The author of The Sorcerer's Apprenticeand Round Fish Square Bowlhas toiled and laboured over a special project - creating a children's e-book as an iPhone and iPad app, "Sweet and Sour Pork".
It is bright, comical and thoughtful take, all in a neat little package.
Picture Book Examples:
Welcome to a small corner of Reading Picture Books.The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (Tom Skinner and Annie White) and Round Fish Square Bowl (Tom Skinner and Mini Goss) are two examples demonstrating how you can increase the enjoyment a picture book brings a child. Connecting picture books with literacy, life and creativity stretches their imagination and love of reading.
Encourage their Choices:
Children often have their own favourite picture books, which they love you to read to them not just once, but many times over – until you’re the one begging for a new story. It’s these special books which are ideal in encouraging and inspiring your child's creativity. There are many authors, publishers, websites and activity books filled with ideas for you to access.
Creative Story-telling:
No matter what age your child is, their literacy starts with you. Reading picture books together is an experience, which nurtures bonding, delight, laughter and as they grow - questions. Don't be shy - delight in creating sounds, exclamations, movements and simple props to help captivate their senses and attention. Hand or finger puppets that are adaptable over many picture book themes are a great stand-by to bring the story alive.
Life and Creativity:
The third page on this site shows how a couple of craft ideas or a word activity can be formed from the themes of The Sorcerer's Apprentice and Round Fish Square Bowl.
Using recycled materials gathered from around your home, which your child identifies with, helps to link their own life with a special picture book. Peppered with a little imagination, a few objects can be turned into wonderful creations. It not only builds their liiteracy but also their self-esteem.
Books make fantastic gifts:
Picture books form the basis of literacy development skills in your child for life, which then leads towards a greater education and opportunities. So, read to your child daily. Their language will stretch and develop with new words and conversation. Involve them in discussions about the picture books they're interested in or what it is about a book they didn't like. Sometimes, something will frighten them. It is real to them - listen and accept their view; giving them reassurance and a foundation of security.
Love your local library:
Become regular visitors to your local library. When your child is old enough, sign them up to receive their own library card. Encourage your child to join in with the story telling, activities or author visits and competitions. Take the opportunity to read information brochures your library offers. Get to know the librarians - they are a wonderful source of information for your child's age group and interests.
There are two people that have helped make Reading Picture Books come alive with their input, passion and depth of experience through encouraging childrens' literacy. They are –
