Clever Little Bear

Right now Emily's favorite thing to do is to read books. Sit down within 5 feet of in the same room as her and she will insist you read to her. She'll either go to the reading chair with a book and grunt imploringly (and insistently) to come and read. Or she'll hold a book and streeeetch her arms with the book toward you. (I am convinced this is meant to draw you toward her with the magnetism of the book and the force of her considerable charm.) Or she'll bring a book to you and drop it in your lap with a sweet and inquiring look. How can anyone resist this? 

Here's one we've been reading often: Number One, Tickle Your Tum by John Prater. It's a counting/rhyming book that is perfect for the toddler who is starting to mimic. The picture on "Number eight stand up straight" reminds me of Emily when she first started to stand. The last page is her favorite because big bear gives clever little bear a hug. She points at this and hugs herself. This would be a great choice for even older toddlers, since there are actions to imitate, like walking in a line, and jumping. The illustrations are simple and appealing. We are looking forward to finding other Baby Bear Books by Prater.