The Itty-Bitty Bookworm: A Literature-based Preschool Curriculum
Tuesday, May 19, 2009 Posted by Felicia
While I was blog surfing a couple of weeks ago I came across the most adorable blog that lead me to a fantastic website! The Itty-Bitty Bookworm is a literature based preschool curriculum for ages 18 months-5 years. What I love about this website is that Tara has it completely outlined for you on CD. You can have a quality curriculum at home that is already organized and ready to go! What a great preparation for Kindergarten! Check out the FREE resources!I had to find out more about The Itty-Bitty Bookworm and the wonderful mom behind it! Check out the Interview with this amazing teacher!
1. Tell Go Graham Go readers a little bit about yourself and your family I am a married mother of three. My children are 8, 6, and 3. I was born and raised in Charleston, SC, but have been living in Philadelphia for the past year. My background is in early childhood education. I have been a teacher, preschool director, and community college instructor. I currently own and operate The Itty-Bitty Bookworm and “mommy school” my three year old son.
2. How did The Itty-Bitty Bookworm come about? While operating an in-home preschool
, I was looking for a curriculum to use. Being a busy mom of three, I wanted something that would not require a lot of planning time. I tried several different curricula, but was not satisfied with what I was finding. When I taught preschool in the public schools I had used a literature-based approach and found it to be very effective. Unfortunately, I could not find this type of curriculum (that was affordable) to purchase. I was talking about this to a close friend and jokingly said “Ha, I should just write my own and sell it!” She took me seriously and insisted that I should consider it. Needless to say, I took her advice and here we are two years later!3. What are three of the most important tips you could give parents who are trying to raise "little bookworms"? 1. When choosing books for your children ~ follow their interests. 2. Be a good role model; let your children see that you enjoy reading. 3. Make time for a read aloud each and every day. Not only does this build pre-reading skills, but is also a wonderful way to bond with your child.
4. When should a parent start The Itty-Bitty Bookworm program? We have two curriculum programs: The Bailey Curriculum is designed for 18-36 month olds. The Bo Curriculum is designed for 3-5 years olds. It is important for parents to remember that our curriculum is used by preschools, as well. For this reason, we have many activities planned for each day. However, for parents, we suggest that you read through the lesson plans and select the activities that best fit the needs of your particular child. Felicia at My Family Life does a wonderful job adapting activities for her son. Check out her blog.
5. Anything else you would like to share with Go Graham Go readers? I love getting to know and helping my customers. Therefore, feel free to contact me with your questions and comments. It is fun to see children using our curricula, so if you have any pics please send those, as well.
If you enjoy what you see check out the giveaway for the Year 1 Curriculum on CD! You can choose from the Baily (18-36 months) or Bo (3-5 years) curriculum.
May 19, 2009 12:51 AM
Sounds pretty good!
It's funny, I was thinking about posting a little something about the curriculum we use after I posted my MSM today... Then I saw your post here! Great minds think alike!! =)
May 19, 2009 7:39 AM
That does sound great. I would love to have something designed to help teach my son who is 22 mos. He loves to learn and is constantly asking questions about everything. I have a pre school curriculum that I use with my 3 year old but this one sounds like something worth checking out. Thanks for sharing the interview!
May 20, 2009 4:09 AM
Very interesting personal info thanks for sharing.
October 29, 2010 2:58 AM
Great information. Thanks for sharing it.preschool