Book Review: Elmo’s Countdown to Christmas (Sesame Street)
As the holiday season rolls around, I find myself lost in a whirlwind of to-do lists and tiny (yet monumental) moments shared with my little ones. Just last night, amidst the chaos of dinner and bedtime routines, I was desperately seeking a way to connect with my preschoolers. Enter Elmo’s Countdown to Christmas. What better way to calm the chaos than with a festive lift-the-flap book featuring our beloved red monster?
Written by the talented folks behind Sesame Street, this delightful board book is all about counting down those magical days to Christmas with Elmo and his friends. From the opening page, I was greeted by colorful illustrations that burst with holiday cheer. Right away, my kids were captivated. Even my two-year-old, who is usually on the move, stopped to point at all the familiar faces: Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and, of course, Elmo.
What We Loved
The book unfolds over 12 pages, each one filled with more than 30 flaps just waiting to be lifted. Honestly, it felt like we were on a treasure hunt together! Each flap revealed a new surprise—whether it was Elmo decorating a tree, Oscar grumpily celebrating, or a hidden kitty nestled amongst the holiday décor. My five-year-old, ever the curious detective, loved searching for that sneaky cat. “Mom! Look! There she is!” he would squeal with delight, and honestly, my heart melted with each cheer.
The illustrations are vibrant, filled with that signature Sesame Street charm, making this lift-the-flap book a feast for the eyes. My daughter particularly enjoyed the way the flaps matched the pictures behind them. It felt like a little magic trick that kept her engaged page after page. The writing is simple and rhythmic, creating a pleasing read-aloud experience that kept both kids’ attention. They chimed in happily, counting as we flipped each flap.
Sweet Memories
One night, as we cozied up with our soft blankets and snuggled together in bed, something beautiful happened. My little boy took the lead and started to mimic Elmo’s voice while he read aloud the repetitive phrases. His enthusiasm was infectious, and soon, my daughter joined in, mimicking her brother’s silly tones. Just like that, a typical bedtime turned into a hilarious and joyous reading session that I’ll cherish forever.
Of course, as any mom knows, not every night is smooth sailing. I did find myself keeping a close eye on the flaps, as my littlest is the kind inclined to give them a good tug. But thankfully, the book is well-made, sturdy enough to withstand those toddler explorations (though I still winced a little when I heard that initial tear).
Final Thoughts
Overall, Elmo’s Countdown to Christmas has become a delightful staple in our home, perfect for children ages 2 to 5. If your kids adore Sesame Street, this book is a golden pick. It invites laughter, connection, and a sprinkle of magic during the holiday season.
I highly recommend it for a cozy bedtime read or as a sweet gift for little ones who need a bit more holiday cheer in their lives. There’s something undeniably special about sharing these moments with my kids, and Elmo’s Countdown to Christmas has turned into a charming family favorite that makes our countdown to Christmas feel all the more exciting. So grab a cozy blanket, settle in, and enjoy the countdown!🌟🎄
Dive into holiday fun with Elmo’s Countdown to Christmas! >>
