Camping at Yamba last weekend I went to see Moana 2. It was fun but two things I especially loved.
1. Maui’s song - Can I Get A Chee Hoo? Such a great motivational concept of levelling up. Reminded me of a video game, was super catchy and fun and I think kids will really get it.
It got me thinking about how when you are a kid you are levelling up all the time. Aussie kids especially need to keep levelling up around water. It’s a big part of our way of life so being confident around water is super important for safety. And it can also be heaps of fun. But for some kids pushing out of their comfort zone is scary. I was one of those kids.
So, with the first warm weather of summer leading up to the holidays I wanted to share three picture books that show the joy, courage and satisfaction that comes with doing something hard or scary in the water for the first time. Any one of them would make a wonderful gift.
🌊 Over or Under by @piphaz and @hilaryjeantapper (Lothian Children’s, 2024)
Over and Under is a new picture book that looks at learning to swim in the waves. In big surf every wave has you asking yourself – over or under? - and Maisy is learning this for the very first time.
☀️ Jetty Jumping by @andrearowe_coastwriter and @hannahmsommerville (Little hare, 2021)
Award winning Jetty Jumping looks at summer fun down at the jetty. Milla watches her friends jump off the jetty into the cool refreshing water but it’s a long way down and she is scared to try.
💦 Like a Gannet by @kirstenealand and @debi_hudson (Windy Hollow, 2024)
Like A Gannet is mine so I won’t go on about it. But it explores going off the diving board at the local pool for the first time and all the emotions little Francie goes through.
All three books have a retro feel that reminds me of long-ago summer days in the water with friends, carefree and full of freedom taking small safe risks by trying new things, but with parents or older kids nearby if you needed them.
Which reminds me of the second thing I especially loved...
2. The Yamba Cinema – all the retro 80’s childhood beach feels right there – no mall in sight with kids lined all the way up the street.
Happy reading! Happy swimming! Happy days!
