Posted in Books and Reading, Fun in nature, Parenting

5 Fun and Educational Father-Daughter Activities Inspired by ‘Dad Is My Best Friend’

Father-daughter bonding activities are important for creating lasting memories and building a strong relationship between dads and their daughters. Inspired by the heartwarming children’s book “Dad Is My Best Friend” by Kerice and Kavion Robinson, we’ve put together a list of five fun and educational activities that dads and daughters can enjoy together.

From bike riding adventures to counting exercises, these activities provide a great opportunity for dads and daughters to bond while also learning and having fun. So whether you’re looking for new ways to spend time with your daughter or want to create more meaningful memories, these activities are sure to be a hit!

You can purchase “Dad Is My Best Friend” from Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Barnes & Noble.

Front cover of children's book 'Dad is my Best Friend' written by Kerice Robinson

Dad and Daughter Bonding: 5 Fun and Educational Activities

Suggestions for fun learning activities or adventures that kids can enjoy inspired by “Dad Is My Best Friend” book:

  1. Bike Riding Adventure: Inspired by Angela and her dad’s bike riding adventures in the book, kids can go on their own bike rides with their dads or father figures. This could be an opportunity to teach kids about bike safety, road signs, and basic maintenance.
  2. Counting Exercise: The book includes counting exercises that kids can join in on. Parents can encourage their children to practice counting by counting objects around the house or while out on a walk. This could also be extended to include basic addition and subtraction exercises.
  3. Outdoor Exploration: Angela and her dad go on outdoor adventures in the book, including racing. Parents can take their kids on hikes or nature walks in their local park or nature reserve. This could be an opportunity to teach kids about the different plants, animals, and insects they may come across.
  4. Fitness Fun: Angela and her dad do push-ups together in the book. Parents can encourage their kids to join in on simple fitness activities such as jumping jacks, squats, and lunges. This could be an opportunity to teach kids about the importance of exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
  5. Storytelling: Parents can use the book as inspiration to share their own childhood stories with their children. This could be an opportunity to bond with their kids and teach them about their family history and values.

Overall, the book provides a great opportunity for parents and children to spend quality time together, bond, and create lasting memories.

Posted in Homeschool, Parenting, Social Emotional

Mindfulness Games and Exercises for Kids of All Ages

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and aware of one’s thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. It is a powerful tool for children to develop focus, calmness, and emotional regulation. With the increasing demands and distractions in today’s world, mindfulness is more important than ever for kids of all ages. In this post, we will explore mindfulness techniques and activities that parents can teach their kids to help them cultivate mindfulness.

  1. Mindful Breathing: Mindful breathing is a simple yet powerful way to help kids become more aware of their breath and to focus on the present moment. Parents can teach their kids to focus on their breath and notice how it feels as they inhale and exhale. Encourage them to take slow, deep breaths, and to count to five as they inhale and count to five as they exhale. Repeat this exercise for a few minutes every day, and encourage them to use this technique when they feel stressed or overwhelmed.
  2. Mindful Listening: Mindful listening is a great way for kids to become more aware of their surroundings and to develop their attention and focus. Parents can ask their kids to sit quietly and listen to the sounds around them. Encourage them to identify different sounds, such as birds chirping, cars honking, or people talking. Ask them to focus on one sound and follow it as it fades away. Repeat this exercise with different sounds and encourage them to use this technique when they need to focus on a task or when they need to calm down.
  3. Mindful Eating: Mindful eating is a great way for kids to become more aware of their food and to develop healthy eating habits. Parents can teach their kids to focus on their food and to notice how it looks, smells, and tastes. Encourage them to take small bites and to chew slowly, paying attention to the texture and flavor of the food. Ask them to notice how their body feels as they eat and when they are full. This exercise can help kids develop a healthy relationship with food and to be more mindful of their eating habits.
  4. Mindful Walking: Mindful walking is a great way for kids to become more aware of their body and to develop their sense of balance and coordination. Parents can ask their kids to walk slowly and to focus on their feet as they touch the ground. Encourage them to notice how their body feels as they walk, and to focus on the sensation of their feet on the ground. Repeat this exercise for a few minutes every day, and encourage them to use this technique when they need to focus or when they need to calm down.
  5. Mindful Drawing: Mindful drawing is a great way for kids to become more aware of their creativity and to develop their fine motor skills. Parents can ask their kids to draw a picture of something that they see or imagine. Encourage them to focus on their drawing and to notice the colors, shapes, and textures that they are using. Ask them to take their time and to be patient with themselves as they draw. This exercise can help kids develop their creativity and to be more mindful of their artistic abilities.

