Renee Sim
Renee held various teaching and leadership positions in EtonHouse, including Principal at EtonHouse Pre-School and Senior Curriculum Manager at EtonHouse International Education Group. With a strong belief in making a difference to the lives of children, Renee switched mid-way from a course in Business Management in 2007 and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Studies instead. Renee’s positive image of child guides her philosophies in creating vibrant learning environments for children focused on relationships and inquiry. She also believes that relationships with children are built through learning experiences based on their interests.
With a plethora of children's books available in the bookstores, it can get confusing and challenging to choose the best books for your child. Here are 3 recommended books to read with your child (3 - 6 years), and simple ideas on activities to extend the reading experience!
Book 1: Not a Box
Author: Antoinette Portis
“Not a box” is a book about imagination and endless possibilities. This charming book shares how a rabbit plays with a cardboard box. The rabbit goes around saying “It’s not a box!” to any box it sees. Every child can relate to playing in a box and using their imagination to create space ships, cars, houses, etc.
Suggested activity:
Take on an art and craft challenge with your child. Find a cardboard box and turn it into an object which your child can include in his or her playroom.
Book 2: Before We Eat: From Farm to Table
Author: Pat Brisson
Children now live in a modern world where they are far away from open lands. Many children are unaware of the invisible army of people whose efforts made those cartons of milk and jars of honey appear in the supermarket shopping carts. Pat Brisson’s book celebrates the efforts of all the people who are involved in growing, harvesting, selling, and preparing our food. A great book to encourage children to show appreciation and gratitude to those who contribute to our meals.
Suggested activity:
Take your child out to local farm to learn more about food production.
- Vegetable farm - Oh Chin Huat Hydroponic Farms (Oh’ Farms)
- Tropical fruit farm – D’Kranji Farm Resort
Book 3: You Are a Lion! And Other Fun Yoga Poses
Author: Taeeun Yoo
This book invites children to enjoy yoga by assuming playful animal poses. It sparks their imagination and creativity by encouraging them to pretend to be the animal – to roar like a lion, hiss like a snake, to flutter like a butterfly and more. Yoga is an excellent vehicle to introduce body awareness to children of any age. It is great for children because it promotes flexibility and focus, and it’s relaxing good fun! The charming pictures of children, animals and the lyrical text make this gentle introduction to both yoga and the connection between people, animals and nature.
Suggested activity:
With the book as a guide, bring out a yoga mat and practice yoga with your child. Have some good fun stretching!