Being a lifelong bookworm, I have always treasured books and think of them as the most awesome gifts to give to others. What I've found, though, is when looking for birthday presents for our children's friends … we tend to overlook the book. The latest gadgets, toys, clothing, or collectibles are what draw the most "ooohs and ahhhs" during the party, correct? Well, not necessarily. Read on for some pretty cool gift ideas that include literature as the main attraction.

"There is no Frigate like a Book 

To take us Lands away, 

Nor any Coursers like a Page 

Of prancing Poetry "

- Emily Dickinson (1830-1886), American poet 

The foundational philosophy of Reading House activities is the use of "literary experiences." Literary experiences are instructional reading moments, games, routines, or lessons that occur within the context of everyday life. Sometimes these activities are planned and sometimes they aren't. The defining aspect of literary experiences, though, is that they happen naturally throughout the course of a learner's day.

When teaching a large class, it is imperative to keep your students' attention on the learning task. As soon as one child starts to lose interest or fool around, the domino effect will happen. As other children withdraw their attention, the main thrust of your lesson has lost its power. Try implementing some of the following techniques into your teaching routines. You'll be pleasantly surprised at the results.