The Kids’ bookZénande’s helping handsis written by Wendy Shelembe, a Creative Educational Strategist. It is illustrated by Subisuso Khumalo, designed by Samantha Garvie and edited by Sarah Heron with the help of the Book Dash. This book is talking about Zenande, a little kind girl, her mother, their neighbours and Gogo Zondi, an old woman. They teach parents and kids different life lessons. Here are some:
1. Outdoor playing is important for kids
Zenande loves playing outside with her toys. Playing outside gives children the chance to explore the natural environment and have adventures. Children can play games, test their physical limits, express themselves and build their self confidence. When children are outside, they probably have more space and freedom for big movements like running, jumping, kicking and throwing. Parents should always create a safe and suitable environment for their kids.
2. Parents should encourage kids to be curious
In the book, their house is flooded after a heavy rain. There is water everywhere and some of the house items are destroyed. She is astonished and asks her mother: What happened?
Why, what, when and how: children ask dozens of questions everyday out of curiosity and it is important to answer them all. Zenande's mother tries to answer all the questions.
3. Parents are model to their kids
Our kids want to be like us, so one of the best ways to teach kids about helping others is to model generous behaviors for and with them.
Show kids how excited you are to be kind, give back and find ways to donate or volunteer to help others. It is never too early to talk about giving back and helping others. Try starting the conversation about helping others when you are in a car, at dinner or during the bedtime routine.
4. Every child normally loves their parents.
Zenande gives a nice present to Gogo Zondi, her grandmother. It’s one of the signs of love. When children open their eyes after the birth, they see their parents first. They see them around everyday taking care of them. They could easily differentiate whatever their parents are doing for them no one else can do in the world.
By Boniface Dansou