November top 5 for under 5 – 2023

We invite you to check out this month’s PPL Youth Services recommendations for activities, resources and new books in the library collection for children up to five years old and their families.

Rock Your Mocs by Laurel Goodluck and Madelyn Goodnight

In this happy, vibrant picture book tribute to Rock Your Mocs Day, observed yearly on November 15 as part of National Native American Heritage Month, author Laurel Goodluck (Mandan, Hidatsa, and Tsimshian) and artist Madelyn Goodnight (Chickasaw) celebrate the joy and power of wearing moccasins – and the Native pride that comes with them. Also be sure to check out more picture books included in this selection of books for children of all ages that highlight the Native American experience, Native American storytellers, and Native American history and culture. 

Annual Tree Lighting in Palmer Square

Come kick off the holiday season on the Green at Palmer Square in Princeton and watch as the town lights all 32,000 lights atop the square’s 65-foot-tall Norwegian Spruce. This annual festive event will also feature traditional musical performances and a whole lot of holiday fun, including keeping an eye out for Santa. You never know where he might pop up! Friday, November 24, at 5 p.m.

Tinkergarten at Herrontown Woods

The Friends of Herrontown Woods and Nature Play, NJ are offering outdoor Tinkergarten classes designed for children 1.5-8 years old and their caregivers. Classes meet at the outdoor classroom near the Veblen House in Herrontown Woods on select Sundays from 3 – 4 p.m. Participants engage in open-ended, child-led exploration with irresistible invitations to play, using the Tinkergarten curriculum. Each class combines early learning science with timeless wisdom about nature and childhood. Classes are donation-based and benefit The Friends of Herrontown Woods. Registration is required. On Sunday, November 5, participants are invited to take part in the annual Tinkergarten Lantern Walk, a magical tradition, designed to help kids and grown-ups alike welcome the darkness of winter and embrace this natural change with joy.

Sometimes I Cry by Jess Townes and Daniel Miyares

We all cry sometimes, for all sorts of reasons and to express all sorts of emotions. This poignant new picture book offers a gentle and necessary affirmation of the emotional complexity of growing up. Just be sure to grab a tissue box when you share this book with your little one–it’s a tear-jerker (in a beautiful way)! 

Pass the Baby by Susanna Reich and Raúl Colón

Just in time for the holidays when family and friends gather for meals together, comes this delightful new picture book featuring a lively baby being passed around the table to relatives and friends. The scenario will ring true for anyone who attempts a large gathering at the table with a boisterous toddler.

Photo by Caroline Hernandez on Unsplash

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