I’ve been reorganizing my bookshelves, so I thought I would share some of my favorite early childhood resource books with you.  These are the ones I turn to when my own creativity is not flowing — they are filled with simple, play-based activities that encourage creativity and exploration.

In this post, I’ll share some of my most-used general resource books, to be followed with posts about my favorite art, science + nature, math, literacy, and parenting books. {Updated January 2012}

Unplugged Play: No Batteries. No Plugs. Pure Fun. by Bobbi Conner

Love this book! It’s divided into Toddler Play, Preschool Play, and Grade School Play and is FULL of games, crafts, pretend play, party ideas and more! There are many familiar ideas with new twists, as well as little tidbits on parenting, stocking an art cabinet, etc.  One of my favorite and most-used books.

Everyday Opportunities for Extraordinary Parenting: Simple Ways to Make a Difference in Your Child’s Life by Bobbi Conner

Another great book by the same author.  This one reminds me that to find those special moments of connection as we go about our day together.

Thinking Games for Preschoolers by Susan Baltrus

This book has tons of easy games to play at home, outside, in the car, at the grocery store, waiting in line, etc.  The games are even indexed in the back by skills like visual observation, problem solving, imagination, memory, and more. (This book appears to be out-of-print – I recommend tracking down a used copy!)

Fun on the Run!: 324 Instant Family Activities by Cynthia Copeland

This is a little book that you can stash in your purse, diaper bag, or glove box and use when things are getting crazy.  Ideas for doctor’s office visits, long car rides, shopping trips, etc.

Child of Wonder: Nurturing Creative and Naturally Curious Children by Ginger Carlson

This book is another treasure-filled resource for setting-up a creative environment and encouraging creative thinking. There are oodles of play ideas, too! It’s geared toward preschoolers, but families of school-age kids will find many activities to enjoy, too.

Playful Learning: Develop Your Child’s Sense of Joy and Wonder by Mariah Bruehl

My favorite aspect of this book is the experience philosophy. Rather than just a collection of activities, the experiences in this book truly provide opportunities for conversation, connection, and discovery. It is a wonderful book to enjoy side-by-side with your kids, following their interests and having fun learning together. (Read more about this book in my detailed review.)

Happy Reading!

Care to share a favorite from your bookshelf?

Happy December! I hope your month is off to a great start. We are watching the wind blow like crazy today. I have a feeling our trees are going to be quite bare by the end of the day!

We’ve made it to our final play inspiration download of the year. I hope you and your kids have enjoyed having a few go-to play ideas at your fingertips each month.

December’s play ideas include simple outings, weather watching, shadow play, and more. Enjoy!

Download 10 Ways to Play in December.

You can download the past months’ idea sheets here.

Happy playing!

Happy Monday! I’m over at Make and Takes today sharing a fun Busy Bingo game to print and play. We’re bringing ours along to play with cousins on Thanksgiving. This bingo game includes some movement, some talking, and some hunting. Fun!

Head over to Make and Takes to print a Busy Bingo game for your kiddos!

Happy playing!