fun idea for kids

I know that most of us moms are creative but today I thought I'd share an idea with you.. which you may have already thought of but in case you haven't then it's worth a try.

Long story short: Making your own books on tape/CD

Long story: This past winter Wendell and I went to the library a lot and we often picked up books on tape for him to listen to out loud which was a great alternative to watching TV. But eventually we were getting books he didn't really like (or I didn't like) so I had another idea. I found an old tape cassette/walk man so I thought I'd record myself reading some of Wendell's favorite books and then he can listen to them and turn the pages to follow along. So I went and bought blank tapes but it turns out my tape player doesn't record audio (even though it has a record button); so scratch that idea and $2 down the drain (anyone need blank audio cassette tapes?). But then I realized our camera has a video option, like most digital camera's have now adays. Anyways, there is also an audio option; on mine it's the little microphone picture. So the other day during nap time, I recorded a few of his favorite stories.

Today: I actually uploaded those onto the computer and let Wendell have at it. He was able to hit replay himself and I think he sat for over an hour listening to the same story over and over.... but he loved it. Eventually I got him to listen to another one and next thing I knew it was lunch time. I think we have a little tweaking to do but for now I'm really excited to see what happens. If we're smart Harlie can use this someday too.

Next: We might purchase a CD walk man and burn the stories to CD then he can wear headphones, he's not using the computer, and he can do it in his room. We thought about buying a very very simple IPOD but I think even the simple ones are still kind of pricey. Maybe a used one will pop up for us, we'll see. But Phil even offered to read some stories so I think that will be great as well.

So, anyways, that's my story, hope you enjoy!