Tag: kids books

Why Books Make the Best Christmas Presents for Children
Opinion

Why Books Make the Best Christmas Presents for Children

Featured admin

As Christmas approaches, parents, grandparents, and friends often search for the perfect gifts that bring joy, inspire creativity, and have lasting value. In a world full of flashy toys and electronic gadgets, it’s easy to overlook one of the simplest yet most rewarding gifts you can give a child: a book. Now, as an author, I may be a tad biased!! But here’s why I think books make the best Christmas presents for children, and why they’ll always be a timeless choice under the tree.

1. Encouraging a Lifelong Love of Reading

Giving a child a book can spark a love of reading that will last a lifetime. Books offer an immersive experience that nurtures the imagination, helps children develop empathy, and broadens their understanding of the world. And! By starting them on this journey when young, you’re planting the seeds for a habit that not only benefits their education, but also becomes a source of lifelong pleasure.

2. Books Are Educational, But Never Boring

While many gifts focus on entertainment, books strike the perfect balance between fun and learning. Whether it’s a fantastical adventure, a beautifully illustrated picture book (ahem, like mine!), or an educational story, children are learning new things without even realising it. From vocabulary building to learning problem-solving skills, books engage their brains in ways that screen-based gifts simply can’t.

3. They Encourage Family Bonding

The gift of a book can be an invitation to quality time. Reading together as a family, whether it’s a bedtime story or a shared reading adventure, creates moments of bonding that are irreplaceable. It’s a chance for parents and children to connect, unwind, and share the magic of storytelling. I was never a huge fan of bedtime story time, but Thea and I would often curl up on the sofa in the afternoons to read together.

4. Nurture the Imagination

Books are the ultimate playground for the mind. A great story encourages children to dream, to put themselves in others’ shoes, and to see the world from new perspectives. While toys may offer a few hours of entertainment, a book provides endless adventures and characters that linger in their imaginations long after the last page has been turned.

5. They Can Be Personalised

One of the unique aspects of books as gifts is the ability to tailor them to the child’s interests or even personalise them. Whether it’s a story about dinosaurs, fairies, space travel, or everyday adventures, there’s a book for every child. Some publishers even offer personalised books where the child becomes the hero, adding a special touch to their Christmas present.

6. A Break from Technology

In a world where children are increasingly surrounded by screens, giving a book provides a much-needed break from technology. It’s a chance for children to engage with a physical object, turn the pages themselves, and let their imagination take over without the overstimulation that often comes from digital devices. Often Thea and I come to agreements that she’ll read for 30 minutes then she can use a device for 30 minutes. It works for us!

7. A Gift That Lasts

While some toys or gadgets may break or lose their appeal after a few weeks, books are a gift that endures. A cherished book can be read over and over again, shared with siblings or friends, and even passed down through generations. For younger children, picture books become a comforting presence, while older kids can revisit their favourite stories as they grow.

8. Books Teach Important Life Lessons

Beyond the enjoyment, books often teach children valuable life lessons—about kindness, friendship, perseverance, and empathy. A well-chosen book can help a child navigate tricky situations in life or reinforce positive behaviour in a way that’s meaningful to them. Again, although a tad biased, if you’re looking for books that teach children about equality, diversity, inclusion or acceptance, I can highly recommend my books!

9. Inspiring Creativity

Reading isn’t a passive activity; it requires a child to actively engage their mind. When children read, they visualise characters and settings, hear the voices of the story’s characters in their heads, and imagine the twists and turns of the plot. This kind of creative engagement is crucial for a child’s cognitive and emotional development.

10. A Sustainable, Thoughtful Gift

Finally, in a season often filled with excess, books make for a thoughtful, sustainable gift. They don’t rely on batteries or contribute to clutter. And if you’re looking for an eco-friendly Christmas, choosing books over plastic toys can be a step in the right direction.

And so…

Books are more than just presents; they are little windows into other worlds, keys to knowledge, and friends for life. This Christmas, consider popping a few titles under the tree for the children in your life. Particularly given that my books are currently on sale in the run up to Black Friday! You’re not only giving your tiny humans something to unwrap on Christmas morning—you’re giving them the gift of imagination, learning, and countless hours of joy.

