Written by Ngaere Roberts and illustrated by Christine Dale this New Zealand made book, Ko Kiwi mā, is surprisingly engaging.
As well as helping children with counting (1 to 10) Ko Kiwi mā supports learning te reo Māori by way of NZ fauna. Each object or animal is located in the environment in which it would normally be found such as the shell is on the beach and the kahawai is in the ocean.
The size is perfect for an adult and child to hold and look at together.
The high-contrast colour illustrations are eye-capturing.
It is ideal for joint reading times with toddlers and language extension. Any or all pages may well give rise to a toddler pointing, discussing or volunteering more information from his or her experience or lead to the teacher or kaiako sharing their own knowledge and stories.
The clear simple text and corresponding illustrations a child will soon be able to read this book by her or himself. For whole word reading and number recognition, Ko Kiwi mā is an ideal early reader.
Older children could be asked to read to younger peers, helping the literacy skills of both. Early childhood services could give this book to children who are transitioning to school to take home and read with their family.
At the end of the book is a counting chart for a child to use to reinforce learning.
Available from: OneTree House
ISBN: 9780473397067
Published: 2018
Price $20
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