Years ago, back when I was teaching 24 kids instead of just 2, I used to teach the children lessons featuring a certain author or illustrator. I think it's fun for kids, young and old, to spend some time learning about an author or illustrator and his subject area and art technique.
Henry and I have been reading some of Lois Ehlert's books. Her stories are perfect for this time of year, because so many of them are about birds, seeds, animals and flowers. Since we've been learning about spring, seeds, and planting, her books are the perfect compliment. (Plus they are pretty "easy reading" for new readers.) Ehlert's artwork is absolutely charming, made with vibrantly colored paper.
Feathers for Lunch was our favorite, because it teaches about 12 different birds and a playful cat who is hungry for, well, lunch.
The perfect companion for teaching about seeds and planting - from start to finish.
I also wanted Havalah to have a part in our author/illustrator study so she and I spent some time examining Ehlert's artwork. Then she created her own version of a Lois Ehlert work, based on the pictures from Feathers for Lunch. So pretty, I think! 