Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1: Baby Storytime Book of the Month
Counting to 10 has never been more fun, or sweet. Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1 by Amy Schwartz is the perfect baby storytime book for exploring counting, love, or springtime themes. Both babies and their caregivers will love the rhythm and the opportunity to count along with you. The adorable illustrations showcase the many everyday ways a caregiver and little one share love and tenderness, from sharing a tasty cinnamon bun to walking together. Work one or more of these elements into your next Baby Storytime for more engagement and fun.
How to Make Your Read-Aloud Interactive
The beauty of this book is the built-in opportunity to encourage attendees to count from 1 to 10 with you. Large illustrated numbers on each spread are eye-catching and helpful. You could also add numbers to a flannel board as you read, but it’s up to you and your comfort level. I’ve known some baby groups that get too excited by flannel boards and swamp it trying to pull the items off, while others that have seen flannel boards regularly may leave it alone.Â
Number Rhymes
Keep the fun going with these sweet number-themed rhymes.
One To Five
One little nose, two little feet
Three little tickles on your tummy sweet!
Four little kisses on five little toes
Then one more kiss for your sweet little nose!
One Two Buckle My Shoe
One, two, buckle my shoe
Three, four, shut the door
Five, six, pick up sticks
Seven, eight, lay them straight
Nine, ten, a big fat hen!
Playtime Activities
Ending Baby Storytime with free play provides children and their caregivers an excellent opportunity to explore and socialize. Here are great play activities to enjoy with Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1:
Blocks & Puppets
Like the caregiver and child playing with blocks and toys in the book on the #2 page, set out blocks and/or puppets for attendees to enjoy together. These ECR4Kids SoftZone Patchwork Toddler Blocks, available through Amazon, have been a favorite with my groups. I’ve used them during storytime and set them out in the library’s main play area for daily drop-in enjoyment. They are easy to clean and have lasted a good four years so far!Â
More Baby Storytime Books
Cinnamon Bun, I Love You 1 pairs beautifully with these other storytime books:
Visit The Youth Desk’s Baby Storytime Page for more information about Baby Storytimes, including a full outline, additional books, songs, rhymes, and prop ideas!
