Pictured: Storyteller Bianca Hunt, Storybox Hub
To celebrate our 20th anniversary, we've partnered with StoryBox Hub and ARACY to create a curated storybook playlist designed to support children's wellbeing while enjoying the magic of stories.
Families can access the 12-story playlist for free through the StoryBox Library online platform to view videos of the books being read aloud. The playlist brings together stories that explore the many elements that shape children's wellbeing, including relationships, belonging, learning, safety, health and participation.
Hear more about the benefits of this partnership from Professor Sharon Goldfeld, paediatrician and Director of the Centre for Community Child Health, and Derek McCormack, Director of Raising Children Network.
The StoryBox videos show stories being read aloud by authors, actors and presenters – there is even one read by former Yellow Wiggle Emma Watkins. Suggested activities are provided at the end of each story.
The playlist's stories are accompanied by printable resources that include trusted Raising Children Network tips to help parents, carers and educators extend the positive impact of stories through conversations, play and everyday moments.
The stories were chosen to align with 6 wellbeing domains that make up The Nest Wellbeing Framework developed by ARACY.
Raising Children Network Director Derek McCormack says that The Nest Wellbeing Framework has 6 key areas that are all connected, and all essential for a full and happy life.
'The stories chosen in the Wellbeing Playlist each connect to one of these areas, for example promoting good physical and mental health, and supporting a strong sense of identity and culture,' Derek says.
'The resources that accompany each story will help families extend its message through easy interactions or activities that can make a big difference to a child's whole self – their mental health, social-emotional learning and more.