Seuss-tastic activities for au pairs and host families

Dr. Seuss is one of American’s most beloved children’s writers and his books often have hidden lessons for their readers.

Next week marks the birthday of one of America’s favorite children’s authors: Dr. Seuss, of course! Although he is no longer with us, his stories will entertain and inspire kids (and adults) for years to come. Dr. Seuss made a point of not beginning his stories with an obvious moral—he once stated that “kids can see a moral coming a mile off”—but his books always end up teaching children how to be better citizens. In fact, some people say that writing his book Horton Hears a Who was a way to express his belief in internationalism—defined by Wikipedia as “a political movement which advocates a greater economic and political cooperation among nations for the theoretical benefit of all.” (It sounds like Dr. Seuss would have also advocated our multi-cultural childcare program!)

We encourage parents and au pairs to snuggle up with the kids this winter season and read some Dr. Seuss. Some of our favorites, and fun activities to go along with them, are listed below.

Green Eggs and Ham
Make a batch of green eggs and ham using green food coloring!

And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street!
Help your child write a story using the following format:
As I was on my way home from school, I saw a ______________. It couldn’t be a ______________. No, no. What I really saw was ______________. And to think that I saw it all on [your street name here]!

Horton Hears a Who
Discuss the value of all people regardless of their differences.

Hop on Pop
Say a word out loud and take turns with your (host) children finding as many words as possible that rhyme with it.

If I Ran the Zoo
Encourage your (host) children to draw a brand new kind of creature that they’d like to see the next time you visit the zoo.

The Lorax
Talk about ways in which your (host) family protects the planet (ie. Recycling, using eco-friendly cleaning products, etc.)

The Shape of Me and Other Stuff
Draw an outline of each your (host) child’s body on large pieces of paper and help her or him color it in.

The Cat in the Hat
Ask your (host) child to list all of the things the Cat and Hat should not be doing in your home and talk about why it’s important to follow the rules.

Have fun, and let us know what your favorite Dr. Seuss book is and what important lesson you think it teaches your kids!