The importance of books in early childhood learning is undeniable, but is also particularly useful for those with additional needs. From assisting with vocabulary development to providing auditory stimulation, Special Needs Resources have a wide range of books to suit diverse needs.
Books are a great way to increase general knowledge, to create an awareness of social norms, to stimulate vocabulary and language development, to engage with others and to learn. The Department of Education in Victoria has also outlined the benefits of reading in this document readtoyoungchild.pdf (education.vic.gov.au).
Books come in a variety of styles. Here at Special Needs Resources we have stocked a range of books that are designed to stimulate engagement, create an understanding of social interactions and general knowledge and discuss emotions and reactions and strategies of dealing with life situations. We feel that interactive reading is a fantastic way to connect, to inspire, to create understanding and enhance learning as well as being a lot of fun.
Books with Interactive Sound
Books that stimulate the auditory senses can create an awareness of sounds, where they come from, what they mean and how loud they are. Sound books can also create an interactive experience between the reader and listener, stimulate discussion and understanding and also be a fun experience.
Our books encourage sensory exploration through both touch and sound, with books such as https://specialneedsresources.com.au/product/five-cheeky-monkeys-finger-puppet-book/ offering tactile feedback through finger puppets. Other books such as https://specialneedsresources.com.au/product/50-button-mega-sound-book/ discuss transport types and the noises they make.
Sound books can also assist with language development, making these an ideal resource for children with speech delays. Hearing phrases or sounds repeatedly can help vocabulary development and speech imitation.
Our Ditty Bird range of musical books expose the listener to different types of music and lyrics, and they can make the choice of which songs they would like to listen to, the style of the music and what the lyrics are saying. There are books for bedtime, different types of instrumental and themed music all of which can be used to extend interaction through dance and singing and clapping.
‘Sometimes I Feel…’ Books
These six books explore how different emotions can appear and feel, to teach children effective emotional regulation and understanding their feelings from a young age. Knowing how to recognise different feelings can help children empathise, communicate and connect with others. They provide a tool to discuss what the feelings are, how to react and to normalise reactions to emotional situations. These books are easy to read and understand, making them an ideal resource that is both engaging and educational. Choose from Angry, Anxious, Wronged, Sad, Kind and Happy.
Colouring Books
Special Needs Resources has a wide range of colouring books that have several therapeutic benefits for children. Colouring-in has the benefit of developing those all important fine motor and pen control skills. Colouring books can also be a collaborative exercise, by adding a narrative and storytelling aspect while colouring-in. Ask your child to explain what they can identify in the picture, or to pick which colour should be used in certain areas and why. There is something for everyone in our colouring book range, including My Little Pony and Spiderman books. Browse the variety of styles on our website https://specialneedsresources.com.au/product-category/learning-resources/books-learning-resources/
‘10 Things I Love About…’ Books
A new addition to our range of products is these lovely books that encourage gratitude and a positive attitude in children. These easy-to-read books help parents, educators, guardians and children engage in meaningful conversations. The books feature fun, illustrated characters that provide scenarios for children to be reflective on their lives and those around them. This range of books is suitable for a variety of ages and circumstances as they explore a wide range of potentially difficult topics. Choose from Bedtime, Family, Preschool, School and Me.
Popular Books
If you’re unsure which book would suit your child’s needs, these are some of our favourites:
- Five Cheeky Monkeys Finger Puppet Book
- Life Lessons Books – Try Your Best & Forget the Rest, Sticks & Stones and You Get What You Get & You Don’t Get Upset!
- CoComelon How to Tie Your Shoes Book
- Trucks & Diggers Book and Magnetic Play
We pride ourselves on consistently updating our range of educational and engaging books. If there is something in particular you are looking for, feel free to reach out to us with any requests and/or feedback!