This table is a rough guide only because individual children’s language and attention develop at different rates. Many books can be adapted for different age groups by the reader (please scroll down for suggestions on how to do this). If you read children a broad age range of books it will develop their language skills and extend their attention span. Overall, let their interest be your guide.
These are planned resources, so some may not eventuate due to funding and time constraints.
Digitised eBooks for all families (that can be used on or offline on tablets, iPads and all computers or printed in hard copy). These books will also have an Auslan Keyword Signing version available, along with audio and video readings for download.
Interactive web books with games and activities for all families (that can be used on tablets, iPads and all computers)
Targeted eBooks for specific families (that can be used on or offline on tablets, iPads and all computers or printed in hard copy)
These eBooks are only available in the parent programs and are only for families where a parent has returned home with an injury and/or a mental health condition. They should not be used with other children or families. These books will also have audio and video readings for download.
PDF eBooks for all families (that can be used on or offline on all tablets, iPads or any computer or printed in hard copy). Books marked with an asterisk will also have audio and video reading for download.
Activity books for all families (that can be used on or offline on tablets, iPads and all computers or printed in hard copy)
Tips for extending the age range of books
Reading younger books to older children:
E.g. Mary’s alphabet slippery dip:
- Ask 4–year–olds to trace the letters and help ‘read’ the story once they know the pattern. They can often guess from the pictures and it will help them to learn their alphabet.
- Ask 5–year–olds to read the book once they know the pattern. Once mastered, they could read it to their younger siblings, dolls or toys. Ask them to do a recording of themselves reading the book to send to their parent who is away, grandparents, extended family or friends.
Reading older books to younger children
If the book has a key first line, just read the first line. Leave out any extra explanations in brackets, or extra lines that explain the first line. Talk about the picture with the child. After a few readings, you can add a little bit more information, using the child’s interest as your guide. Children love words and learning about language. Don’t be afraid of reading older books to younger children if they are interested in them. Their language development will flourish if they are exposed to a variety of text styles and ages and plenty of interaction about the book and the pictures with you.
Other pages
Explore other resources:
- children’s resources
- educator’s and family worker resources
- parent’s resources
- Auslan Keyword Signing resources (for those with disability or language delays, or those wanting to learn Auslan Keyword Signing)
- academic and policymaker resources
New resources being created:
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