Kathryn Kallady – författare

For the most effective use, this book should be purchased alongside Mia Belongs Here and the activity book, Conceptual PlayWorlds for Belonging. The books can be purchased individually or together as a set, Building Conceptual PlayWorlds for Belonging: Stories and Activities to Build a Sense of Belonging.School is Where We All Belong is a beautifully illustrated story book that helps to develop a sense of belonging in children, particularly at school. It narrates the different ways by which five characters identify their feelings of belonging to school through the five senses (hearing, touch, smell, taste and sight).With its engaging illustrations and narrative, children are encouraged to share their own experiences at the end of each character’s story which allow them to develop a better sense of school belonging, sharing the message that belonging is largely experiential and special to each person.School belonging is an important ingredient for many positive outcomes for student learning and wellbeing. This story provides a unique opportunity for children to practice mindfulness, to pause and fully engage with the place and moment they’re in. By focusing on their senses during the fun, interactive moments, this deceptively simple book promotes a greater sense of belonging in.

Fostering a sense of belonging in early childhood is crucial for the holistic development and wellbeing of young children. This set, comprised of two beautifully illustrated story books and an accompanying practical resource book, is for use with children aged 4-8 to help build strong connections and a sense of belonging.The story books, Mia Belongs Here and School is Where We All Belong, focus on belonging at home and at school, introducing a cast of characters who show how they know they belong through the different senses (smell, taste, touch, hearing and sight). With engaging and captivating illustrations, children are encouraged to reflect and share the sensations and stories that help them feel like they belong.The accompanying resource book expands on these narratives, offering detailed play-based activities and scenarios that allow children to experience and solve real-life problems through imaginative play. It is based on the Conceptual PlayWorld, an evidence-based model of intentional teaching developed by Professor Marilyn Fleer, and activities are inspired by research on relationship building, social and emotional competencies, and positive psychology. Each chapter introduces a new PlayWorld that draws on the characters introduced in the story books and includes detailed guidance on designing, planning and carrying out each narrative scenario.Together, the books provide a comprehensive toolkit for educators to create immersive play environments that teach children about the importance of feeling included and valued. In a world of increasing rates of loneliness, disconnection and social isolation, opportunities to encourage a sense of belonging in children have never been more needed. This set will help teachers, practitioners and parents empower children to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.