Great Read Alouds: Families in all shapes & sizes

We know families come in all shapes and sizes. One or two parents. Parents living together and those separated by different homes or even miles. In some families grandparents are raising children. Some families have different cultures or religious beliefs.

Introducing your child to "new" family members

For your little one, the holidays may be the first time they have ever met a particular family member(s). This can be particularly stressful if your child is shy. If your child is uncomfortable, assure them it is okay to not give hugs and kisses, but politeness is important. Fist bumps and high fives (even air fist bumps and high fives) are okay. Just saying hi and good bye is good too. Support your child's comfort level.

Playing games or doing crafts can help ease everyone together. Share a dish or dessert that has been in the family "forever." Have your child help you prepare it and talk about family members they may not have met. It's a great way to create memories and ease kids into meeting family members who are new to them.

Fanatastic books about families

Here are several of my favorite read alouds about families along with a list of craft books and cookbooks.

Around the Table That Grandad Built written by Melanie Heuiser Hill & illustrated by Jamie Kim

Family and friends gather around a table granddad built that is now full of memories from long ago. Mom sewed the napkins on the table. Gran made the bread. Everyone is making memories at family gatherings.

Many Ways to Be a Family by Christy Peterson

This book highlights that all families are unique and are made up of people who love and care for each other.

The Family Book by Todd Parr

This story shares a variety of families that are all alike in some ways. Each family is special no matter what.

A Family Like Ours written by Frank Murphy & Alice Lee, illustrated by Kayla Harren

A beautiful story that shows how no two families are alike. All families are unique in their own ways.