{Book Review} With Any Luck, I’ll Drive a Truck by David Friend

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{Book Review} With Any Luck, I’ll Drive a Truck by David Friend

Bulldozers and back-hoes, pavers and plows, trailers and tractors–the world is filled with so many types of trucks! Imagine the fun you could have if you could drive them all! And what if you could bring your best friends along with you? Hop along for a thrilling ride! This playful romp is sure to delight truck lovers everywhere!

  • Age Range: 3 – 5 years
  • Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
  • Hardcover: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Nancy Paulsen Books – Penguin Young Readers Group (June 14, 2016)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0399169563
  • ISBN-13: 978-0399169564
  • Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.4 x 10.8 inches

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Here’s what I love about this book

  • fun rhyming text in a large easy to read font
  • colorful detailed illustrations fill each 2-page spread. Every time I read this book, I find more fun things hidden in the details
  • full of lots of great vocabulary, descriptive words & actions
  • several opportunities for teaching prepositions (in, out, up, down, under, etc.)
  • includes lots of vehicles….. perfect for my patients who have a high interest in anything with a construction or transportation theme

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I’m excited to have my latest “read-play-talk” activity ready for several patients in OMazing Kids speech therapy tomorrow built around this book! The text is very inviting so kids will be motivated to request “read” as I pause and wait expectantly after each two page spread. I will also be targeting key vocabulary via aided language stimulation in the Speak For Yourself AAC app (go, drive, dig, spread, help, cat, cow, and most of the vehicles: crane, fire truck, fork lift, garbage truck, bulldozer, moving van, tanker, snowplow, tractor, cement mixer, dump truck, excavator/backhoe, combine, wrecking ball, flatbed trailer & semi truck). Then we will play with a toy dump truck and a set of colored balls to fill the back and dump out (more great opportunities for requesting colors & the vocabulary “in”, “out” & “go”). And a couple of the patients will get to play a construction themed app on my other iPad or do a coloring page for a couple of minutes as a reinforcer at the end.

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Available for purchase:

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. No compensation was received to review it and my opinions are strictly my own.
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Home E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: https://www.facebook.com/messages/17426452595789
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
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Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with over 26 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities.
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{please ignore any ads that may appear below. This is a free blog and I don’t have any control over ads nor do I profit from them}

{Book + AAC} Wild About Us! and the GoTalk Now Plus AAC app

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Excited to have a fun activity prepared for OMazing Kids speech therapy this week! Wild About Us! by Karen Beaumont has a wonderful message of diversity and loving who you are plus it’s full of lots of great descriptive language and animal vocabulary:

Warty Warthog
Toothy Crocodile
Wrinkly Rhino
Long-Nosed Elephant
Lanky Tall Giraffe
Pink Flamingo
Plump Potbellied Pig
Slow Tortoise
Spiky Porcupine
Spotted Leopard
Wiggly Hippo
Big-Eared Chimp
Huge-Footed Kangaroo
Tiny Pesky Fly
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I bought my new hardcover copy of the book on Amazon for less than $5.00: http://www.amazon.com/Wild-About-Us-Karen-Beaumont/dp/0152062947

I programmed a communication page in the GoTalk Now Plus AAC app & will be using this free printablehttp://lovetolearn2012.blogspot.ca/2015/06/wild-about-us-freebie.html

I’m trying to upload the communication page as a template to the GoTalk Now Online Gallery…. in the meantime here is a temporary link to a PDF: http://share.gotalknow.net/Temp-PDF-D7B120AE-6520-4CAF-9D55-711171B82C9B-6633-000001B297F47F66.pdf

{Update: It finally uploaded to the Online Gallery. Search for “wild” and you’ll find it}

Love using the GoTalk Now Plus AAC app to make communication pages to use with books! It’s amazing to have access to the PCS Boardmaker symbols, SymbolStix symbols, GoTalk symbols and easily search online for pictures all within one app. Plus it’s easy to export the whole page as a PDF to then print and cut apart the symbols to add to kids PECS books. Thanks Attainment Company, Inc.! The kids I serve at our non-profit hospital and I greatly appreciate it 🙂
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GoTalk Now Plus AAC app: GoTalk NOW PLUS by Attainment Company
https://appsto.re/us/LlfpS.i

This app is super easy to program and is full of other great features such as being able to link buttons to music or videos on your iPad, link to YouTube videos, transmit pages over WiFi to another device, scanning, backup/restore with DropBox, upload/download pages via the GoTalk Now Online Gallery, each page can have a different grid size (choices of 1, 2, 4, 9, 16 or 25 buttons per page), and more.
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Home E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: https://www.facebook.com/messages/17426452595789
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
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Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with over 26 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities.
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{please ignore any ads that may appear below. This is a free blog and I don’t have any control over ads nor do I profit from them}

