Literacy

Fox And Fine Feathers Giveaway

When meeting author/illustrator Narelle Oliver at the Read Up launch recently, I might have mentioned that Miss 5 and I are kind of into birds… …which of course lead us into a discussion about Narelle’s award winning picture book, Fox and Fine Feathers, with her signature linocut illustrations.

2012 National Year of Reading – Read Up Launch

Do you love to read? Love encouraging your kids to read? 2012 will be full of exciting literary events because it is the National Year of Reading! Today the Moreton Bay Regional Libraries launched the Read Up program for under 8s.  To encourage kids to visit their local library and borrow on their own card, the Read Up program rewards children with special certificates designed by some of Queensland’s best illustrators.

Lily’s Wish

I have had the pleasure of meeting illustrator Serena Geddes, and watching her draw in front of a bunch of over-excited kids! She is utterly charming. Her latest picture book will certainly be much loved in our house – especially by Miss 5. This post is written by her…

Author-Illustrator Peter Carnavas

Peter Carnavas is one New Frontier‘s most celebrated author/illustrators – and rightly so.  His quirky illustrations and touching story lines warm the hearts of children and parents alike.  Four of his much-loved picture books have been re-released as Little Treasures.  These mini books come complete with an envelope ready for posting, and you can purchase them for $9.95 each, or all four for only $29.95!...

Outdoor Chalk Boards

An outdoor chalkboard is another project I have had on my to-do list for a while. I love the idea of children having lots of writing and drawing opportunities outdoors.  I often find that writing naturally flows outside without the pressure of a classroom environment or the constraints of A4 paper.  Chalk is inviting too, because of its non-permanent nature and its accessibility for little hands. (In fact, Mr 2 drew...

Fairy Fun

I spotted these popstick-girl-shapes in a craft store, and grabbed a packet immediately.  I just knew they would come in handy for… well, for something!  When Miss 5 was recently at home sick they provided wonderful entertainment. I put out any sparkly collage materials I could find, as well as some fabric and PVA glue.  I also had a few leftover precut felt butterfly shapes which proved perfect for wings. ...

Backyard Letterbox

I have long had the idea of putting an actual letterbox in the backyard for the kids to use.  FINALLY I got around to it. Letter writing is such a great, purposeful literacy activity.  It provides a reason to write, and an incentive to write well because you want the recipient to be able to read their letter when they receive it! I picked up this letterbox from our local (big green) hardware store for around $12. ...

Backyard Treasure Hunt

There are lots of reasons why I love this activity, and why you should try it with your kids! It’s easy to set up. It’s exciting! It gets kids outside. It provides a purposeful reading opportunity. It can be modified for a range of ages.

Book of the Month: The Great Expedition

I’m a big fan of local author/illustrator Peter Carnavas.  Like myself, Peter is a primary school teacher so he knows what makes a great picture book.  With New Frontier behind him, Carnavas has been bringing out book after fabulous book.