UNICEF's Children First! Story Book

UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch

Wednesday, March 02, 2016

     Hello mommies! I would like to interest you in this topic especially if you already have kids who are in pre-school. I'm sure that you're all excited to hear your child read. Their first words, phrases, and sentences mean a lot as these are our parameters in gauging their learning development. We all know that each development is unique, some may learn how to speak, read, and write in different ages but no need to worry as long as your child has the interest and copes to what you and their teacher teaches whether at home or school.

     Last February 19, UNICEF launched the Children First! Storybooks – a collection of six books that promote reading and inspire children’s imagination. These books were written in Filipino and English text for children ages three and above. The books talk about different topics such as overcoming shyness, cultivating friendships, and reaching for one’s dreams. The stories are presented in colourful illustrations to fire up children’s sense of curiosity and wonder. I went to theevent with Kenzo because he loves reading! I'm proud that at his age, he can read words that a grade 1 or 2 can also read.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
Reading is important in child development:

  • Child development experts cite the numerous benefits of a healthy imagination in growing children. By thinking creatively, putting oneself in someone else’s shoes and learning how to express themselves, children grow up to become better problem solvers, have higher self-esteem and have a better understanding of the feelings of others. 
  • These are all important in the early years when children begin learning about social, emotional, language and thinking skills which lay the foundation for the child’s future health, happiness, and development.

UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
UNICEF Philippines Country Representative Lotta Sylwander, UNICEF Celebrity Advocate for Children Anne Curtis, and author Augie Rivera
     According to Ms. Lotta Sylwander, UNICEF Philippines Representative. “Children learn language quickly and easily through hearing and singing songs, having stories told or read to them, repeating rhymes and playing games. Having a supportive environment in these early years will help children get ready for school and life-long learning,”
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
     There are six books in Children First! Story Book Collection written and illustrated by some of the most notable Filipino writers and artists. The collection includes the storybook Anita, The Duckling Diva written by UNICEF Celebrity Advocate for Children Anne Curtis.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
Anita, The Duckling Diva written by UNICEF Celebrity Advocate for Children Anne Curtis
     “I’m very happy to have written my first children’s book, which I hope can help children particularly with their self-confidence and self-esteem,” Curtis said. “I believe that children should be given all the emotional and moral support they need as they grow so they can express themselves with confidence and explore their full talent.”
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
UNICEF Philippines Country Representative Lotta Sylwander and UNICEF Celebrity Advocate for Children Anne Curtis 
Here are the six storybooks in the collection:

1. Anita, The Duckling Diva tells the story of how one little duckling overcomes her shyness with the help of her family and friends.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
Anita, The Duckling Diva
2. Ang Sabi ni Nanay, Ang Sabi ni Tatay is a wonderful story about transcending gender stereotypes and how children should be allowed to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
Ang Sabi ni Nanay, Ang Sabi ni Tatay
3. Ang Dalawang Haring Siga story by one of my college professors- Rene O. Villanueva teaches how to set aside differences and promote peace instead of war.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
Ang Dalawang Haring Siga
4. Ang Bata sa Basket teaches parents that proper parenting requires more than just good intentions. It's a responsibility.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
Ang Bata sa Basket
5. Nina Wonders, Nina Asks gives us a thought-provoking view of everyday reality as seen through the eyes of a child.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
Nina Wonders, Nina Asks
6. Yaya Niya, Nanay Ko is a wistful, introspective story about young girl who longs for the love of her mother. As a nanny, her mother takes care of Anne May, leaving her daughter, the story's protagonist, in the care of her grandmother. Despite learning to take care of herself, the daughter continues to yearn for her mother's love.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
Yaya Niya, Nanay Ko
     Apart from teaching important lessons to children, the books also contain a child-friendly version of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), as well as internet safety reminders for young people. Proceeds from the book will benefit UNICEF’s programs for children in the Philippines and around the world.
UNICEF's Children First! Story Book Launch
     Thank you so much UNICEF Philippines for having us! Kenzo enjoyed reading the books and he likes to read all the books over and over again.

     For more details on UNICEF’s work and programs, visit www.unicef.ph 

Good Times!~

INSTAGRAM @DEARKITTYKITTIEKATH

© Dear Kitty Kittie Kath- Top Lifestyle, Beauty, Mommy, Health and Fitness Blogger Philippines.