Speech & language ideas for the book “Happy” by Pharrell Williams

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Speech & language ideas for the book “Happy” by Pharrell Williams:

* say (saying words with articulation targeted sounds)
* sunshine (name 3 things that are hot, 3 things at a beach, 3 things you see on vacation)
* break (multiple meaning: give another meaning for the word break)
* hot air balloon (name 3 things that can fly)
* space (multiple meaning: give another meaning for the word space)
* air, care (rhyming, working on vocalic /r/)
* happy (name 3 things that make you feel happy)
* truth (tie into an activity on listening for facts vs. opinions or true vs. false)
* I’ll be just fine (learn 3 strategies to deal with stress or teasing)
* can’t nothing bring me down (discussion on things they can do to be in control of their own emotions)
* synonyms for: say, break, baby, happy, true, bring
* contractions: I’m, she’s, I’ll, don’t, here’s, level’s
* idioms: walking on sunshine, full of hot air, went through the roof
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Most good kids picture books are full of opportunities for tie-ins to speech & language goals. The key is to look at the text & illustrations for inspiration and to think outside the box. 🙂
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Home E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: https://www.facebook.com/messages/17426452595789
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
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Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with over 25 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is a kids book reviewer with a focus on great picture books, a kids toy / product reviewer with a focus on those that are helpful for kids with special needs & an app beta tester for educational and therapeutic app developers. She loves sharing info about great things to use with kids of all abilities.

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{* Please ignore any ads that may appear below this sentence. This is a free blog and I don’t have any control over ads *}

{Book Giveaway} “I’m Thankful” by Terri-Sue Hill

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This is one of my faves to teach kids the values of thankfulness, kindness & gratitude! See lots of lesson plan ideas on this post: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2012/11/16/thanksgiving-thankfulness-giving-and-gratitude-lesson-plan-ideas/.

* I’m Thankful – lovely rhyming text & colorful multicultural illustrations encourage thankfulness & kindness. ($13.95 list price): http://www.amazon.com/Im-Thankful-Terri-Sue-Hill/dp/1452547394.

Here’s your chance to win a copy:

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GIVEAWAY:

This giveaway is now CLOSED. Congratulations to the winners: Mo Ostler in the UK, Cassandra Stafford & Jenny Williams in the USA.

The author has specified that one winner can be outside the USA & 2 winners within the USA.

 

Easy Entry Form:

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  • Only entries with all required information will be valid.The info comes to me directly via e-mail & is ONLY used for the purposes of selecting winners and distributing prizes.
  • Helpful Info & Tips: Folks had requested a simpler entry option. I tried Rafflecopter but most folks did not enter an address so now I’m trying this online contact form instead. I will be hand selecting winners to insure products end up in the hands of folks who will put them to the best use.Briefly tell me how winning this would help you & the kids. I take the time to read each entry so details count. It doesn’t have to be lengthy…. just heart-felt.
  • If you experience any problems with the entry form in this blog post, please e-mail me specific details so I can attempt to fix it. E-mail to:amoorad1@juno.com . The entry deadline may be extended at the sole discretion of OMazing Kids in the event of prolonged entry problems.
  • Each “giveaway” is handled separately on OMazing Kids. So there are no rules prohibiting previous winners from entering this or future giveaways.I really do read every entry in every giveaway carefully to insure that the products end up in the best hands to impact kids lives.

Entry Deadline: 11:59pm CST on November 3, 2015 .

Rules of Participation:

  • Must be 18 years or older with a valid e-mail address.
  • One entry per person.
  • Worldwide entries are allowed for this particular giveaway. The author has specified that one winner can be outside the USA & 2 winners within the USA.
  • Employees or family members of OMazing Kids, LLC or the product’s company are not eligible.
  • No purchase required.
  • Comments submitted via entries may be copied & pasted into the blog post.
  • Odds of winning will depend on the number of eligible entries received.
  • Only entries with all required information will be valid.
  • The winner will be chosen from valid entries on November 4, 2015.
  • In return, the author has requested that winners of the books take the time to post a review for the book on Amazon.com after they receive them.

