Discovering Big Words for Little People: A Bedtime Favorite
Ah, bedtime reading—my favorite time to snuggle up with my little ones after a day filled with chaos. It’s that sweet moment when we turn down the lights, settle under the covers, and lose ourselves in the pages of a book. Recently, I stumbled upon Big Words for Little People by Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell, and let me tell you, it was like uncovering a hidden gem amidst my cluttered bookshelf.
At first, it was the title that caught my eye. As a mom who is constantly juggling toddler tantrums and preschooler questions, I thought maybe, just maybe, a book about big words could lend a hint of fun while teaching essential communication skills to my kiddos. I mean, who wouldn’t want to add “cooperate” and “considerate” to the family vocabulary?
In this delightful picture book, Curtis and Cornell present us with a large, rambunctious family that celebrates the power of language. The charming characters invite young readers—like my curious three-year-old and chatty five-year-old—to dive into the world of “big words” that they often hear but don’t quite understand. Every page bursts with joyful energy, as the family models the use of these words in their everyday life. The message is clear: though the kids may be small, their ability to express themselves with “big words” is limitless!
The illustrations by Laura Cornell are vibrant and engaging; they perfectly complement the lively narrative and instantly draw my kids in. We encountered a spread highlighting the word “patience,” and my sons erupted into giggles at the sight of the characters waiting for their turn to jump into a pool. It led to a mini conversation about the times they’ve had to be patient—a perfect segue into meaningful life lessons!
What really amazed me was how this book opened the door to a discussion about feelings. My son pointed out, “Mom, I want to be considerate!” And just like that, we were off discussing what it means to consider other people’s feelings and how words can both hurt and heal. I can’t express how rewarding it was to witness this conversation flourish from such a simple story.
A favorite line of ours came when the text cheerfully proclaimed, “Although you are small, you can use big words too!” It resonated deeply with my kids, who often feel overwhelmed in a world that’s so big and sometimes confusing. It was a lovely reminder that they have the power to voice their thoughts and feelings, regardless of their size.
I wholeheartedly recommend Big Words for Little People for children ages 3 to 7—especially those free-spirited little ones who are blossoming into their own personalities. This isn’t just a one-time read; it’s definitely becoming a staple in our bedtime rotation. Each night, as I tuck them in with this book, I’m reminded of the importance of words—both big and small—in shaping our little family’s heart and soul.
This book has quickly earned a special place in our home, and I hope it finds the same warmth in yours. Happy reading, friends! 💕
Discover the joy of learning with Big Words for Little People! >>
