You can almost hear a similar buzz emanating from the cover of this new picture book.

In spring it’s alive with bees and you can hear them busily working long before you reach the tree. One of my favourite weekend walks takes me past a goat willow or pussy willow tree that my partner and I call ‘the buzzing tree’. Like previous titles, both books have Cristina Trapanese’s lively illustrations, a spread with helpful ideas for adult users and a glossary. It encourages questioning, problem solving, taking advantage of technology, developing good concentration, trying hard and taking risks with learning, as well as keeping the mind open to new ideas. This is a huge topic that begins at birth and continues throughout life but to get the most from it, that learning needs to excite the learners and that’s what this little book aims to do. Inclusive, engaging and interactive, as is Learning.

There are also spreads on allergies, doing things in your own way, being aware of and avoiding potential dangers, the helpers who might provide treatment when there’s an accident or illness, and finally, very important comes sleep. There’s personal hygiene washing and tooth brushing, eating ‘wholesome’ food and drinking plenty, taking exercise that works their muscles, as well as engaging in mood boosting activities, getting out in the sun whenever possible.

Using age-appropriate language, Helen Mortimer takes little ones through the day doing those activities that should foster their Being Healthy. This series is special not only because it focuses on feelings in a child-friendly way, but also because it's from Oxford, it's packed with educational goodness that helps children develop and grow.These are two new titles in the Big Words for Little People series that offers a very useful resource to early years teachers and other practitioners as well as parents of young children. Each book includes reassuring tips on how to enjoy these books, encourage conversation and build language confidence.

The engaging art style, fun characters and hardback picture book feel make this series accessible and perfect to share. Using carefully chosen words and phrases, such as 'belonging' and 'be loyal', it creates a special moment for grown-ups and young children to focus on what it means to be a friend and nurture friendships.Ĭhildren can discover and understand new words to help them to talk about the ups and downs of first experiences and new emotions with confidence. This little book on Friendship is the next instalment of an exciting new series exploring big topics with young children in a way that feels good.

Friendship by Helen Mortimer