Just So Stories

Hachette Australia

Oct 30, 2024 | 9780734421807 | RRP $24.99

Imprint: Lothian Books

I’m jumping waves at the beach with Dad.
If they’re small I can leap over their frothy peaks.
Easy!
But further out, when they’re big, you have to duck dive under.

We are always looking for ways in which to encourage our Smalls to be brave and take risks in order to learn new skills. This little person has Dad right by her side to learn how to swim in the ocean which, of course, is a very different thing to learning to swim in a pool. In fact, for many it is quite intimidating especially when the waves get bumptious.

But Maisie has a very good teacher in her Dad, who carefully guides her into the when to go over, and when to go under. Of course, it’s inevitable that one would get dumped. It happens to the best of us at some time and when Maisie does get smashed, she’s not so keen to try out her new under and over routine again.

But on the very last day of the beach holiday, with Dad’s quiet encouragement, she gives the ocean another go – and overcomes her anxiety. It’s exactly what we want our kiddos to do. Don’t give up, persevere and try again.

Of course, with a surf life saver resident, I love that there is back matter than outlines the very real and very important rules about swimming at the beach. As we head into summer and our long holidays, it’s superb addition to your reading list for Smalls to remind them not to give up, but also to be safe at our many beaches. With some lovely literary language and wonderful illustrations, as well as some teaching ideas, this gets a big 5 🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊 rating and for more information on keeping safe at the beach, check out SLS Australia.