Swings + Roundabouts Spring 2023

Mindfulness At Play Written by Dr Stephen McKenzie & Angela North Exisle Publishing; RRP: $34.99 Paperback Although the book mentions ‘parenting’ in the title, there are many strategies for those who teach, from toddlers to teens and beyond. The strategies offered are easy and effective ways to incorporate the benefits of mindfulness into day-to-day life from practical examples, case studies and activities. The book includes strategies to support both adults and children to manage emotions, develop resilience, increase self-acceptance and self-esteem, develop positive relationships and support positive limit setting. Plus some great resources at the back of the book from a recommended toy list (simple inexpensive options), mindfulness games and stories. Every time I opened the page I read something that was either insightful or practical that I could use in my teaching practice or affirmed current practices. The text is written in simple text, is approachable and a great reminder to slow down and to open our hearts! Dusty the Digger: Nee Naw and Friends Written by Deano Yipadee Illustrated by Bruce Potter Scholastic; RRP: $21.99 Paperback From the creator of the bestselling Nee Naw books, comes a fun new character, Dusty the Digger that young children will love. Dusty the Digger has an easy-to-sing melody and the usual catchy refrain like all Nee Naw books. This is available to be streamed or downloaded from most digital music sites. The rhyming and nonsensical tale, along with its bright and funny illustrations will be wellloved and oft-requested by tamariki 2+. You Don’t Know How Lucky You Are / Me i mōhio koe ki tō waimarietanga Written by Belinda O’Keefe Illustrated by Ross Kinnaird Translated by Te Ama-Rere-Tai Rangihuna Oratia Books; RRP: $21.00 Paperback This is a fun book that connects young people with the experience of their grandparents’ generation when an accident-prone child is consoled and distracted by her Great-uncle’s tales of the trials he encountered when a boy – along with some quite tall tales! As the story gets wilder, his greatniece starts to wonder if her Great-uncle may be exaggerating somewhat! The bright cheerful illustrations match the humorous text. This bilingual book is perfect for tamariki 3+. Tuatara, A Living Treasure Written by Katie Furze Illustrated by Ned Barraud Scholastic NZ; RRP: $21.99 Paperback Tuatara are fascinating creatures and can capture the imagination of many a dinosaur-loving fan. Tuatara, A Living Treasure, offers young children a way into finding out more about this ancient survivor by following a story of a young tuatara’s journey from a hatchling to laying her own eggs. Each page offers interesting fact boxes, and at the back of the book includes a historical background and more tuatara facts. The stunning illustrations are detailed, and really brings the story alive. For tamariki 3+. August 2023 { 41 }

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