Children’s Books about Mindfulness

In addition to practicing mindfulness exercises and games, parents can also use children’s books to teach their kids about mindfulness. Teaching mindfulness to kids is an excellent way to help them manage their emotions, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being. There are various ways to introduce mindfulness to children, and one of the most effective methods is through reading. Reading books about mindfulness with your kids can help them understand the concept and practice of mindfulness better. Here are some of our top picks:

  1. “Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness Exercises for Kids (and Their Parents)” by Eline Snel This book is perfect for parents who want to introduce their children to mindfulness. The book is designed to teach kids the practice of mindfulness through fun and engaging exercises. It comes with an audio CD that guides kids through simple mindfulness exercises. The book is suitable for children aged four to eight years old.
  2. “Breathe Like a Bear: 30 Mindful Moments for Kids to Feel Calm and Focused Anytime, Anywhere” by Kira Willey This book is a collection of thirty breathing exercises and mindfulness activities that kids can do anywhere, anytime. The exercises are easy to follow, and the book is illustrated with colorful images that make it more engaging for kids. The book is suitable for children aged four to eight years old.
  3. “Mindful Me: Mindfulness and Meditation for Kids” by Whitney Stewart This book teaches kids how to practice mindfulness and meditation. It provides clear and simple instructions on how to meditate and how to practice mindfulness in daily life. The book also includes several exercises that kids can do to help them relax and focus. The book is suitable for children aged six to ten years old.
  4. “Moody Cow Meditates” by Kerry Lee MacLean This book tells the story of a moody cow who learns the practice of mindfulness and how to control his emotions. The story is easy to understand, and the illustrations are engaging. The book teaches kids how to practice mindfulness and how to regulate their emotions. The book is suitable for children aged four to eight years old.
  5. “I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness” by Susan Verde This book teaches kids the importance of mindfulness and how it can help them stay calm and focused. The book includes several mindfulness exercises and simple breathing techniques that kids can do to manage their emotions. The illustrations are beautiful and add to the calming effect of the book. The book is suitable for children aged four to eight years old.

Teaching mindfulness to children is an excellent way to help them manage their emotions and improve their overall well-being. Reading books about mindfulness with your kids is an easy and effective way to introduce mindfulness to them. The books listed above are some of the best children’s books about mindfulness and are suitable for children of different ages.


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Posted in Books and Reading, Reading

Readers’ Favorite 5 Star Review for Dad Is My Best Friend

Reviewed by Savannah Aldridge for Readers’ Favorite

Dad Is My Best Friend by Kerice K. Robinson and illustrated by Kavion Robinson tells the story of the beautiful relationship between a father and daughter. Our narrator Andrea is a young girl who proudly proclaims that her dad is her best friend. She then takes us on an ordinary yet fun-filled day spent with her father. Together, they race and bike outside and then come indoors for some more exercise together. We get to count how many push-ups Andrea’s dad can do with her sitting on his back. Finally, at the end of a long day, he tucks her into bed with love.


After reading this book, the first word that came to my mind was “cozy.” Kerice K. Robinson notes in the beginning that some of the scenes were inspired by her early memories with her father, and the genuine love between dad and daughter is deeply evident throughout this book. The story feels gentle, safe, warm, and cozy! Another endearing part of Dad Is My Best Friend is its beautiful artwork. Each picture is bright, detailed, focused, and truly captures the love in Angela and her father’s relationship. The vocabulary sounds like the genuine narrative of a young girl, which makes the book perfect for early readers who need a book they can go through on their own. However, I believe the best way for a kid to enjoy this book is to snuggle up with their dad. A warning to fathers who plan to read it. Your kid will want you to do push-ups while they sit on your back because it looks like fun in the book. Get ready for a father-daughter bonding workout!

Posted in Authors, Books and Reading

Kerice Robinson’s Debut Picture Book “Dad Is My Best Friend” releases just in time for Father’s Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: On Sale June 2022 | Dad Is My Best Friend | Written by Kerice Robinson | Illustrated by Kavion Robinson

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Unabashed Kids Media is pleased to announce the publication of “Dad is My Best Friend“, written by Kerice Robinson and illustrated by Kavion Robinson.

Dad is my best friend - front cover

The reviews have been overwhelmingly positive for the children’s book “Dad Is My Best Friend.” The book is author, Kerice Robinson’s debut picture book set for wide release on June 1, 2022.

Caribbean illustrator Kavion Robinson’s oil paintings beautifully portray a father and daughter’s heartwarming bond in “Dad Is My Best Friend.” The reader will learn why Angela’s dad is her best friend as she recounts all the fun things they do together. Racing, bike riding, and push-ups are some of the things Angela loves to do with her dad. Readers will have the chance to count and interact with Angela and her dad while they exercise. 

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“My earliest memory of my father is of him working out by the front door of our home. He would do push-ups in front of the door. One day I climbed onto his back and began to count, just like Angela.”Author Kerice Robinson

To forever cherish the memories of those special times with her dad, Kerice Robinson wrote: “Dad Is My Best Friend” based loosely on her own childhood experiences. Purchase your copy on Amazon or Barnes & Nobles.

Dad is my best friend - back cover

About the Illustrator Kavion Robinson

Kavion Robinson is a Jamaican-born painter and illustrator, recognized most notably for his illustrative figure paintings.  He attended the University of The Arts in Philadelphia majoring in traditional illustration. His artistic style can be described as conceptual realism. The subjects of his paintings are highly influenced by his childhood in Jamaica.  As a painter, “I made it my goal to paint images of cultural and historical significance. I have dedicated my career as an artist to depicting black life and history in an enlightening and educational manner”.

