Valentine's Day is a GREAT opportunity to target those social language concepts (kindness, humility, giving, etc). As always picture books are a part of nearly EVERY therapy session I have. I'm sharing some of my favorite books I like to use for Valentine's Day. You can download the free book companions at the bottom of the post to print and have handy as you use them too!
My favorite Valentine's Day books for Speech Therapy
Although there are many great books, here are my favorite Valentine's Day books to us in Speech Therapy. Comment below with your favorites and how you use them.
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Hedgehugs by Steve Wilson and Lucy Tapper– I absolutely LOVE hedgehogs – the illustrations in this board book are precious. A delightful look at friendship and perseverance.
Language goals I use it for:
- growth mindset
- story recall
- grammar: adjectives!
- sequencing
- compare/contrast
- vocabulary
Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli– This book offers numerous social language opportunities and embedded messages. Call attention to the muted hues during “sad” parts that become brighter illustrations during times he is “happy.” This helps readers connect to the images of the book for deeper connections and understanding.
Language goals I use it for:
- inference
- story recall
- vocabulary
* You can also watch it being read on StoryLine Online
Roses Are Pink Your Feet Really Stink by Diane DeGroat– You can probably read in the title how I use this book – social language! An EXCELLENT book for discussing things we think about vs. what is appropriate to say or write to someone.
Language goals I use it for:
- story recall
- social language
- extension activity: writing notes to friends (what makes them a good friend)
Love, Splat by Rob Scotton– The beloved Splat The Cat does not disappoint in this Valentine book. A great way to celebrate having courage when you are nervous and knowing that there is someone to love and accept you for who you are. I love this book for bullying issues and for trying to “outdo” others.
Language goals I use it for:
- plot
- inference
- character
- compare/contrast
- story recall
- social/emotional
Other Valentine's Day books I love:
The Day It Rained Hearts by Felicia Bond
Love Monster by Rachel Bright
Love Is by Diane Adams
Amelia Bedelia's First Valentine by Herman Parrish (figurative language) and
Happy Valentine's Day, Mouse by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond (perfect for story recall and sequencing).
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