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3 winners will each receive one paperback copy of this book

  • The winners will be notified via e-mail, will be posted on the blog post & will be posted on the OMazing Kids Facebook page. The company offering the prize may also post the winner’s name on their website, blog, Facebook page and/or other social media sites at their discretion.
  • The prize will be mailed to the winner using the address submitted in the entry form. OMazing Kids is not responsible for items lost in the mail or for inaccuracies in the mailing address. I copy & paste the info directly from what you submit << so PLEASE proof read your entry for accuracy before submitting it…. in the era of iPhone auto correction these errors happen pretty frequently>>
  • The winner’s address will be forwarded to the author and she will be mailing the prizes directly to the winners. After I e-mail the winner’s info to the company, it is their responsibility to mail out prizes. Please contact them first if you are concerned about not receiving a prize. If that does not resolve the problem, then feel free to e-mail me and I will glad to assist in whatever way I can.

Prize Value: $13.95.

Other Legal Stuff: I know it’s just a kids book but just to be safe here is all the legal stuff… This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. You are providing your information to OMazing Kids, LLC and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used for our internal purposes in relation to the administration of the giveaway. Your information will NOT be sold to any outside parties. Indemnification/Hold Harmless: By participating, entrants agree: (a) to the decisions of OMazing Kids, LLC, which shall be final in all respects; (b) to release, discharge, and hold harmless OMazing Kids, LLC and its respective representatives and agents from all liability, injuries, losses or damages of any kind to persons or property resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from the acceptance, possession, misuse or use of a prize, or from participation in and/or entry into the Contest or any Contest-related activity and for acceptance, delivery, or use of any prize; (c) that the foregoing parties have neither made nor are in any manner responsible or liable for any warranty, representation or guaranty, expressed or implied, in fact or in law, relating to any prize.

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#Giveaway #Thankfulness #Thanksgiving #KidsLit

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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Contests & Giveaways on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

OMazing Kids LLC is an organization that promotes inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities. The blog and social media pages share information about books, DVD’s, CD’s, games and other products specifically designed for kids wellness, mindfulness and relaxation, product reviews & giveaways, lesson plan & activity ideas, research, kids wellness in the news and a connection corner with listings of individuals doing adapted yoga and those offering trainings.

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below this note. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.

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{OMazing Kids Book Review, kids yoga ideas & free coloring sheet} “My Leaf Book” by Monica Wellington

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 Yippee! You all know what a huge fan I am of Monica Wellington’s books so I was thrilled to get a copy of her new release “My Leaf Book”. Autumn is my favorite season. Cooler weather, apples, pumpkins & the gorgeous colors of the changing leaves. “Apple Farmer Annie” welcomes Leaf Girl in “My Leaf Book” as a fabulous new addition to my OMazing Kids collection of  favorite fall books

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Here are a few pics of interior pages to give you a feel for the book. I love that even the end sheets are illustrated & that kid-friendly leaf facts and ideas for leaf craft projects are included!

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Opportunities for kids yoga: tree, leaf, gate, upward facing dog, basket, bird, squirrel (toe-ga with brown pom poms), gyan mudra looking glasses, book, forward fold (to pick leaves off ground), standing star, blowing wind breath with small leaves, palming (for leaf rubbing), weeping willow (crescent moon), forest of trees group pose, heart mudra, heart affirmations, heart guided relaxation, etc.. Would be fun to add leaf rubbing, leaf stamping & other leaf-themed crafts. In addition to those listed in the book, there are lots of cool leaf craft ideas on this post!

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About the book: With her trademark bold, graphic style Monica Wellington has created a picture book about autumn, trees, and leaves.  When the seasons change, a young girl visits the arboretum to collect fallen leaves and make a book with them. Brilliant illustrations show each variety of tree the girl encounters, from the common oak to the lesser known gingko.  Spreads silhouetting leaves up-close help young children learn to identify them. Like the girl in the book, young readers will be eager to make their very own leaf books.

  • Age Range: 3 – 5 years
  • Lexile Measure: 0360
  • Hardcover: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Dial Books (September 1, 2015)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0803741413
  • ISBN-13: 978-0803741416
  • Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 0.3 x 11.3 inches

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Available on Amazon & other book resellers.

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Website

Facebook

Free printable coloring sheet from the author

My Leaf Book by Monica Wellington - click pic to open 1-page PDF

 

 

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See posts about more of this author’s books

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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: https://www.facebook.com/messages/174264525957894

AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

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OMazing Kids LLC is an organization that promotes inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities. The blog and social media pages share information about books, DVD’s, CD’s, games and other products specifically designed for kids wellness, mindfulness and relaxation, product reviews & giveaways, lesson plan & activity ideas, research, kids wellness in the news and a connection corner with listings of individuals doing adapted yoga and those offering trainings.

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the crayons divider bar or any ads or unusual hyperlinks that may appear above. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here. 

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Review: Imaginations Fun Relaxation Stories and Guided Imagery for Kids 2

Imaginations: Fun Relaxation Stories and Guided Imagery for Kids 2

Imaginations 2 cover

Book Description

The second book in the Imaginations series, Imaginations 2: Relaxation Stories and Guided Imagery for Kids is an essential resource for every parent and teacher who wants to help children learn to calm their bodies and relax their minds.