Which one will put under the Christmas tree this year?

https://theachopsbooks.com/product/shes-not-good-for-a-girl-shes-just-good/
https://theachopsbooks.com/product/how-frank-helped-hank-copy/
https://theachopsbooks.com/product/the-queen-engineer/

Equality Issues · Opinion

The Effects of Toxic Masculinity on Women

Featured admin

Sometimes, people ask me why I wrote How Frank Helped Hank.

And the simple answer was I learned about toxic masculinity and the negative effect is has on boys and men.

But in researching the subject, I also learned about the negative effect it has on women.

Toxic masculinity doesn’t just harm men—its impact on women is equally damaging. When boys are told not to “act like girls” by showing their emotions, or engaging in certain activities (for example boy who love to dance, or play with dolls), the underlying message for girls is that being feminine is lesser.

These subtle reinforcements and they are of course subtle – generally in life we are shaped by many many micro moments – shape how girls view themselves from a young age. Often for young girls, internalising the idea that femininity is weak or undesirable, can lead to feelings of inadequacy, pushing pushing to question their worth, especially in male-dominated spaces. This continues throughout the teenage years and into womanhood, until we almost believe it ourselves that we are less than.

And as girls grow into women, the effects become more pronounced.

Women may avoid leadership roles or downplay their achievements in fear of being seen as overly aggressive or unfeminine. Relationships, too, are affected, as women may feel their emotional needs are devalued or dismissed, leading to an unhealthy imbalance where they aren’t taken seriously. The ripple effect of toxic masculinity impacts gender dynamics at every level, making it harder for men and women to relate as equals.

Both genders suffer, but often people assume that toxic masculinity only affects men.

But the impact on women is equally damaging and the cost is often in their emotional well-being and self-worth.

I wrote How Frank Helped Hank thinking it would be a book for little boys, but realised just like my other books, it’s a book for all children, regardless of their gender.

I’d love to know your thoughts.

Suze

Dress up as The Queen Engineer on World Book Day 2024
Events · Opinion · Teachers

Dress up as The Queen Engineer on World Book Day 2024

Featured Suzanne Hemming

If you’re like most parents, and you have just thought: how can there be only 48 hours until World Book Day 2024 and what on earth are they going to dress up as?!?

Fear not! I’ve got you! The Queen Engineer is here!

Take a look at Princess Flo, she’s a maths and science loving princess, who doesn’t want to be the queen when she grows up. She wants to be a great engineer!

Flo’s outfit is pretty easy to replicate, especially if you have either an old Elsa dress-up or a Cinderella outfit in the back of the kids’ wardrobe! Because really, it’s just a long blue dress and a pair of red wellies!

You could add a construction hat if you have one of those in the dress up box too. Chances are you’ll have a yellow one, and Flo’s is white; but we won’t tell anyone!

And if you also have a cape, and a sceptre, well Bob’s your auntie’s live in lover!

World Book Day doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune on a costume.

Any blue dress would work just as well, like this:

I haven’t put any links on there – this isn’t any kind of sponsored post! I just did a quick google and found a couple of of reasonably priced dresses. But you might even have something suitable in the kids’ wardrobe already. There might even be a long sleeved T Shirt of your own that would double as a dress!

As an author I LOVE World Book Day. As a parent, it’s more a case of GAH!!! Helping our tiny humans with a World Book Day outfit can feel stressful; but it doesn’t have to be!

I really hope these suggestions have helped and as always, I would LOVE to see your pictures! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theachopsbooks/ or email me your photos to suze@theachopsbooks.com

Happy World Book Day everyone! Have a good one. And keep reading!

Embrace the Magic of Reading on World Book Day
Opinion · Teachers

Embrace the Magic of Reading on World Book Day

Featured Suzanne Hemming

As World Book Day approaches on March 7th, I find myself thinking about the profound impact that reading has on our tiny humans.

So today, I want to talk about the importance of reading to and with babies and children. And why it’s beneficial for schools to invite authors into their classrooms to share the joy of storytelling.

Reading to kids is not just about entertaining them with colourful pictures and playful words.

