Webkinz

There seems to be a "hot" trend starting with Webkinz. Basically it is an online virtual pet. First you buy a Webkinz pet at a store like Hallmark, hospital gift shops, JC Penney, Wild Birds Unlimited. With the plush animal you receive a secret code which allows you to enter the world of Webkinz. You must feed your pet, exercise her, buy food for her. You go shopping with money you earn from playing the games and visiting area on the website. They even have chat, but it is extremely controlled. You can use a section where you can send only prefabricated messages, in a second area the chat is controlled by not allowing certain words e.g. proper names, numbers, etc.

The Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County is doing programming in connection with Webkinz. Here are two blogs from there that talk about it.
Pondering the Blurr
Yes to Know

What are your thoughts? Do you suppose this something you might consider?

Recommended Toy List for Holidays

With all the toy recalls that have occurred in the last year, parents may be searching for new ideas on what to buy this year.

Parenting for High Potential puts out an annual list of board games, interactive games and some hands-on games for parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents to check out. They claim the list is the newest and hottest for this season.

Parents' Choice also has some ideas for great gifts.

Please leave a comment if you know any other sites for recommending toys.

Portrayal of American Indians in Rockwell's Thanksgiving Book

Debbie Reese maintains a blog on how American Indians are portrayed in children's literature. The November 7 entry is quite interesting and it may help you look at Anne Rockwell's Thanksgiving Day in a new light.

We all own a copy or two of it. After reading Debbie's blog why not come back here and leave a comment?

Christmas Thumbprint Craft

Klutz has a cute thumbprint craft for Christmas.

New ITELL Blog

As we move forward in our efforts for early literacy in Indiana we have decided to close the ITELL mailing list and start a blog. Please visit the ITELL blog to see our new endeavor. We welcome your comments and want your comments.

Be sure to spread the news to all your colleagues about this blog

Opening a Book

This is so funny. While all of us are busy trying to learn Library 2.0, it will bring a smile to your face. View the video -- Opening a Book

Pull your pants up video

This was sent to me by the artist. It says what we all want to say. Video