The benefits of relaxation for kids include:
*Reduced stress
*Better concentration and focus
*Enhanced ability to learn
*Improved behavior and sleep
*Increased self-esteem

Learning to relax is important for people of all ages, and children who can relax are more prepared to handle big changes in their lives. Relaxation stories and guided imagery can also help ease symptoms associated with ADD, ADHD, autism, depression, and sleep disorders.

Wildly imaginative and beautiful illustrations accompany the whimsical stories of Imaginations 2, which teaches children a fun way to relax that makes their minds calm and their bodies feel good.

  • Series: Imaginations
  • Paperback: 58 pages
  • Publisher: Bambino Yoga; 1 edition (September 15, 2014)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0990732207
  • ISBN-13: 978-0990732204
  • Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.1 x 11 inches

Relaxation Story Titles:

  • Tight and Soft (Progressive Relaxation)
  • A Fall Day
  • Wintertime
  • Springtime
  • Summertime
  • Rainbow Flower Garden
  • The Thunder Drum
  • The End of the Rainbow
  • Nighttime Animal Adventure
  • Lavender Fields
  • Rainbow Bubbles
  • Butterflies
  • Mandalas
  • Sunset
  • Dinosaur Friend
  • In the Desert
  • Making Chocolate
  • More Loving Kindness

What I LOVE about this book:

  • Includes 18 relaxation scripts specifically written for kids. The scripts are short and based on kid-friendly themes. Most of these are themes commonly used in kids yoga classes so this book is sure to become a loved & well used resource!
  • These relaxation scripts will also be helpful in my work as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Many of the kids I see have high levels of anxiety and often have difficulty sleeping. I often incorporate relaxation techniques into my sessions, especially for kids with Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD & Stuttering.
  • The scripts are free of any wording that have religious connotations which makes them easy to use in any setting.
  • Each 2-page spread has a script & a full page illustration. The illustrations capture the essence of the script and many have a “retro” feel to them. I love having a picture to show kids before I read a relaxation script. Many of the kids I work with have special needs and relate well to visuals.
  • Large easy to read text.
  • Great additional info in the introduction sections. Love the simplified intro written specifically for kids!
  • Includes pictures & instructions for four yoga poses as prep for relaxation (knee hug, happy baby, legs up & starfish savasana) and five breathing games (Hoberman Sphere, heart breath, yawning breath, humming breath & buzzing bee breath)

A sneek-peek inside the book. Since there were not any pics on Amazon of any of the actual relaxation stories, I scanned this but masked out most of the text. It will at least give you a “feel” for what the stories are like:

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You can also get a “feel” for what these relaxation stories are like by looking at screenshot from Amazon on the review for the first book in this series (see link below) .

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Lots of great info about the benefits of relaxation & ideas for times to incorporate brief relaxation breaks throughout the day:

Info for adults

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Info for adults 2

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I love both of the author’s books and hope she continues to add more in the series! Also looking forward to the audio versions coming soon 🙂

Be watching the author’s social media sites for fun kids yoga lesson plans & relaxation ideas.  Audio versions of Imaginations: Fun Relaxation Stories and Meditations for Kids are coming soon!

Price at the time of this post: $19.99 (Amazon on sale for 28% off – $14.39. Also a Kindle version for 65% off – $6.99)

Available for purchase on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Imaginations-Relaxation-Stories-Guided-Imagery/dp/0990732207

Both books and a few individual relaxation stories PDFs can also be purchased on the author’s website: http://bambinoyoga.com/shop/. A couple of “freebies” are still available as PDFs on her old website: http://www.imaginationsforkids.com/freebies/

See info about the first book in this series in this review: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2012/08/26/review-giveaway-imaginations-fun-relaxation-stories-and-meditations-for-kids/

Disclaimer: I received a free sample of this product to facilitate my review.  Opinions expressed are my own.

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the wavy divider bar. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.

Book Review & Free Printable Story Props: There Was a Speech Teacher Who Swallowed Some Dice

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I am a huge fan of all the books loosely based on the story “There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly”…. I actually prefer them over the original. So imagine my delight to see there is now one with a SLP theme!

For folks who might get cranky over the term “speech teacher”….. get over it. That’s what kids usually call you if you work in a school and the full term “speech-language pathologist” doesn’t really flow well in the context of this type of book title or repeated readings in the story.

Any speechie who has ever done school-based therapy will get a kick out of this book. I laughed out loud several times! I love that the author included info about the items mentioned in the book. This book would be a fun way to introduce new students to some things they might see in speech therapy. She also includes a scavenger hunt check list.

