Susan Taylor
It’s hard enough to keep the little ones entertained at the best of times, but throw into the mix lockdowns, closures of playcentres and even mingling with other families and it’s near impossible!
Let’s face it, there’s only so many jigsaws you can do and endless hours on the TV and tablet are not the answer (unless you want to foster a technology addiction early). Storybooks are of course fantastic but often short lived, so why not look at some options that will inspire some more creativity and activity?!
Here are six great ideas for books to help you out when you’re craving some extra busy time for the kids.
Mindful Me – by Hinkler
This is a cute new series of super colourful activity packs filled with loads of stickers, puzzles, positive affirmations, colouring, journaling and more. The perfect way for kids to have fun and be in a mindful moment, while keeping their young minds busy!
Available from leading retailers. More info here: https://www.hinkler.com.au/brands/mindful-me
Sensory Play for Toddlers and Preschoolers – by Casey Patch
Written by a teacher and mum, this is a practical, hands-on guide for parents and educators who want to inject more play into their children’s day. Inside are forty easy sensory play tubs and activities featuring items you already have in your home. Not only will your child be learning and exploring through play, but you’ll also be creating some magical memories of playtime that will last a lifetime!
Available from Amazon, Booktopia and other online retailers. More info here: https://www.littlelifelonglearners.com/sensory-play/
My Planet Workbook – by Precious Plastic Melbourne
This lovely sustainability-focused 19-page printable workbook is filled with unique activities to encourage environmentally-aware minds. Activities are designed to suit a wide range of ages, from pre-school to primary school, with plenty of conversation and colouring opportunities, along with some more structured activities for bigger kids. Perfect for future eco-warriors!
Available to download as a printable workbook at: https://www.plastic.org.au/collections/all/products/my-planet-workbook
Metta Play Bilingual and Affirmation Yoga Cards
These are gorgeous cards to help children aged 2 -7 learn yoga and another language through play. On every card is a beautiful illustration with text written in two languages. Use Metta Play cards on your own or with friends; indoors, outdoors or while you’re travelling; as long as you are having fun!
Available at: https://www.mettaplay.com
ORIGO Big Books
Maths – and stories?! This is a series of super engaging large-format mathematics storybooks for young learners that has now digitised to help parents and teachers engage children in this new ‘norm’ of online learning.
The digital Big Books feature an animated avatar of teachers, one of which is ORIGO Education co-founder and co-author of the Big Book series, James Burnett. The avatars not only read the stories, but they pause after each page to engage learners with thoughtful questions.
The idea is for kids to experience the fun of mathematics without feeling the pressure that they are actively learning. It’s a more enjoyable and natural way to learn, as children form an emotional bond with the characters in the books to help them understand new maths concepts. Who knew maths could be so fun?!
Available at: https://www.origoeducation.com.au/shop/
The Book Play Box
This is a monthly subscription box for children aged 4-7 years old designed to make reading fun! Each box contains a quality hardcover picture book plus a creative activity. Perfect for keeping children engaged and having fun while learning.
Available at: https://www.thebookplaybox.com/
