Balloonia by Audrey Wood

Where do balloons go at bedtime? Matthew has the answer. But Jessica wants to see for herself.

Benefits:
 
* provides imaginary explanations for natural occurrences
* contains humour
* discuss the importance of individuality and brother and sister relationships
* provides alternative possibilities for real life situations
* combines fantasy and real-life experiences (tying shoes, losing teeth, flying balloons and dressing up)
* fosters story-telling skills through familiar experiences (children can re-tell these stories very easily as the topics are meaningful to them)
* uses vocabulary to communicate feelings and stimulate imagination
* discusses many emotions and feelings important to children (eg. frustration of not being able to tie laces or feeling left out when the tooth fairy visits brother or sister)
- develops the ability to identify a problem and find the solution

Extended Thinking:

* in each book - identify the problem and change the solution
* discuss the relationship between Matthew and Jessica, the Princess and the Dragon
* go to the library and take out a book on simple magic tricks - try them at home - have a magic show for your family! (Presto Change-0)
* skip or dance to the beat in "Twenty Four Robbers"
* create real balloon animals and objects (Balloonia)

 *Art Work - humorous, colourful illustrations
*Soft Cover