I bought my copy of the book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/There-Speech-Teacher-Swallowed-Some/dp/1500214949. See more about the author on her websites: http://www.patmervine.com/home.html & http://www.speakingofspeech.com/.

I always make story props to go with these types of books and had fun finding pics online for the 17 items she swallows in the book. Here is the link to the free printable:

There Was A Speech Teacher Who Swallowed Some Dice - click pic to open free 3-page PDF printable Story Props made by OMazing Kids

There Was a Speech Teacher Who Swallowed Some Dice – free 3-page PDF printable made by OMazing Kids

See the OMazing Kids printables “terms of use” here: https://omazingkidsllc.com/printables-terms-of-use/

This printable is being provided free in gratitude for the countless free items that I have used from the Speaking of Speech website and just because that’s how this speechie rolls 🙂

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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Contests & Giveaways on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsContestsandGiveaways

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/#omazing-kids-yoga

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

App Reviews on The Appy Ladies: http://theappyladies.com/?s=Moorad
Posting Apps & Special Needs Resources on The Appy Ladies on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAppyLadies 

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OMazing Kids LLC is an organization that promotes inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities. The blog and social media pages share information about books, DVD’s, CD’s, games and other products specifically designed for kids wellness, mindfulness and relaxation, product reviews & giveaways, lesson plan & activity ideas, research, kids wellness in the news and a connection corner with listings of individuals doing adapted yoga and those offering trainings.

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the crayons divider bar or any ads or unusual hyperlinks that may appear above. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here. I have attempted to remove the CouponDropDown but no luck so far…. DO NOT click on any hyperlinks unless you hover above them first to insure they are valid. Ones I included should appear in blue font.

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Review & Giveaway: Imaginations Fun Relaxation Stories and Meditations for Kids

Imaginations: Fun Relaxation Stories and Meditations for Kids

Book Description

This book provides stories to help children learn to calm their bodies and relax their minds. Wildly imaginative and whimsically joyful, Carolyn Clarke’s guide is a wonderful tool for children to learn that the most important spaces in life are often the quiet moments in between. The stories and illustrations contained in this volume help children learn to calm themselves and release the tension of their lives in a positive, healing manner. A child’s ability to consciously relax their body and clear their mind can help address a myriad of issues, such as anxiety, stress, and excessive worry; sleep disorders, nightmares, and fear of the dark at bedtime; anger issues; focus and concentration issues; special needs, including ADD, ADHD, Aspergers, autism, and OCD; depression; low self-esteem; grief; and life changes such as moving, divorce, or changing schools.

  • Paperback: 56 pages
  • Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (April 28, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1463512023
  • ISBN-13: 978-1463512026
  • Product Dimensions: 11 x 8.5 x 0.1 inches

What I LOVE about this book:

  • Includes 18 relaxation scripts specifically written for kids. The scripts are short and based on kid-friendly themes (getting ready for relaxation, beach, stars, hot air balloon, bubbles, trees, flying, clouds, space, enchanted forest, hiking, sending love, under the sea, tree house, flower potion, seeds, colors, loving kindness). Most of these are themes commonly used in kids yoga classes so this book is sure to become a loved & well used resource!
  • These relaxation scripts will also be helpful in my work as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Many of the kids I see have high levels of anxiety and often have difficulty sleeping. I often incorporate relaxation techniques into my sessions, especially for kids with Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD & Stuttering.
  • The scripts are free of any wording that have religious connotations which makes them easy to use in any setting. Only two (enchanted forest & magic flower potion) make references to “magic”. But it will be easy to modify these two scripts to leave out references to magic.
  • Each 2-page spread has a script & a full page illustration. The illustrations capture the essence of the script and many have a “retro” feel to them. I love having a picture to show kids before I read a relaxation script. Many of the kids I work with have special needs and relate well to visuals.
  • Large easy to read text.
  • Great additional info in the introduction sections. Love the simplified intro written specifically for kids!
  • Includes pictures & instructions for four yoga poses as prep for relaxation (knee hug, happy baby, legs up & starfish savasana)

A sneek-peek inside the book (from preview on Amazon):

Author’s Website: http://www.imaginationsforkids.com/ & her kids yoga website/blog: http://www.sdyogakids.com/

Price at the time of this post: $19.99

Available for purchase on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Imaginations-Relaxation-Stories-Meditations-Kids/dp/1463512023

Disclaimer: I received a free sample of this product to facilitate my review.  Opinions expressed are my own.

