Let's Have Fun with Food and Learn Table Manners at the Same Time

Title: Shakes, Cakes, Frosted Flakes
Subtitle: Second in the Funny Children’s Poems series
Author: Leslie C. Halpern
Illustrator: Oral Nussbaum
Children’s poetry, ages 5-9
ISBN: 978-0615883267
Paperback, Sept. 3013
Pages: 46
$11.49
Available from Smashwords and Kindle

I was attracted to a book that teaches children table manners, especially table manners in a restaurant. From recent observations, I’d say this little poetry book is sorely needed. Shakes, Cakes and Frosted Flakes is one that includes humor. And it does a good job if we remember that children learn best from what entertains them. There are no dull moments here and each of the gross ones (gross only to grownups!) is an opportunity to discuss how there is a place for some behaviors that aren't appropriate for others.

The opening poem certainly addresses one of the basic table manner tenets:

CLEAN FACE CLUB

Mom says eating
is not a race.
That I should keep
a steady pace,
use good manners
and first say grace,

Clean my plate
and not leave a trace,
put dirty dishes
in their place,
but mostly keep
food off my face.

Isn’t it cute! I thought so!

Another favorite is "The Birthday Party." It gives parent and child much to discuss before the big day. I liked the tutorial at the end of the book and the list of vocabulary words that might be new for this age group.

I like that Leslie C. Halpern is planning more! They will make excellent little gifts for kids—one that will intrigue (and benefit) the whole family.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leslie C. Halpern is an award-winning poet, essayist, and author. Her first book was Rub, Scrub, Clean the Tub and Frogs, Hogs, Puppy Dogs is coming. Learn more about Leslie on Facebook.

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