We Are All Neighbours
Alexandra Penfold (Author), Suzanne Kaufman (Illustrator) (2022) London: Bloomsbury Children’s Books
This book is written in simple rhyme and asks the question: What is a community? It has some lovely illustrations which you can talk about with the children and celebrates the diversity of a community. Here is an example of the rhyming text:
What is a community?
It’s a place for you and me.
Come along and you’ll see.
We are all neighbours here.
If buying the book be aware that there is a UK and US version with minor differences, particularly in spelling.
Helping Every Child to Thrive in the Early Years: How to Overcome the Effect of Disadvantage
Maureen Hunt (2022) Abingdon: Routledge.
This book is primarily aimed at educators in reception and Key Stage 1, although it offers some very helpful advice and guidance which all early years educators would find useful. Considering subjects like inclusion, Parent partnerships and supporting children with additional needs, Maureen shares her experience and expertise in an easy to read fashion. My favourite chapter explores vision and values and helps us to articulate our vision for our provision.
The Hundred Languages of Children: The Reggio Emilia Approach – Advanced Reflections
Carolyn Edwards, Lella Gandini, George Forman, (1998) Ablex Publishing Corporation, USA.
Although an old book, this book is a very interesting read, particularly if you have an interest in the Reggio Emilia approach. It explores this approach in detail, explaining the background and what we can learn from Reggio Emilia. It also includes interviews with educators from Reggio Emilia who explain their philosophy and reflections on the theory and practice in Reggio. One of the key elements of this approach is its focus on the child as part of a community and children from Reggio Emilia settings famously engage with their local community to co-create projects together. If you are interested in engaging the community in creative ways, you can certainly learn from this book!
JoJo & Gran Cook Together
JoJo & Gran is the first British-made animated show to feature a black family at its centre. It is based on characters created by Laura Henry-Allain MBE, whose own grandmother inspired the character of Gran Gran. Each episode shows a loving relationship a grandmother has with her granddaughter, a celebration of their shared world heritage and wonderful introduction to key preschool first experiences.
JoJo adores her grandma, Gran Gran, and they love to spend time together while JoJo’s Mummy and Daddy are at work. Gran Gran always has something exciting planned when JoJo comes to visit.
Each picture book will retell the story of a well-loved TV episode, followed by a picture glossary and activity spread to encourage readers to take the themes from the book into their everyday.
My Family, Your Family
My Family, Your Family is a powerful non-fiction book that focuses on what makes a family, explores how different families come together and celebrates the idea that every family is unique.
Specifically written by Early Years expert and children’s media creator, Laura Henry-Allain, ‘My Family, Your Family’ aims to help children and adults have meaningful discussions on family and belonging in an accessible and approachable way.