Fostering a sense of belonging in early childhood is crucial for the holistic development and wellbeing of young children. This set, comprised of two beautifully illustrated story books and an accompanying practical resource book, is for use with children aged 4-8 to help build strong connections and a sense of belonging.
The story books, Mia Belongs Here and School is Where We All Belong, focus on belonging at home and at school, introducing a cast of characters who show how they know they belong through the different senses (smell, taste, touch, hearing and sight). With engaging and captivating illustrations, children are encouraged to reflect and share the sensations and stories that help them feel like they belong.
The accompanying resource book expands on these narratives, offering detailed play-based activities and scenarios that allow children to experience and solve real-life problems through imaginative play. It is based on the Conceptual PlayWorld, an evidence-based model of intentional teaching developed by Professor Marilyn Fleer, and activities are inspired by research on relationship building, social and emotional competencies, and positive psychology. Each chapter introduces a new PlayWorld that draws on the characters introduced in the story books and includes detailed guidance on designing, planning and carrying out each narrative scenario.
Together, the books provide a comprehensive toolkit for educators to create immersive play environments that teach children about the importance of feeling included and valued. In a world of increasing rates of loneliness, disconnection and social isolation, opportunities to encourage a sense of belonging in children have never been more needed. This set will help teachers, practitioners and parents empower children to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Kelly-Ann Allen is an associate professor, educational and developmental psychologist, and belonging researcher at Monash University. You can find Kelly-Ann on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @drkellyallen. Resources for wellbeing and belonging can be found at www.drkellyallen.com.
Marilyn Fleer is an Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow and holds the foundation chair in early childhood education and development at Monash University. She researches in the areas of early childhood science, engineering, and technologies with particular attention on digital visual methodology framed through cultural-historical theory. @MarilynFleer is on Twitter and Facebook.
Lara McKinley is an award-winning content producer and communications manager at Monash University. She partners with researchers to translate their work to maximise engagement and impact. You can find Lara online on Twitter @Lara_McKinley and LinkedIn and via her website, www.laramckinley.com.
Michael Wagner is the author of over 90 books for children including the CBCA Honor book Dirt by Sea and the YABBA, KOALA and KROC Awards shortlisted, So Wrong series. He worked for ten years as radio broadcaster with the ABC and has written and produced award-winning animation for television.
Kathryn Kallady is an educational and developmental psychologist and illustrator. You can find Kathryn on Instagram: @psych.babble.bobble, Cara: @psykallady and Linked In. You can review her work via her website: www.psykallady.com
