Jackie Silberg

Q: You have written 16 books for parents and teachers and your books have won numerous awards, from Parent’s Choice Awards to Earlychildhood News Directors’ Choice Awards. Why do you think your books appeal to both parents and educators alike?

A: Parents and educators enjoy my books because they are easy to read, present meaningful activities that are simple and straightforward, and always tell the reader why the activity is important. While some books are really focused only on classroom learning, my books are easily adapted for home use so parents can pick up where school leaves off.

Q: How does brain research play a role in the books you write?

A: Research shows that brain activity creates tiny electrical connections called synapses. The amount of stimulation young children receive has a direct effect on how many synapses will be formed. By repeating experiences and activities, the connections grow stronger and eventually become permanent. I incorporate brain-friendly experiences and activities into my books so children develop strong brain function while they have fun.

Q: Your latest book, Baby Smarts, features games that parents can play with babies without buying expensive toys or props. How are these games helpful for a baby’s growth and development?

A: The games in Baby Smarts develop listening, language, motor, cognitive, and social skills. When babies form loving attachments to adults and have the opportunity and encouragement to explore and experience their environment, they will be prepared for learning throughout their lives. Adults can establish these bonds and provide these experiences with the activities in Baby Smarts.

Q: What is the most common misconception about raising a child today?

A: I think that many adults have unrealistic expectations for their children and expect them to act and think in ways that are not appropriate for their age. There are many great books that can help parents understand where their children should be developmentally while providing activities and games for helping children to reach developmentally appropriate milestones. I hope parents will utilize these resources so their children can build a strong basis for future learning.

Q: You focus on literacy and on helping children succeed and thrive as readers. What are simple techniques that parents and teachers can implement today?

A: Read to your child. Sing to your child. Make up stories using the child’s name in the stories. …and most of all, talk….talk….talk…to your child!

Q: You perform concerts, present workshops for teachers and administrators, and work one-on-one with children in classrooms: all of this when you’re not writing books or recording CDs! Which aspect of your career do find the most rewarding? Why?

A: I find all aspects rewarding. I get a lot of email thanking me for ideas that have helped teachers meet the needs of the children in their classrooms. When I give a concert and the families leave singing and dancing down the aisle, I get great satisfaction. When teachers tell me how meaningful my presentations are, I feel wonderful. As long as I know that I am helping to make the lives of children better, I am totally rewarded.

Q: You have lectured and performed in Singapore, Australia, and Bali. What differences do you see in education and parenting in these countries compared to what you see in the United States?

A: In all of the countries that I have worked in, the basic love and care for children is universal. The methods for teaching are often different; for example, the schools in some countries try to emulate Reggio. Other countries still use worksheets, letters of the week, and more formal methods of teaching. All of the countries that I have visited use music as a way to teach everything. Of course, I agree with that because music is nonjudgmental and gives joy and pleasure to everyone.

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