Why I love Five in a Row. Part Two.

Last year, I wrote a post telling you why our family loves Five in a Row by Jane Claire Lambert. It is such a perfect go-to book — whether you homeschool or not.

Today, I’m going to chat with you about Before Five in a Row. In it you choose a well-loved child’s book — from the 35 recommendations listed in the front — and read the books for five days in a row. And then within the book are recommendations for activities to enhance learning. Science, Art, Mathematics, Language, Bible and more.

When I was given the opportunity to review Before Five in a Row and I was thrilled. I didn’t really have a “curriculum” option for Elijah yet and this filled a need. Plus, I love that it is based on living books — not textbooks and workbooks. Elijah loves it and calls it his “school-time”. We use this book as a supplement and addition to Elijah’s regular studies. More often than no one of his sisters will choose a book from it and work with him during their Elijah reading time.

Some examples of what we did:

We read the book Blueberries for Sal (what a fave? who doesn’t love that book) and completed the activities that go along with it. Counting as we add “blueberries” to a pail. Talking about art and the differences in shading. Making our own blueberry art project.

In the book Runaway Bunny we had opportunities to talk about the difference between black and white pictures and color. About a mother’s love. We looked for how the artist hid the bunny in the pages.

This preschool book I would recommend as a staple in any home. It takes reading time and expands it even further. You’re not obligated to do every single activity, but it provides an excellent framework for of opportunities to to encourage learning — gently — with those 2-4 year olds. It’s a go to when it’s 10 am and you need to keep them busy!

I received a copy of Before Five in a Row for an honest review. If you are interested in purchasing your own copy of it for $35 click HERE. To read other reviews click HERE. I received this book to review while I was a member of the tos crew. I did not receive any other compensation and all opinions are my own.