After a trip to the Melbourne Zoo with my grandson Henry I created a photobook for him including the images that I took on the day. The distracting zoo backgrounds did not show the animals off in their true glory, so I experimented by replacing the backgrounds with painted backdrops - a big thank you to the artist Jai Johnson from DailyTexture.com.
A number of parents and grandparents asked for a copy for their children so I decided to adapt the images to create a published book that featured real photos of the animals presented in a more ‘arty’ setting. I have had the book reviewed by an early childhood educator who has tested it with rave reviews from her young students.
I have also developed an optional activity pack to accompany the book that consists of a carry case, a 2-sided easy-clean laminated placemat featuring all 18 of the animal's images, and a set of 36 animal cards (2 of each animal). These cards can be used for matching with the images on the placemat, and throughout the book, and for games of Snap and Memory.
Included in the activity pack is a double-sided laminated sheet with suggestions for activities for using the book, placemat and cards with children of different ages. These activities are an ideal opportunity to have fun interacting with your child, and at the same time building their skills of observation, memory, sorting, turn-taking and patience. As both a psychologist, and a grandparent, I am always keen to find ways to encourage children's development in a way that is fun for all.
The carry case which is designed to carry the book and the activity pack comes in the choice of two designs - a hard plastic case with clip openings or a soft plastic mesh sachet with a top zip.
Prices:
Book (without activity pack) $25 (+postage)
Kit with hard case activity pack (book, placemat, set of cards) $45 (+postage)
Kit with soft case activity pack (book, placemat, set of cards) $40 (+postage)
If you think this is something you would like to share with your own children, grandchildren or students please send me an email (jfpallant@gmail.com) and I can arrange to send you a copy.
For more information contact me at jfpallant@gmail.com
