Something that I
like to encourage parents to do is to expand their nursery rhyme horizons and
vocabulary. Jack and Jill, Humpty Dumpty, and Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star are fine, but, there is so much out
there to explore when it comes to word play, rhythms, and rhymes. Plus, it is
extremely important these days that our children are exposed to rhythms and
rhymes from around the world so that they develop an ear and appreciation for
music and languages from other countries. I believe, when they hear a smorgasbord
of sounds, early on, children find it easier and fun to learn a second or third language
in school.
One of my very
favorite finds is Nursery Rhymes From
France translated by Olive Beaupre Miller and illustrated
by two of America’s best known illustrators in the first half of the last
century, Maud and Miska Petersham. It was published by The Book House For Children; Chicago. This book, as you will see,
is a visual treasure and auditory feast for young eyes and ears. The illustrations
are incredibly well researched and executed; they are playful, childlike,
colorful, and filled with humor. Every illustration is also a nod to the
historical back story within each rhyme. A little history lesson never hurts as
a rhyme side dish!
The illustrations in Nursery Rhymes From
France also capture the full array of the French sensibility and class structure; from peasants to
royalty and from Paris, to Versailles, to Avignon.
Another bonus of
this gorgeous book is that several of the rhymes include the musical score with
the original French lyrics and many with the translated English lyrics. When you begin to learn these little ditties they become just as contagious and
fun as any of our traditional English rhymes.
Give it a try!
Check Amazon or your local used book stores. Let me know if you find any other
wonderful nursery rhyme books from other countries! I’m always in hunt and
gather mode when it comes to nursery rhyme books and resources.
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