Halloween may provide an ideal window, but thereās really not a bad time for Laura Numeroffās book,Ā Ā TenĀ Step Guide to Living with Your Monster.Ā Ā From the same author who wrote the āIf You Give aā¦ā series, this whimsical spin on monsters explains how one should select and care for a new pet monster.Ā Ā Itās hard to hang on to anyĀ fear of monsters as this storyĀ shows them playing the banjo, blowing bubbles, and drinking from the bathtub!
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I wrote about this book last year, explaining how to use it to create a whole language journaling activity.Ā This year, combine that writing activity with a sculpture!Ā Using classic playdough and add-ons like craft eyes, toothpicks, beads, and pipe cleaners, children canĀ bring their monstrous creatures to life, supporting their creativity and small motor skills simultaneously!Ā Strengthen language skills and math concepts as well by talking about these monsters as theyāre being built, introducing descriptive words, counting and comparing accessories as theyāre added, and getting your children to share their ideasĀ about what these monsters might be like.
Finish it off with the whole language activity, recording your childās dictations withĀ the monsterās name and story, and youāve got yourself one enjoyable, high-powered, and open-endedĀ learning activity!Ā
Enjoy your pet monsters!
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