It’s a gateway to a world of imagination, knowledge, and emotional development:

  1. Building Bonds: Reading aloud to babies can create a special bond between the parent and child. The soothing rhythm of a story has a calming effect, and fosters a sense of security and attachment.
  2. Language Development: Reading plays a huge in language development. Babies and toddlers who are read to regularly tend to have larger vocabularies and better language skills when they start school.
  3. Cognitive Skills: Reading stimulates the brain and helps develop essential cognitive skills such as attention, memory, and problem-solving abilities. It lays the foundation for academic success later in life. There’s a reason teachers often say if you just do one thing at home with your kids; it’s read to them!
  4. Imagination and Creativity: Stories have the ability to spark the imagination and ignite creativity in young minds. They transport children to magical worlds where anything is possible, which encourages them to dream big and feel inspired.
  5. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Books are powerful tools for teaching empathy and emotional intelligence. Through stories about other places and people, children learn to understand and relate to the feelings of others, which encourages compassion and kindness.
  6. Critical Thinking: Reading encourages children to ask questions, make predictions, and draw conclusions. All critical thinking skills that are essential for navigating the complexities of the world.
  7. Cultural Awareness: Exposure to diverse stories and characters promotes cultural awareness and understanding, helping children to develop respect for everyone.
  8. Lifelong Love of Learning: When reading is associated with joy and wonder, children are more likely to continue reading for pleasure throughout their lives.

Just a few reasons eh?!

And so to World Book Day! One of the ways that schools can nurture a love of reading is by inviting authors into their classrooms.

Suzanne Hemming children's author at a school book reading
  1. Inspiration and Role Models: Meeting an author can inspire children to see themselves as writers and storytellers. It shows children that their own stories and ideas are valuable and worth sharing.
  2. Connection to the Creative Process: Hearing an author talk about their own work provides an insight into the creative process behind the story. Children learn that books don’t magically appear on shelves but are the result of hard work, imagination, and dedication.
  3. Interactive Learning Experience: Author visits can turn reading into a lively and interactive experience. Children have the opportunity to ask questions, share thoughts, and engage with the story in a meaningful way. This is always one of the best parts of visiting a school as an author: kids can ask the most amazing questions!
  4. Promotion of Literacy: Author visits reinforce the importance of literacy and reading for pleasure. This can create excitement around books and reading, motivating children to explore new stories and genres.

Reading is a superpower! Once a child can read, the world is their oyster! As an author, I think I have a responsibility to share my love of storytelling, and reading with the next generation. That’s why I love to I hear from primary school teachers enquiring about reading to their classes.

So let’s celebrate World Book Day by embracing the magic of reading and inspiring young minds to embark on their own literary adventures.

If you’re an Early Years or a KS1 teacher and you’d like to know more about booking me for a school visit, please email me at suze@thechopsbooks.com or read more here

World Book Day: Meet the Author
Events · Teachers

World Book Day: Meet the Author

Featured Suzanne Hemming

Ahead of World Book Day on 7th March, and a week when as an author, my favourite thing to do is to go into schools and read to children, I thought you might like to know a little more about this author!

Tell us about your writing career to date.  

I began writing in a blog when my daughter was little, as a way to get my thoughts about parenting out of my head – because as wonderful as parenting is, it can be tough right?! And it kind of progressed from there.

I’d written about the old fashioned nature of some classical fairy tales, and the out of date messages they send our children, and I had a go at rewriting one: I turned Cinderella into Ella and the iPhone, and at the end, when she’s reunited with her lost phone as the thumb print fits, she tells the prince that she just wants to be friends as she’s off to uni.

After that I began playing around with a few ideas, and Thea Chops Books was born.

What made equality & inclusivity so important to you? 

Because it’s really important for all of us: all human beings deserve to be treated equally, fairly, and with respect. Once I started to see injustices in the world, I couldn’t unsee them. I knew I wanted to do something that would help create change.

How do you incorporate these themes into your books? 

Hopefully with some humour! Mostly by choosing something, for example, the idea that what girls and boys like is determined by their gender, and challenging the ideas, in rhyme.

So, in my first book, ‘She’s Not Good for a Girl, She’s Just Good!’, the character of Frank tells Florence that girls are rubbish at sport, because that’s what his dad says. Florence challenges him and together they learn that you can be good at, and enjoy something, regardless of being a boy or a girl. Florence is good at some things, and Frank is good at others.

