Old Bear Stories | Reception Booklist

Old Bear
(Old Bear and Friends)

Today, let’s dive into the charming world of "Old Bear and Friends" by Jane Hissey. This delightful series is not just a beloved classic but also a fantastic teaching tool that can spark creativity and imagination in your young learners!

Storytime with Heart

"Old Bear" and his cuddly pals present stories rich in friendship, adventure, and problem-solving. What’s not to love? Each character is wonderfully relatable, offering opportunities to discuss emotions, teamwork, and empathy. Invite your students to bring their own stuffed animals to class for a cosy, interactive read-aloud session. You’ll be amazed at how this simple act can create a warm, inclusive atmosphere where every child feels connected.

Creative Activities Galore

Get those little hands busy with craft projects inspired by Old Bear and his friends. How about making Old Bear masks or creating a diorama of their cosy attic world? These hands-on activities not only reinforce the story but also enhance fine motor skills and creativity. You can even incorporate some basic sewing projects if you’re feeling adventurous! Imagine the pride on their faces when they make their own little bear or bunny.

Cross-Curricular Connections

Old Bear’s adventures can be seamlessly integrated into various subjects. Use the stories as a springboard for a math lesson by counting the friends or measuring their heights. Dive into science by exploring the different materials the toys are made from or discussing how things change over time, just like Old Bear. And of course, don’t forget the rich vocabulary and storytelling techniques you can explore in your literacy lessons.

So, dear educators, grab your Old Bear books, gather your young learners, and embark on a delightful journey filled with learning, laughter, and a whole lot of love. Happy teaching!

Author: Jane Hissey

Jane is a British author and illustrator of children's books. She is best known for her series of children's books Old Bear and Friends, which became the basis for a BAFTA award-winning television series Old Bear Stories, episodes of which were released on VHS by Carlton Video.

Book Details:

Publisher: Walker
Format: Hardback
Print length: 32 pages
Dimensions: 22.23 x 1.27 x 26.67 cm
Reading age: 3 - 7 years old
Publication date: 1 Sept. 2013
ISBN: 1912904845

Read alongside these topics:

Reception

Why is Old Bear (Old Bear and Friends) great to read to reception aged children?

Old Bear, written and illustrated by Jane Hissey, is an excellent choice for reading to reception-aged children for several reasons:

Engaging Storyline

The narrative of Old Bear centers around themes of friendship, perseverance, and the importance of helping others. The story follows a group of toys who embark on a mission to rescue their beloved friend, Old Bear, from the attic. This adventure is filled with imaginative problem-solving as the toys devise various plans to reach him, making it relatable and engaging for young readers.

Beautiful Illustrations

The book features photo-realistic artwork that captivates children's attention. Each page includes full-page illustrations alongside smaller images, creating an immersive reading experience. The detailed visuals not only enhance the storytelling but also help children connect with the characters and their emotions.

Developmental Benefits

Reading Old Bear to children supports their imagination and encourages language development. Listening to stories helps improve concentration and fosters a love for reading. The gentle pace of the story allows children to absorb the narrative fully, making it suitable for bedtime or quiet storytime sessions.

Nostalgic Appeal

For parents reading to their children, Old Bear evokes nostalgia as it reflects cherished childhood toys and experiences. This connection can create a shared bonding moment between parent and child, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Relatable Characters

The characters in Old Bear are designed to be relatable for young children. Each toy has distinct traits that children can identify with, fostering empathy and understanding as they follow the toys' adventures.

In summary, Old Bear is a heartwarming tale that combines engaging storytelling, beautiful illustrations, and developmental benefits, making it an ideal book for reading to reception-aged children.