Meet the Illustrator: Adyna Ferre talks about character creation and animation

Christmas can be overwhelming for kids with Sensory Processing Disorder

Do you have a kid with SPD?  I do, I have 3!

Sensory overstimulation is common among kids who were premmie babies. Light and sound are the most common triggers, but they can be overstimulated by movement, scents, touch, taste, vibrations and electromagnetic fields.

For some kids, taking a few minutes time out will reset their system. For others, it doesn’t work that way. It can range from uncomfortable and intolerable. 

Sudden strong overstimulation triggers an immediate surge of adrenaline, anxiety and sometimes nausea. Lower levels can creep up and the consequences can last a couple of days. 

Now, imagine if this was you...at Christmas. The lights, sounds and busy crowds start way before the 1st of December these days. Christmas is meant to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for some kids, it’s a constant battle to process the world around them.

What can we do to help?

It’s difficult to avoid, and really not fair to miss out on the fun of Christmas. Gradual increase in tolerance often comes with exposure and age, in a sensory friendly environment. This Christmas, if you are having an event at your work or home, maybe provide a tent or quiet corner for kids to retreat and reset. 

If you see a child having a meltdown, don’t always assume it’s bad behaviour. It could be the world is just too bright or too loud at that moment. Respect a parent who is limited in what they can do to stop it.

We will be hosting a book launch on the 1st of December at Little Gnome for my latest picture book, Little Gnome’s Christmas Wish, a book about a little gnome with sensory processing disorder who loves Christmas but struggles with the lights, noise and crowds. 

Children of all abilities are welcome to come and share an inclusive sensory friendly experience of the real meaning of Christmas, spending time with friends and family who love you and accepts you for who you are.

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/sensory-friendly-christmas-book-launch-tickets-73523888931?ref=eios

Books Aren't Vegetables.

Reading is not just vegetables, it's also dessert

Waging a war to get your child to read can never be won; the only true victory happens when you lay down your arms and befriend the fact that for some children, reading is like having to eat their vegetables...they only do it because a parent said it was good for them or a teacher makes them do it before they can move on to something 'fun'.

The more we treat reading like a chore or homework, the more children are going to become disengaged from the true purpose of books; to give the gift of another world, a new friend or a mirror to celebrate what makes us all truly unique.

Here are my top 3 ways that you can make reading less like vegetables, and more like dessert.

Reading is independent

Even though an emerging reader will need help in the beginning, the goal of teaching a child to read is so they can become independent and do it on their own. Have books available for your child at their current reading level, not the reading level they are 'meant' to be. This may mean starting with picture books and building on literacy and language from their, but in their own pace. They should always be able to read the text comfortably and it doesn't always have to be out loud. Don't interrupt or correct unless they look for help. Asking questions after each book is a great way to promote reading comprehension and determining whether to increase the complexity of the stories. The more you encourage your children to take their own initiative the more confidence they will build. They won’t be afraid to give books a go and you will find they will naturally choose reading over other alternatives.


Reading is about choice

School children are seldom given the choice for what, when and where to read. By giving your child a choice outside of school, it will allow them to understand that there is a time and place for texts that serve a purpose in an educational setting, as well as books that are read purely for enjoyment. Take them to your local library and let them choose books that interest them. Don't judge or deny because you think it is above or below their capacity; you would be surprised how much value can be obtained from the most obscure book, all because it engaged a child in some way.


Reading is fun

Going back to the purpose of books, reading is meant to be a way of connecting, not only to the world around us, but to world's that only exist in our imagination. If you child prefers to read graphic novels, comic books or on a tablet, that has to be totally ok. For all its intrinsic educational value, reading is entertainment. Fun online reading games, reading apps and read along YouTube videos all have their place in modern literacy.  How can we expect children to grow up to be life long readers if we place restrictions on the mode that engages them the most, whether it be paper or screen? There is room for both. Books have always come in all shapes and sizes, so reading is reading, no matter the medium. Focus on your child developing a passion for reading and everything else is just icing on the cake.


Do you have any other suggestions for why you agree that books are definitely dessert? I would love to hear from you.
www.michelleworthington.com

Picture Book Masterclass

Discover the principles of writing for children and learn to create dynamic and vibrant picture books in this exclusive masterclass with international award winning author of empowering picture book author, Michelle Worthington. Two time winner of the International Book Award for Children's Hardcover Fiction and finalist in the USA Best Book Awards and Book Excellence Awards, Michelle also received a Gellett Burgess Award for Children's Literature and a Silver Moonbeam Award for her contribution to celebrating diversity in Picture Books. Her goal is to inspire children to believe in themselves and encourage reluctant and special needs readers to fall in love with books. She will share with you her extensive industry knowledge, the basic principles behind writing for children, picture book publishing guidelines and updates on the current market and publishing environment. This masterclass is for anyone who is wanting to publish a picture book but places are limited as Michelle's expertise in this area is sort after all over Australia. Bookings essential as places are limited to ensure each participant gets one-on-one time with Michelle to discuss their picture book idea. Tea and coffee provided...and of course, chocolate biscuits!

Date and Time

Sat. 25 February 2017
12:30 pm – 3:00 pm AEST         

Location

Wellington Point Community Hall
347 Birkdale road
Birkdale, QLD 4159

Book Now https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/picture-book-masterclass-tickets-29603340388

Writing for Children Full Day Seminar

Writing for Children

Share Your Story events are for aspiring authors to learn from industry professionals and established writers to further their dream of being a published author. Join international award winning picture book author, Michelle Worthington and her special guests for a full day workshop on writing for children. Hear from multi-published children's author Aleesah Darlison, internationally published author Rachel Noble, bi-lingual author Melina Mallos, chapter book author Michel Deverall, self-publishing guru Martii Maclean, author/editor/publisher Julieann Wallace and the emerging talent of Yvonne Mes talk about the specifics of writing for children and how it is different from other types of publishing. Free parking. The cost includes tea, coffee, refreshments, a light lunch...and of course, chocolate biscuits!!! Bookings essential.

These are just some of the topics that will be covered. Looking forward to seeing you there.
-How to select a publisher
-The mechanics of submitting your work

-The editorial process
-The design process
-Contracts
-Selling systems and promotion
-Opportunities in e-book and self-publishing

Date and Time

Sat. 18 February 2017
10:00 am – 3:00 pm AEST

Add to Calendar

Location

Redlands IndigiScapes Centre
17 Runnymede Road
Capalaba, QLD 4157

Book now https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/writing-for-children-seminar-tickets-29602710504