How can families introduce these themes into their children’s book collections? 

Well, buying our books would be a great start! But also, a quick google of say, ‘kids’ books about equality’ will bring up a whole list of fabulous options.

Parents might think these themes are too mature for children – what’s your response to that? 

Only if talked about in a non-age-appropriate way. How we discuss anything with a 2-year-old, is different to how we talk to an 8-year-old, or a 15-year-old. And kids are very literal, and accepting, so actually these conversations tend to be easier than we think.

When our old babysitter got married to her wife, my daughter commented that she looked like a princess in her dress. Then she asked me why her prince has long hair; and when I said she’s marrying another princess, because sometimes two women fall in love and choose to get married, my daughter, aged 2 1/2 replied, ‘okay’ and carried on watching the wedding. It was that simple a conversation.

Children are curious and bound to ask questions, how do you suggest parents and care givers respond? Do you have any good anecdotes? 

When I first talked to my daughter about periods, the minute I used the word ‘egg’ she said, “Like a chicken?! Am I a chicken?!” it made us both laugh out loud. Even though through the laughter I managed to say, you’re not a chicken, we then clucked at each other for a bit, and I got the sense she wasn’t quite ready for the conversation.

The best way to respond, though, is honesty. And to keep it simple. Also pause after you’ve said something; don’t feel like you have to go into huge detail and explain it all in one go. If in the pause your child has another question, answer that one, but you might find that first response was enough, and they move onto something else.

But this is another reason why seeking out books is a great way to start these conversations. Other people have written about this for us! Reading with our children will either spark some questions, or provide a moment for you to ask, what did you think about that?

Favourite author writing in the same genre as you.

I love everything that Andrea Beaty does. I met her once at a reading in a local bookshop and totally fangirl-ed her!

So that’s a little about me – an author who would love to come to your primary school and read! If you’re a parent and you’re reading this please email your child’s school and ask them to get in touch with me at suze@theachopsbooks.com If you’re a teacher, and you’re still looking for an author for World Book Day 2024 or any other week of the year, please also drop me a line!

This interview was first published on the East Green Childcare Services website ahead of World Book Day in March 2023.

The Crucial Role of Childhood Reading: A Gateway to Academic & Emotional Success
Opinion · Teachers

The Crucial Role of Childhood Reading: A Gateway to Academic & Emotional Success

Featured Suzanne Hemming

Hello there fellow parents, key stage 1 primary school teachers and bookworms!

Let’s talk about the impact reading has on both the intellectual, and emotional development of our tiny humans.

We know that there are huge benefits to encouraging a love of reading from an early age; reading lays the foundations for a future of academic success and emotional intelligence. Here are a few ways our little ones benefit from it:

📚 The Dance of the Synapses:

We see: a child engrossed in a colourful storybook, eyes wide, faces smiling. Behind the scenes: their brain is performing a dazzling dance of synapses. According to scientists, children who read books have amazing neural pathways because reading sparks connections, setting the stage for a lifetime of learning.

🎓 School Prep:

We know that children who develop a love for reading early on have the ability to breeze through school with confidence. Reading for pleasure is like a secret weapon, it equips our tiny humans with vocabulary skills that can help to make their school journey a smooth one. Studies show that kids who cozy up with books often outperform their non-reading pals in various subjects.

🌈 The Colours of Empathy:

In early education, teachers believe in nurturing not just intellect but also hearts: reading stories about characters from different walks of life allows our kids to think about families and situations different to theirs… This encourages empathy, which helps to make our little learners compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

📈 You like stats:

According to the wizards of research, children who read for pleasure every day perform better in their academic tests. Reading is like a growth spell for their minds, boosting vocabulary, comprehension, and even mathematical skills. So, if you want your child to soar academically, just hand them a book!

🚀 A Launchpad to Lifelong Learning:

Reading ignites curiosity, fuels imagination, and turns each child into a fearless explorer of knowledge. It’s not just about letters on a page; it’s about ideas, dreams, and the infinite possibilities that unfold with every turn.

In short, reading is a wonderful magical gift! One that we should all encourage more of! And as I type that, I don’t just means, read more of may books… Other books are available! 😉 But obvs, you should definitely get my books for your tiny humans to read!! Don’t forget to let me know what they think about them!