How to enter the giveaway:

  1. Enter via the “Giveaways” tab on the OMazing Kids FB page (http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga?v=app_197602066931325) & mention how you would be using this book.  (comments must be in English; must include full first & last name; 1 entry per Facebook account).
  2. For one additional entry, leave a comment on this blog post. Must mention how you would be using this book. If you only enter via blog post comment, you must also send me an e-mail with your mailing address (send to amoorad1@juno.com. You will not need to do this if you also entered via the Enter Giveaways Here…. tab on Facebook since your address will be provided on that entry (comments must be in English; 1 entry per person; must have a valid e-mail address)
  3. Helpful Info & Tips: You increase your odds of winning by entering via both methods. Entering via the “Giveaways” tab will save you the step of e-mailing me your mailing address – the info you complete on the tab comes directly to me via an e-mail. FYI…. I use a free app from Shortstack for that tab and have no control over technical difficulties either on their end or on Facebook. In the event that you experience difficulties with the tab you can submit an entry via e-mail providing your full name, e-mail address, mailing address, how you would be using the book. E-mail to: amoorad1@juno.com. Unfortunately Facebook rules prohibit me from accepting entries directly from posts or comments on Facebook.

Entry Deadline: Enter by any of the methods listed above by 11:59pm CST on August 28, 2012.

Rules of Participation:

  • Must be 18 years or older with a valid e-mail address.
  • International entries are being allowed for this particular giveaway.
  • Employees or family members of OMazing Kids, LLC or the product’s company are not eligible.
  • No purchase required.
  • Comments submitted via the Enter Giveaways Here…. tab on Facebook or e-mail may be copied & pasted into the blog post.
  • Odds of winning will depend on the number of eligible entries received.
  • Three (3) winners will be chosen via a random drawing of valid entries on August 29, 2012.
  • Each winner will receive one (1) copy of the book.
  • The winners will be notified via e-mail and will be posted on the blog post.
  • Each winner’s address will be forwarded to the publishing company and they will be mailing the prize directly to the winner.
  • Prize Value: $19.99

Other Legal Stuff: I know it’s just a kids book but just to be safe here is all the legal stuff…

This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. You are providing your information to OMazing Kids, LLC and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used for our internal purposes in relation to the administration of the giveaway. Your information will NOT be sold to any outside parties.

Indemnification/Hold Harmless: By participating, entrants agree: (a) to the decisions of OMazing Kids, LLC, which shall be final in all respects; (b) to release, discharge, and hold harmless OMazing Kids, LLC and its respective representatives and agents from all liability, injuries, losses or damages of any kind to persons or property resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from the acceptance, possession, misuse or use of a prize, or from participation in and/or entry into the Contest or any Contest-related activity and for acceptance, delivery, or use of any prize; (c) that the foregoing parties have neither made nor are in any manner responsible or liable for any warranty, representation or guaranty, expressed or implied, in fact or in law, relating to any prize.

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the wavy divider bar. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.

Review & Giveaway: My Mama Earth by Susan B. Katz (from Jamie’s Barefoot Books)

Celebrate the wonders of nature with this great new book!

Book Description

Watch the wonder experienced by a small child journeying through the world and round the day taking in the many magnificent aspects of nature. This imaginative and lyrical picture book showcases the love between a mother and child, celebrating the ever-changing beauty of the natural world along the way.

Written By: Susan B. Katz, Illustrated By: Melissa Launay

  • Hardcover: 24 pages
  • Publisher: Barefoot Books (April 1, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1846864186
  • ISBN-13: 978-1846864186
  • Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 0.3 x 10.2 inches

What I LOVE about this book:

  • Beautiful portrayal of a loving relationship between a mother & child.
  • Great message of admiring the earth’s beauty will inspire kids to care for our world and all living creatures.
  • Gorgeous illustrations with lots of details. Like most Barefoot Books, each time I read it I find more things on each page. It’s fun to look for the cat, boy & mama on each page! Great for working on vocabulary & lots of opportunities for kids yoga poses & breathing.
  • Beautiful rhyming text makes this book as beautiful to read and hear as is it is to see.
  • Large easy to read text.

A sneek-peek inside the book:

See a video preview on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-joIbJSDN4o
MP3 from the Youtube video: http://soundcloud.com/omazing-kids-yoga/my-mama-earth; If Soundcloud is not working, I also have the mp3 saved at: http://www.box.com/s/aeaa864ee1c306244303
Find Jamie’s Barefoot Books online – Website: http://jlkwilson.barefootbooks.com,
In addition to selling Barefoot Books she teaches kids yoga classes 🙂

Price at the time of this post:$16.99.

Available for purchase: http://www.barefootbooks.com/marketplace/4826.