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About the Author Kerice Robinson

Author Kerice Robinson’s debut picture book Dad Is My Best Friend is inspired by her childhood experiences with her father. Kerice is passionate about early childhood education and creative writing. Kerice founded Unabashed Kids, a children’s media brand focused on academic and social-emotional education. Kerice plans to grow Unabashed Kids through the creation and promotion of educational videos, articles, picture books, and lesson plans.

Posted in Activity, Arts and Crafts, Books and Reading, holiday

Groundhog’s Day Classroom Activities!

Groundhog's day

Reading books, arts & crafts, writing stories, and making themed treats are great classroom activities for Groundhog’s Day.

dirt pie recipe

For Groundhog’s Day make some “Dirt Pie”. Dirt Pie is a chocolate pudding with oreo cookies. Add some gummy worms to add to the groundhog digging theme and make the sweet treat even sweeter.

Posted in holiday

25 Days of Christmas Children’s Books

Make Christmas educational and fun with this holiday tradition. Unwrap a book a day, read 25 children’s storybooks, one for each day in December before Christmas. To participate wrap 25 children’s picture books in gift wrap and let the children choose a book to unwrap every day. Read the book as a bedtime story or during a structural storytime. I enjoy the glow in a child’s eyes when they open up a gift, the glow is even brighter when they listen to a story about the magic of Christmas. This can be done at home, church, or a traditional school (please be understanding of parents who do not celebrate holidays if you plan to do a Christmas book reading event at your school). #25DaysofChristmasBooks

Follow us on Instagram to see what books from this list make it to our Christmas Unwrapping.

#25DaysofChristmasBooks

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Posted in Books and Reading, holiday

An African American Christmas Book List

Celebrate a diverse Christmas with these storybooks for kids. These children’s picture books feature African American characters and even a black Santa. This list will help you celebrate the importance of Black characters and families depicted in a positive light through Christmas stories.

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Christmas cats coloring page
Parker's elf

Parker’s Elf: A book about managing emotions by Martha Sylla Underwood

Determined to prove that he has mastered his emotions and is secretly guided by a magical Christmas elf, Parker journeys through a series of events to remind his parents of the lessons he’s learned.

Purchase on Amazon

Danny's Christmas list

Danny’s Christmas List by Tieska Jumbo

When Danny and his family visit a local Christmas market, he finds himself in a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Santa.

Purchase on Amazon

A piece of black cake for Santa

A Piece of Black Cake for Santa by Yolanda T. Marshall and illustrated by Subi Bosa

Femi and her friends plan to leave some traditional Caribbean treats out for Santa, including Black Cake.

Purchase on Amazon


The night before christmas

The Night Before Christmas: An African American Retelling written by Noland Nixon and Illustrated by Angela Y. Nixon

A retelling of Clement Moore’s classic holiday poem, complemented with illustrations of African American characters.

Purchase on Amazon

count with santa

Count with Santa: A fun Christmas Counting Book by Angela Y. Nixon

Count all of the gifts and toys that Santa will bring.

Purchase on Amazon

Marcus and Mikayla wait for Santa

Marcus and Mikayla Wait for Santa: An African American Christmas Book for Kids by Sunny Mai

Children get to stay awake with Marcus and Mikayla as they wait for Santa.

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The Day Santa Got sick

The Day Santa Got Sick by Deanne Samuels and illustrated by Oliver Kryzz Bundoc

What happens if Santa can not drive the sleigh on Christmas eve? Read “The Day Santa Got Sick” to find out how toys are delivered when Santa is sick.

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I got the Christmas Spirit

I Got the Christmas Spirit by Connie Schofield-Morrison and Frank Morrison

Explore the joys of the holiday season with this beautifully illustrated book.

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Santa's Secret

Santa’s Secret by Britney Harris

In a fun-filled adventure to the North Pole Carson finds out that Santa has one huge magical secret.

Purchase on Amazon


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Posted in Books and Reading, holiday

The Ultimate List of Fun and Adventurous Christmas Books for Kids

The Elf who couldn't read

Our 2021 Christmas book highlight is “The Elf who couldn’t Read” written by Sonica Ellis and illustrated by Harriet Rodis.

Perfectly themed for Christmas “The Elf who couldn’t Read” helps children overcome their reading fears as they go on a Christmas adventure with Jingles. Jingles is tasked with helping Santa read the Christmas list, however, Jingles does not know how to read yet. Young readers get to help Jingles sound out words. A well-written story that will keep children engaged during Christmas storytime.

Get your copy on Amazon. FREE for Kindle Unlimited subscribers.


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Posted in Uncategorized

Hanukkah Joy in Children’s Picture Books – A list of Stories

Sometimes it is difficult to find winter holiday books that are not just about Santa. The books on this list will bring Hanukkah joy to children in the form of beautifully written and illustrated children’s books. Enjoy these Hanukkah books!



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