You’ll find them here.

Enhancing Literacy at KS1: The Impact of Author Visits
Events · Teachers

Enhancing Literacy at KS1: The Impact of Author Visits

Featured admin

As World Book Day is fast approaching, let’s delve into the significance of reading at Key Stage 1, and talk about the benefits of author visits in schools. We know that the impact goes beyond the pages of a book, providing a valuable boost to encourage children to read.

The Importance of Book Reading at KS1

If you’re a primary school teacher reading this blog post, you already know that reading is a fundamental skill, that lays the foundation for academic success and lifelong learning. At KS1, children are in a crucial stage of development, where literacy skills are rapidly evolving. Book reading plays a pivotal role in honing language proficiency, expanding vocabulary, and fostering comprehension skills. I cannot tell you the number of times I’ve heard teachers say, if you just do one thing, read!

The question is, how can we maximise the impact of reading in the early years? One effective strategy is to introduce students to real-life authors through school visits. And by authors, I mean me!

Author Visits: A Practical Approach

The presence of an author in the school setting adds a practical dimension to the learning experience. Instead of just encountering words on a page, pupils have the opportunity to engage with the creator of those words. This interaction can demystify the writing process and make literature more relatable for young minds. When I read in schools it’s such a joy to hear children tell me about the stories they write, or want to write, after a book reading!

Authors can bring a unique perspective to storytelling, offering insights into their creative process and the inspiration behind their works. This firsthand exposure can really enhance a child’s appreciation for literature. And provides them with the idea that writing can be a career choice.

Boosting Engagement on World Book Day

World Book Day presents an ideal occasion to organise author visits. It’s not just about dressing up as favourite characters (which is a lot of fun!), but it’s an opportunity to connect with the individuals behind the stories. An author’s visit on this day can serve as a catalyst for increased interest in reading, making the celebration more meaningful for students.

The impact of author visits on reading engagement at KS1 is definitely something to think about! These visits provide a practical and relatable dimension to the world of literature, fostering a deeper connection between students and the written word. A visit from an author can contribute significantly to the development of a generation of enthusiastic and lifelong readers.

So! Why not book a visit from an author today – preferably me! We’re talking about booking me here right?! Good we’re on the same page!

Just drop me an email at suze@theachopsbooks.com

See you in the classroom!

Suzanne Hemming children's author at a school book reading

World Mental Health Day – How to Use How Frank Helped Hank to talk about mental wellbeing
Teachers

World Mental Health Day – How to Use How Frank Helped Hank to talk about mental wellbeing

admin

World Mental Health Day 2023 is on 10th October.

If you're using this day and the surrounding week to discuss mental welling with your pupils, we're sure you'll agree that books are a great way to start these conversations in the classroom (and at home!).

There are so many wonderful books by brilliant authors that talk about mental health in a very age appropriate way. But it won't come as any surprise that we would recommend our most recent book How Frank Helped Hank.

The key message is the importance of talking about how we feel, and not bottling up and battling on. It models the ELG of showing sensitivity to both one's own and other's needs.  While giving children (& adults!) permission to cry without fear of mockery, thus supporting their mental health. 

Frank's dad Hank, doesn't think boys should cry

This is a great moment to say, "oh I'm not sure I agree with that do you? What do you think? Is it okay to cry if you feel sad or hurt?" Asking if they can think of any reasons why Hank would think this, is a great segue in the next section of book where learn a little more about Hank's childhood.

Hank tells Frank he shouldn't like "girls' things"

All people should be allowed to live unapologetically as their true selves! One of the lines in the book is "for good mental health you should just be yourself". This is also a great opportunity to debunk the idea that there are toys for girls and toys for boys! Why shouldn't Frank choose a sparkly wand?!

Frank encourages his dad to show his feelings

This part of the story is a great time to talk about not keeping our feelings bottled up inside. Frank knows that letting it out and having a good cry is a great way to feel better. I also love that it's the child who is caring for and teaching the parent here. Kids will love that too! We an all help each out when we're sad!

If you're talking to your pupils this week about mental wellbeing, we'd love to hear about how you used How Frank Helped Hank, to support your teaching. Please leave a comment below, or come and find us on Instagram, Facebook and Threads.