Discount Code: 20% off a first time order. The code is Twenty12. (only good when ordering directly through Jaime’s Barefoot Books)

Illustrator’s Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Melissa-Launay/117336158279681, blog: http://melissalaunay.blogspot.com/ & website: http://www.melissalaunay.com/
Author’s website:
http://www.susankatzbooks.com/ 

More things to go with this book in a kids yoga class:

Free printable mandala:

http://www.donteatthepaste.com/2011/01/celestial-mandala-box-card-and-coloring.html

Playlist:

My Mama Earth (from the Youtube video – see link to free mp3 above)

Mama Nature by Kira Willey (on the Kings & Queens of the Forest CD) – http://www.amazon.com/Mama-Nature/dp/B005VW3F3Q

Mother Earth from the Living Values Songs for Children Ages 3-7 CD – free mp3 at: http://www.livingvalues.net/books/Days-Dreams-Music/disc1/Track11.mp3

Disclaimer: I received a free sample of this product to facilitate my review.  Opinions expressed are my own.

How to enter the giveaway:

  1. Enter via the “Giveaways” tab on the OMazing Kids FB page (http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga?v=app_197602066931325) & mention how you would be using this book.  (comments must be in English; must include full first & last name; 1 entry per Facebook account).
  2. For one additional entry, leave a comment on this blog post. Must mention how you would be using this book. If you only enter via blog post comment, you must also send me an e-mail with your mailing address (send to amoorad1@juno.com. You will not need to do this if you also entered via the Enter Giveaways Here…. tab on Facebook since your address will be provided on that entry (comments must be in English; 1 entry per person; must have a valid e-mail address)
  3. Helpful Info & Tips: You increase your odds of winning by entering via both methods. Entering via the “Giveaways” tab will save you the step of e-mailing me your mailing address – the info you complete on the tab comes directly to me via an e-mail. FYI…. I use a free app from Shortstack for that tab and have no control over technical difficulties either on their end or on Facebook. In the event that you experience difficulties with the tab you can submit an entry via e-mail providing your full name, e-mail address, mailing address, how you would be using the book. E-mail to: amoorad1@juno.com. Unfortunately Facebook rules prohibit me from accepting entries directly from posts or comments on Facebook.

Entry Deadline: Enter by any of the methods listed above by 11:59pm CST on August 24, 2012.

Rules of Participation:

  • Must be 18 years or older with a valid e-mail address.
  • Only USA & Canada entries are being allowed for this particular giveaway.
  • Employees or family members of OMazing Kids, LLC or the product’s company are not eligible.
  • No purchase required.
  • Comments submitted via the Enter Giveaways Here…. tab on Facebook or e-mail may be copied & pasted into the blog post.
  • Odds of winning will depend on the number of eligible entries received.
  • One (1) winner will be chosen via a random drawing of valid entries on August 25, 2012.
  • The winner will receive one (1) copy of the book.
  • The winner will be notified via e-mail and will be posted on the blog post.
  • The winner’s address will be forwarded to the publishing company and they will be mailing the prize directly to the winner.
  • Prize Value: $16.99

Other Legal Stuff: I know it’s just a kids book but just to be safe here is all the legal stuff…

This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. You are providing your information to OMazing Kids, LLC and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used for our internal purposes in relation to the administration of the giveaway. Your information will NOT be sold to any outside parties.

Indemnification/Hold Harmless: By participating, entrants agree: (a) to the decisions of OMazing Kids, LLC, which shall be final in all respects; (b) to release, discharge, and hold harmless OMazing Kids, LLC and its respective representatives and agents from all liability, injuries, losses or damages of any kind to persons or property resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from the acceptance, possession, misuse or use of a prize, or from participation in and/or entry into the Contest or any Contest-related activity and for acceptance, delivery, or use of any prize; (c) that the foregoing parties have neither made nor are in any manner responsible or liable for any warranty, representation or guaranty, expressed or implied, in fact or in law, relating to any prize.

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the wavy divider bar. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.

Review & Giveaway: Audrey’s Journey – Loving Kindness by Kerry Alison Wekelo

Help kids explore the concept of “loving kindness” with this great new book!

This new book in the “Audrey’s Journey” series teaches kids the concept of offering love & happiness to themselves, to their family and to all living creatures. “May ___ be safe. May ___ be happy. May ___ be peaceful. May ___ be healthy. May ___ walk with love in ___ heart.”. The book is beautiful and I LOVE the concept of teaching kids to send loving kindness & positive thoughts….. however in the settings I work in I have to be very careful to avoid using words that convey any religious connotation. Folks here view “meditation” in that light. I will still use this book with the kids but will modify how I read it (by substituting “love”, “this” and “loving kindness” for “metta” and “meditation” ).

