{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Episode 2: Signs of Spring | Springtime Books to Read and Activities to Do (Even While in Isolation\/Quarantine)","description":"Today\u2019s episode is all about picture books for spring!  Since we\u2019re all in isolation, keeping our children engaged, stimulated, and occupied has been a challenge.  Reading these springtime books and doing some corresponding spring activities and crafts has been great way to incorporate learning for my preschooler while also involving my toddler without any of us getting overwhelmed.  Current brain research tells us that reading aloud to young children is one of the best ways to stimulate language and cognitive skills; to build curiosity, motivation, and memory; and to help our kids grow in empathy.  Additionally, these springtime books can give us the inspiration and impetus to get our children to go outside and interact with nature, which positively impacts a child\u2019s development as well as his\/her physical and mental health.    Click HERE for the TRANSCRIPT, the FULL LIST OF BOOKS mentioned in this episode, and all FREE PRINTABLES.      Click HERE to join our mailing list!  Get in touch via email: christina@exquisitelyeverafter.com Get in touch on Instagram: @exquisitelyeverafter All other information can be found in the blog post for this episode:  https:\/\/exquisitelyeverafter.com\/episode2\/ If you liked this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and tell your friends!  Happy Reading!       Exquisitely Ever After is a podcast about reading children\u2019s literature to cultivate kind, intelligent, and successful kids.  Host Christina Phillips-Mattson is a writer, educator, and mother of two little boys who received her Ph.D. in children\u2019s and young adult literature from Harvard University.  ","author_name":"Exquisitely Ever After","author_url":"https:\/\/exquisitelyeverafter.com","html":"