We're @theachopsbooks on all platforms. 

 

Thea Chops Books

You can also buy How Frank Helped Hank on Amazon and via Peter's

Children's author Suzanne Hemming doing an author reading in a school How to Book an Author Reading for Primary Schools
Events · Teachers

How to Book an Author Reading for Primary Schools

Featured Suzanne Hemming

Are you sitting comfortably?

Listening ears on?

Let me tell you about book readings. As a children’s author they are SO important. They allow me to actually talk to the tiny humans for whom I write.

And for the children, research (from the Society of Authors) has shown that 99.4% of schools who host an author visit said it was an invaluable experience that encouraged reading for pleasure, wider reading and creative writing.

So as a primary school teacher, how can you you book me for a school reading?

Very simply, please email me or fill in the contact form here

But if you’re wondering about how it all works, here’s a bit more info for you:

What will it cost?

For the majority of London postcodes the fee for a 2 hour visit (which allows for up to 3 readings, each lasting 30-40 minutes) is £175.

For schools which are further than 1 hour travel time from SE22, additional fees will apply.

Which school years would enjoy your books?

Reception and years 1 and 2 will enjoy all 3 rhyming story books.

Years 3 and 4 also, who will will enjoy discussions about equality and wellbeing. 

What are the books about?

The Queen Engineer has a strong STEM element, and a female lead character, which works well with science (e.g. engineering, problem solving), design and technology (e.g. discussing how levers and forces work), as well as PSHE discussions about for example, resilience and perseverance, or knowing right from wrong. 

How Frank Helped Hank can facilitate discussions about feelings during transition periods, or anxiety around benchmarking or SATs times, or for the All About Me topic.  It strongly promotes the importance of talking, for mental wellbeing during Children’s Mental Health Week and Mental Health Awareness Week. 

She’s Not Good for a Girl, She’s Just Good! supports personal development along with acceptance of one another’s talents and skills. It’s great for June and July  to discuss feelings around competition or the pressure associated with Sports Day. 

So calling all key stage 1 and 2 teachers, and nursery teachers, and well all primary school teachers! If you’d like to book in for an author reading of any of our current books, please do get in touch.

Suzanne Hemming children's author at a school book reading

“We can’t wait to have Suzanne back to read us her next book!”

The Gower School, London

You can buy books for your school via Peters

All About Me Lesson Topic
Teachers

All About Me Lesson Topic

admin

Before children start school, they often believe that they are the centre of the universe! Some may never have been into a classroom or educational setting before, and this can be daunting. To ease their journey into education, when lesson planning, many teachers choose topics that kids are familiar with, and All About Me is often chosen first.

In our book, The Queen Engineer, Princess Florence has a very strong sense of who she is, what she enjoys, and who she wishes to be when she grows up. She's able to discuss her hopes and aspirations with a trusted adult, and in turn finds a way to discuss it with her father, the King. The King doesn't believe that girls should enjoy maths, or become scientists or engineers, which also opens up early discussions about equality, and out-dated gender specific roles. This can be used to encourage children to aspire to do (or be) something that they wish to do, even if they may have been told: that's not for girls/boys. The story supports the Early Learning Goal of managing self: it shows Florence as independent and resilient, and able to persevere in the face of a challenge. It models the importance of talking about your feelings and aspirations with an adult, while showing a child how to accept adults who are different to her.

How Frank Helped Hank is a wonderful book for referencing during many lessons and topics, and especially so during All About Me. The key message in this story, is the importance of talking about how we feel, and not bottling it up and battling on. It models the ELG of showing sensitivity to both their own and other's needs.  All the while giving children and adults alike permission to cry without fear of mockery, thus supporting their mental health. It's a great text to encourage children to talk about themselves, their likes and dislikes, their feelings, and their family members, when they introduce themselves at the start of a new school year.

If you're planning the All About Me topic for an Early Years or Key Stage one lesson, we'd love to hear how you used either The Queen Engineer, or How Frank Helped Hank, to support your teaching. Please leave a comment below, or come and find us on Instagram or Twitter.

We're @theachopsbooks on both platforms. 

 

Thea Chops Books