Pat ElliottWestminster SLS Librarian’s view: I work with London school children as both a librarian and heritage educator, and regularly meet pupils with special needs as well as those from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. It never ceases to amaze me how very young children unquestionably accept and accommodate the differences they perceive in those around them; but the growing child is influenced by the mindsets of those they encounter. Picture books, like Elmer, which explore positive attitudes and friendship, can become a valuable tool for encouraging discussion with young children about the importance of embracing and celebrating our …
Promoting Peace and Resilience in Times of Conflict
Coverage about Ukraine is everywhere for children to hear and pick up; TV and news programmes, parents and carers discussing at the school gate. Abby Buntonsuggests the best ways to use books to develop your children’s resilience.
International Women’s Day: Break the Bias
Celebrating International Women’s Day (8 March 2022) at school is a great way to help children learn more about this celebration – especially its modern invocation.
10 Books to Borrow for Children’s Mental Health Week: 7-13 February 2022
Books remain a key resource for teachers looking for support with mental health as a topic in lessons and also for ways to encourage emotional literacy and resilience in the children they teach.
Let’s Talk About Sex and Relationships in Secondary School Libraries
Abby Bunton from Hampshire SLS assesses how school libraries can do more to be inclusive and open to the presence of sex and relationships in library stock.
Food for Thought
Ideas for anyone trying to eat more vegan meals this Veganuary from Nina Simon