Every day I discover more and more beautiful things. It’s enough to drive one mad. I have such a desire to do everything, my head is bursting with it.
- Claude Monet
Dad Suggests was created to share with others the many different things that we have loved sharing with our own children.
Our hope is that - by reading or visiting our children’s bookstore - you will find something special to enjoy with your own family.
- Ryan
Is it bad parenting to let your kids play with smartphones during dinner? Is it okay to occupy them with screens in public when they are bored and potentially disruptive? It’s certainly common practice these days, but are there drawbacks?
This is Sadie by Sara O’Leary is a triumphant celebration of the child’s imagination. It’s one of our very favorite picture books. The artwork by Julie Morstad really stands out during the series of beautiful pages celebrating famous children's literature.
Bloxels is a combination of block building and video game creation for kids. This is an amazing toy for kids with lots of creativity and imagination on display - and the sense of pride and wonder they have when they play their very own video game is very special to see.
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig and illustrated by Patrice Barton is a picture book about reaching out to someone who needs a friend. It is a masterclass example of empathy, and it should be in every home, library, and classroom in the world.
Iello’s King of Tokyo is one of those rare family board games that are legitimately enjoyed by the entire family. Not only can younger children and older children play together, but parents will just as happily play this game without their kids. Look no further, Godzilla fans, this is your perfect board game.
The Dark by Lemony Snicket and Jon Klassen is the perfect scary picture book. It can be quite useful in facing your fears of the dark - and it’s far and away one of our favorite picture books of all time.
My Neighbor Totoro is a film that should be shared with every child. The artwork in all of Miyazaki's films is second-to-none. The stories are heartwarming and exploding with love and imagination and the innocence of childhood.
Magnus’ Kingdom of Chess is the best app for introducing your kids to the basics of chess. Your children will internalize how all of the pieces move simply by playing this engaging RPG. By the end of the game they’ll have practiced their checkmates and be ready for a complete game.
Race to the Treasure! by Peaceable Kingdom definitely belongs in that elusive category of games made for kids that parents legitimately enjoy playing too. It also happens to be a fantastic introduction to strategy for your children. And, since it was our son’s first game, we’ll certainly have fond memories of it forever.
Truly scary picture books seem to be a rare breed these days. Very rarely do I come across anything that reminds me of the innocent chills from my childhood. What There Is Before There Is Anything There is the best scary picture book for kids I’ve ever seen.
