One of my favourite picture books is The Straight Line Wonder by Mem Fox. This book lends it’s to so much fun for young children. Unfortunately, it is out of print, but it can be found on Youtube.
Activities For Parents At Home:
- Share the story with your little one.
- Then play an adapted version of the game Jump, Turn, Freeze and Twizzle. Go for a walk outside if you can, or just play around the house. Tell your little one that this game is going to require listening and quick thinking. Explain that you will use these four different commands and, of course, demonstrate and practise before you play.
- Walk = walk forward
- Freeze = stop as you are
- Turn = make a 180 degree turn and stop in place
- Jump = jump straight up
- Twizzle = do a 360-degree jump and stay in place
This game is great for encouraging gross motor skills and listening when playing outside close to busy streets. Remember to help each other up if your fall, encouraging playful, non-competitive play.
- Extra Suggestions: Snack – Use a cheese string (or any other stick, like a pretzel, pepperoni, carrot, etc.) with added facial features, grapes for eyes, a strawberry slice for lips. A yogurt dot for a nose! Have fun. Give all the items for your children and let them make their own!
- Art – Of course, drawing a straight line, and all the other lines in the book! Add facial features.
- Playtime – Use playdough to illustrate the different lines.