A sneek-peek inside the book:

   

Book Description

Audrey has a love for music and creating rhymes on her drum. When Audrey plays her drum she is filled with love and happiness. In this journey, Audrey envisions how Metta Meditation can help to spread love and kindness to all living things.
  • Paperback: 20 pages
  • Publisher: AuthorHouse (June 22, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1477223959
  • ISBN-13: 978-1477223956
  • Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 inches

Price at the time of this post:$17.99. Available for purchase on Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Audreys-Journey-Kerry-Alison-Wekelo/dp/1477223959 and AuthorHouse: http://bookstore.authorhouse.com/Products/SKU-000554390/Audreys-Journey.aspx.

The Grand Prize Package will also include this cool white All is Awesome tank in your choice of size (S, M, L, XL). Tanks are available for order on the author’s website listed above.

 

Want to extend a “loving kindness” theme? Check out this great free song: http://charityandthejamband.bandcamp.com/track/loving-kindness 🙂

Disclaimer: I received a free sample of this product to facilitate my review.  Opinions expressed are my own.

How to enter the giveaway:

  1. Enter via the “Giveaways” tab on the OMazing Kids FB page (http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga?v=app_197602066931325) & mention how you would be using this book with your child or the children you work with. Must also indicate the size of All is Awesome white tank you would want if you win the Grand Prize Package (tank sizes: S, M, L, XL). Details count in determining the Grand Prize Package winner. (comments must be in English; must include full first & last name; 1 entry per Facebook account).
  2. For one additional entry, leave a comment on this blog post. Must mention how you would be using this book. If you only enter via blog post comment, you must also send me an e-mail with your mailing address (send to amoorad1@juno.com). You will not need to do this if you also entered via the Enter Giveaways Here…. tab on Facebook since your address will be provided on that entry(comments must be in English; 1 entry per person; must have a valid e-mail address).* Helpful Info & Tips: You increase your odds of winning by entering via both methods. Entering via the “Giveaways” tab will save you the step of e-mailing me your mailing address – the info you complete on the tab comes directly to me via an e-mail. FYI…. I use a free app from Shortstack for that tab and have no control over technical difficulties either on their end or on Facebook. In the event that you experience difficulties with the tab you can submit an entry via e-mail providing your full name, e-mail address, mailing address, how you would be using the book. E-mail to: amoorad1@juno.com. Unfortunately Facebook rules prohibit me from accepting entries directly from posts or comments on Facebook.

Entry Deadline: Enter by any of the methods listed above by 11:59pm CST on August 13, 2012.

Rules of Participation:

  • Must be 18 years or older with a valid e-mail address.
  • International are being allowed for this particular giveaway.
  • Employees or family members of OMazing Kids, LLC or the product’s company are not eligible.
  • No purchase required.
  • Comments submitted via the Enter Giveaways Here…. tab on Facebook may be copied & pasted into the blog post.
  • Odds of winning will depend on the number of eligible entries received.
  • One (1) grand prize package winner & three (3) book winners will be chosen via a random drawing of valid entries on August 14, 2012.
  • The Grand Prize Package winner will receive 1 copy of the book AND 1 All is Awesome white tank in the size indicated in their entry. The three book winners will each receive 1 copy of the book.
  • The winner will be notified via e-mail and will be posted on the blog post.
  • The winner’s address will be forwarded to the company and they will be mailing the prize directly to the winner.
  • Prize Value: $17.99 – book, $10.00 – tank

Other Legal Stuff: I know it’s just a kids book & tank but just to be safe here is all the legal stuff…

This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. You are providing your information to OMazing Kids, LLC and not to Facebook. The information you provide will only be used for our internal purposes in relation to the administration of the giveaway. Your information will NOT be sold to any outside parties.

Indemnification/Hold Harmless: By participating, entrants agree: (a) to the decisions of OMazing Kids, LLC, which shall be final in all respects; (b) to release, discharge, and hold harmless OMazing Kids, LLC and its respective representatives and agents from all liability, injuries, losses or damages of any kind to persons or property resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from the acceptance, possession, misuse or use of a prize, or from participation in and/or entry into the Contest or any Contest-related activity and for acceptance, delivery, or use of any prize; (c) that the foregoing parties have neither made nor are in any manner responsible or liable for any warranty, representation or guaranty, expressed or implied, in fact or in law, relating to any prize.

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, IAYT, RCYP-2

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness activities for kids of all abilities

Radiant Child Yoga Certified – Levels 1 & 2

E-Mail: amoorad1@juno.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

NOTE: Please ignore any ads that appear below the wavy divider bar. This is a free blog site & I have no control over ads appearing here.