Parents' Guide to

When Mama Comes Home Tonight

By Sharon Asta, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 2+

Good book for the end of a hectic day.

Book Eileen Spinelli Family Life 1998
When Mama Comes Home Tonight Poster Image

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What's the Story?

A mother and her child celebrate that special time between homecoming and bedtime. Calming illustrations capture universal rituals of snuggling, playing, eating, bathing, a bedtime story, and a lullaby song. Children and their working parents will find this ideal environment comforting.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Although the rituals are romanticized -- devoid of tantrums or battles of wills -- children will love the tenderness and safety this story provides. And don't all parents and toddlers wish bedtime went this smoothly! The simple, flowing text encourages children, even those with limited language skills, to repeat rhyming words and peaceful passages. Child and parent model calm behaviors for readers to emulate.

Pastel watercolor and color-pencil illustrations set the mood of gentleness and serenity. They have an old-fashioned appeal, like the paintings of Mary Cassatt. There is sweetness to the story, and the illustrations will have parent and child returning time and again to this book for role modeling and comfort at the end of a hectic day.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about their evening rituals before bedtime. What's your favorite part about getting ready for bed?

Book Details

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