give them your time and attention and connection that builds the strong, mental foundations for good grownups. 
 
Your children will not remember the stickers and stamps and prizes you give them for reading when they’re old and grey. They will remember you for taking the time to read to them and with them every single day. I promise.
 
Have a fabulous week and remember; reading is its own reward. 
-Sean