ACPPS017
Practise strategies they can use when they feel uncomfortable, unsafe or need help with a task, problem or situation
Elaborations
• identifying and rehearsing strategies they can use when requiring assistance, such as asking an adult, reading basic signs and solving a problem with friends
• locating and recording phone numbers of local organisations they can contact in case of emergency and rehearsing a phone call to triple zero
• identifying situations that require the help of emergency service
• recognising photos and locations of safe places and a network of people who can help
• describing warning signs (physical, emotional and external) that can help them to know if they are safe or unsafe
healthI Need a Hug
Written & illustrated by Aaron Blabey
Published by Scholastic PressTheme/topic: Friendship,
Suggested learning area: ACPPS003 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation) ACPPS017 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2)This heartwarming and humorous story is about a porcupine seeking affection despite being rejected by other animals due to its prickly quills. Through its simple yet engaging narrative, the book fosters discussions about practising personal and social skills, such as expressing needs, wants, and feelings to interact positively with others (ACPPS004 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education). Additionally, it encourages children to explore strategies they can use when they feel uncomfortable or need help with a task, problem, or situation (ACPPS017 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education). With charming rhymes and expressive illustrations, I Need a Hug is a delightful resource for teaching kindness, self-expression, and emotional resilience.
healthJessica Goes Swimming
Written by Jessica Smith
Illustrated by Hashina Shafad
Published by The Dreamwork CollectiveTheme/topic: Achievement, Disability, Inclusion, Persistence, Sports,
Suggested learning area: ACPPS001 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation) ACPPS003 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation) ACPPS015 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) ACPPS017 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) ACPPS020 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) ACPPS024 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2)This heartfelt story celebrates self-belief and resilience while promoting inclusion. The book follows Jessica, a young girl with a disability, as she navigates the challenges of competing in a race. Through her experiences, readers gain insight into understanding and believing in their own strengths (ACPPS001, ACPPS015 – Foundation to Year 2, Health and Physical Education) and the importance of asking for help when needed (ACPPS003, ACPPS017 – Foundation to Year 2, Health and Physical Education). The story also emphasises how words can affect others’ feelings, whether positive or negative (ACPPS020 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education), reminding us to use language thoughtfully. With its empowering message, Jessica Goes Swimming inspires children to embrace their uniqueness and support one another (ACPPS024 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education), fostering a sense of inclusion and compassion while encouraging persistence and celebrating personal achievement.
healthSlow Down, World
Written & illustrated by Tai Snaith
Published by Thames & Hudson AustTheme/topic: Emotional literacy, Mindfulness, Resilience,
Suggested learning area: ACPPS017 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) ACPPS020 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2)Slow Down, World is a gentle reminder to take time to enjoy the small moments in life. This beautifully illustrated book encourages young readers to explore strategies to stay positive, even during moments of discomfort or anxiety, such as slowing down and observing their surroundings (ACPPS017 – Foundation to Year 2, Health and Physical Education). Through its poetic and reflective tone, the story highlights the importance of mindfulness and finding calm amidst life’s busyness. By helping children practise emotional regulation strategies, such as deep breathing and focusing on nature’s details, the book supports resilience and staying positive in challenging situations (ACPPS020 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education). Its vivid illustrations and meaningful message make it an excellent resource for introducing mindfulness practices to young learners, fostering their emotional well-being and self-awareness.
healthAlone Together
Written & illustrated by Suzanne Bloom
Published by Astra Young ReadersTheme/topic: Emotional literacy, Friendship, Respectful relationship,
Suggested learning area: ACPPS004 (Health and Physical Education – Foundation) ACPPS017 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) ACPPS020 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2) ACPPS022 (Health and Physical Education – Year 1,Year 2)The book is a tender exploration of emotions and relationships, focusing on how individuals recognise and manage their feelings. As Bear, Fox, and Goose navigate moments of togetherness and solitude, the story provides a valuable opportunity to support children in identifying their emotions and practising positive strategies to respond to challenges such as feeling left out or wanting alone, mindfulness time (ACPPS017, ACPPS020 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education). The book also offers children opportunities to practise respecting others’ decisions (ACPPS004 – Foundation Year, Health and Physical Education) and reflecting on how choices can contribute to maintaining respectful, healthy relationships (ACPPS022 – Years 1 and 2, Health and Physical Education). With relatable characters and expressive storytelling, Alone Together serves as an excellent resource for teaching emotional literacy and promoting thoughtful interactions among peers.
ACPPS017
Practise strategies they can use when they feel uncomfortable, unsafe or need help with a task, problem or situation
Elaborations
• identifying and rehearsing strategies they can use when requiring assistance, such as asking an adult, reading basic signs and solving a problem with friends
• locating and recording phone numbers of local organisations they can contact in case of emergency and rehearsing a phone call to triple zero
• identifying situations that require the help of emergency service
• recognising photos and locations of safe places and a network of people who can help
• describing warning signs (physical, emotional and external) that can help them to know if they are safe or unsafe