Holly Sterling creates very recognizable, diverse characters and these are the perfect backdrop for this sensitively written guide which will be helpful in both home and school contexts. The situations depicted and described are recognisable and familiar to young readers. The body language is particularly well captured on the page which describes in child friendly terms what it feels like to be shy. The situations used as examples, in Poppy’s story attending a big occasion with her parents and in Matteo’s story attending a friend’s birthday party, are instantly familiar. What is shown and described is how a child might feel at first and how that might change during the event and how they can be supported to eventually enjoy the experience and learn strategies for dealing with new situations. The Story Words page is a simple glossary of words and expressions which really develop understanding. At the end of the book a Next Steps section with suggestions for activities and discussion will be very useful and the section where each story is summarised in four steps will be invaluable for modelling writing. The first of a must have series for the early years.
Have you ever felt shy with new people? Have you ever felt too nervous to join in with games at a party? Read about Mateo and Poppy, and what they did when they felt shy. This book focuses on being shy and all the feelings that this common emotion stirs up. The two stories, told from a childs point of view, help children identify and understand their feelings through everyday scenarios. Through questions for the reader, and advice, this books helps guide them and gently teaches them how to manage or overcome shyness. With fun, engaging illustrations the book reassures young readers, providing them with vocabulary to express and understand their feelings as they grow up and encounter different situations. Supporting text for parents and teachers ensure children get the most from the books.
