Can you believe it’s December already? I can’t either! After the recent calamities in the country, I was not quite sure how to go back to “normal”. Do we set up the Christmas tree already? Will it be insensitive to post our Advent activities over social media? Is it still proper to celebrate when people lost loved ones and homes? While I am sure that most of you are feeling that way too, I am convinced that it is all the more important to step back this season and bask in the love and joy that Jesus’ birth brings. This I realized after reading the blog of our friend and fellow homeschool mom and author, Theresa Dumadag.
Gift of Love and Wonder
Celebrating and gift-giving definitely need not be extravagant. And because we know how traffic literally paralyzes the city in December, let us help you with these gift recommendations for the children in your lives. Give the gift of love and wonder this Christmas with these simple but meaningful presents from The Learning Basket Shop.
1. The Gift of Creativity
MoMA Art My Museum- P200
Just recently, I read this article entitled “Art Makes You Smart.” It says that there are research-based studies that show how art and exposure to art, by visiting museums and galleries, have a great effect on children’s critical thinking skills, among others. This creative art pack by the Museum of Modern Art includes full-color reproductions of masterpieces that you can appreciate and enjoy any time. It also has activities that will encourage your young artists to create their own masterpieces. As Pablo Picasso said, “All children are born artists. The problem is how to remain one when he grows up.”
2. The Gift of Imagination
Taro Gomi doodle books – P350 – P400 (search keyword: taro gomi)
Let your children’s imagination run wild with hundreds of pages of unfinished pictures and inspiring prompts that will stretch any child’s imagination. Created by renowned children’s books illustrator Taro Gomi. For kids ages 3-99.
A “finished” page from my 3-year-old’s Animal Doodles Placemats
3. The Gift of Family
Snuggle Wuggle Wee – P250
Finally, a Filipino-published book about breastfeeding and family bonding! This book is perfect for new big sisters (Ate) or for those who are about to become one.
4. The Gift of Security
The Kissing Hand Book and CD Set – P200
The first day in a new school is always a scary experience for children. Read about what a mother raccoon does to ease her little one’s anxieties in this classic by Audrey Penn. This book will provide understanding to kids who are anxious about being separated from their parents, even for just a day. The CD includes a reading of the story (with and without page cues) and a song by the author.
5. The Gift of Tradition
Tahanan Books – from P100 up (or filter to Philippine Books at the right side of the shop page)
Mariel and I are always gushing over books by Tahanan! We truly, honestly believe that they have the best children’s books in the country. Consider the following in your gift giving list: Antukin, Alpabetong Filipino, the bilingual Greek Mythology series, the I Like Myself Series (Tubble Wubble, Squirt Magert, Maya-Maya Jumbolaya), The Best of Lola Basyang, and the collection of Filipino folktales. These are sure to be enjoyed by children of various ages!
6. The Gift of Virtue
Sophie’s Stuff – P300
Written by a Filipino homeschooling mom, this is a perfect book about not accumulating “stuff” and teaches children how to share with others.
7. The Gift of Choice
The Learning Basket Gift Certificates – P300, P500, P800, P1000 (search keyword: gift certificate)
Give the gift of choice with the Learning Basket Gift Certificate. Encourage the children to choose from among our pre-selected classics and award-winning books. Several denominations available to suit any budget.
May you all have a blessed Christmas!
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Exploring Art, Shadows, and Manners with “If Jesus Came to My House”