Elements to consider when writing (or selecting picture books to read aloud):
·
story
so light, words seem to float
·
lyrical,
poetic
·
rhythm,
beat
·
some
internal/end rhyme, alliteration, repetition
·
perspective/“I,
me, baby”
·
tone/avoid
contractions, but don’t “talk” down
·
satisfying
twist, end with a smile
·
whimsical
·
flow/page-turns
Artistic
decisions in the range of picture books to read aloud:
·
striking
color use
·
distinctive
art styles
·
white
space and color choices
·
photo-illustration
·
layout/flow
Early literacy points to reflect on when writing/reading for/to the youngest readers:
·
Is
it developmentally appropriate—length, word choice, pace, clear and simple?
·
Is
the content age-appropriate?
·
Is
the subject appropriate to engage individual children, inclusive messages?
·
Is
there room for imagination and a playful (pointing, acting out, repeating
words) exchange between child and person reading?
·
Does
the story have any of following qualities—whimsical, nonsensical, lyrical,
engaging, connect with the family/home/child himself/herself, early
learning concepts, early socialization concepts, universal theme?
Sample
Writing Prompt:
Write
one to three lyrical sentences suitable for a two to three-year old. Break
sentences into short lines that might appear on a page. Consider the elements
we discussed. Revise. Is writing for the youngest reader a challenge?
