The MomSpeak

Thanks to a bunch of sick kids and way too many work deadlines to count, I’m still holiday shopping for a few friends and their kids. And while I generally do everything online, I’ve hit the point where shipping something will now cost me my first born child. Not to fret, however, because sometimes the simplest gift, like a book, can be the best.

That being said, a wrapped up book or one stuffed in a gift bag can sometimes look a little chinsy. So along with giving some of my favorite books, all of which I can grab at my local bookseller, I’m adding a little something extra that’s inspired by the words themselves to make it personal and a bit more special.

For the little one

Kit Allen’s adorable “Long John’s” board book is a fave in our house. Pair it with a fun pajama set from Old Navy.

For the princess obsessed preschooler

We always get a hearty chuckle after readinng Robert Munsch’s “Paper Bag Princess.” Pair it with a tiara and a wand.

For the boy who loves dinosaurs

Aidan Potts’ “Uneversaurus” will get send that dino-lover back to the Jurassic era. Pair it with a remote control T-rex from Discovery Toys (or snag something fun at your local toy shop)

For the geeky tween girl

“The Daring Book for Girls” is a book all girls should have on their bookshelf. Pair it with a Melissa and Doug’s Jacks Game. Don’t worry! The book will teach them how to play.

For the mom who desperately needs a break (and a laugh)

We love “Sleep is for the Weak,” (and not because we’re in it) a compilation of humorous and heart wrenching mom blogger essays. Pair it with a yummy lavender candle to help her get some zzzzz’s.

For the lone cool stay-at-home-dad in your playgroup

Grab him a copy of Robert Wilder’s “Daddy Needs a Drink.” Pair it with a bottle of Jack, obviously.