Recommended Age: Preschool to First Grade
Return to the Jingle Jangle Jungle in Nick Bland’s book, The Very Brave Bear. A rhythmic picture book about a bear and a buffalo named Boris who strike up a friendship after they battle to determine who is the bravest. Performing seriously silly tests that require an act of bravado. From balancing like a butterfly on a wobbly log to tumbling down a hill, the bear and Boris will have your child finding their own courage and giggling along the way. Each page is full of bright illustrations and silly details. The duo will win your hearts as you begin to root for them as they try new things and discover just how brave they are, and also just how awesome it is to have a friend.
With the new school year, this quick read will be a perfect addition for preschool to first grade. Trying new things can be just as intimidating to our little ones as it was for this big furry bear. This can open a doorway of conversation for you to have about how to be both brave and friendly. Two other book recommendations for the beginning of school or themes of bravery I have for you are; The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson and The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi. Both picture book options and recommended for ages 6 and above, they will continue to inspire your new student to try new things, be empowered when things don’t go as planned and to be brave.
Amanda is a preschool teacher, mother and avid Central Park picnicker. She values community and is an advocate for families in the foster care system. One day she hopes to publish a children's book of her own. In the meantime, you can follow her Instagram, Enchanted Literacy, which encourages imagination and passion for reading.
