High Five: The Highlight Of Her Day

There's just something exciting about getting mail.

No matter how old you are, when you see your name on an envelope (at least, one that isn't a bill or a flier declaring you the winner of a Florida vacation), you get a little thrill.

So imagine what it's like to be three years old and get your very own magazine.

The Poo's grandmother bought her a subscription to Highlights High Five magazine for Christmas, and every time it shows up in the mailbox she does the happy dance.

And you know what? So do I. When Parent Bloggers Network asked me to please review the publication, I was the first to raise my hand.

Highlights High Five is a close relative of Highlights magazine, that classic you remember from your elementary school days, loaded with word searches and great stories.

This version, created specifically for preschoolers, is packed with wonderful short stories, math and literacy games, and crafts that you can easily do with regular household items you likely have on hand. Each issue also includes a story in Spanish and English, complete with phonetic pronunciation.

The "back of the book" always includes something that kids can cut out, create and keep. In February, the back of the book had cute Valentines to cut out and give away, and the March issue contained a series of small cards to cut out and staple together, creating a small book.

Really, I can't say enough about High Five. I'd never heard of it before my mother-in-law signed us up for it, and now both my daughter and I look forward to it each month. I fully intend to renew her subscription when the current one expires.

The stories inside are always educational, but not in a boring way. The quality of the writing is outstanding, and it is a nice alternative to reading the same three books over and over and over.

When she gets her copy each month, The Poo spends at least a half-hour pouring over the stories and pictures inside. Not only does this give me 30 minutes to oh, say, pee, it also creates a sense of excitement about learning and, specifically, reading.

And as a writer, encouraging the love of words in my daughter is a high priority.

So please, take the time to check out the website, and consider ordering High Five for the preschooler in your house, or for a grandchild, niece, nephew or friend.

Send them a little bit of excitement in the mail with High Five.