Breathing
My healthy body Series
What’s inside...
Introducing children to their bodies, how they work and how to maintain good health, this series is for eight to twelve year olds. Photographs with artwork superimposed show readers how the inside of the body looks and works. The series also emphasizes issues of food health and hygiene, including drugs and eating disorders. A new series which introduces the body to children. Photographs with artwork superimposed show readers how the inside of the body looks and works. Special features on maintaining good health through a balanced diet and exercise, as well as information on issues relevant to each title. Digestion outlines the way in which the body transforms food into useful products to keep us healthy and active. The function of different body parts is discussed, including the teeth, liver, pancreas, gall bladder and kidneys. Digestive problems such as indigestion, diarrhoea, constipation and malnutrition are also covered. Lungs outlines the main features of the respiratory system and tips on how to keep the lungs healthy, including the importance of regular exercise and the dangers of smoking. Lung diseases are also covered, such as asthma, lung cancer and bronchitis.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think about how the characters learned to control their breathing?
Can you imagine how breathing differently might change the way you feel?
Why do you think the author chose breathing as the main theme for the story?
What did you learn about your own breathing from this book?
How might you use these breathing techniques next time you feel upset or excited?
Tip: Role play these questions
Set a calm, focused tone by taking a few deep breaths together before and after reading.
Encourage your child to describe how different breathing techniques in the book made them feel.
Link examples from the book to real-life situations, asking your child how they might use breathing to help themselves.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and encourage them to ask their own questions about the story.
Consider practicing some breathing exercises from the book together to help solidify the concepts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Mindfulness
Explanation: The book 'Breathing' by Jen Green introduces the concept of mindfulness through engaging narratives and illustrations. It guides children on how to be aware of their breath and use it to manage emotions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using breathing techniques to calm themselves in stressful situations, such as before a test at school or during a disagreement with friends.
Example Lesson: Understanding Emotions
Explanation: Through its storyline, 'Breathing' helps children recognize and name different emotions like happiness, sadness, and anger, showing that all feelings are valid.
Real-World Application: This lesson fosters emotional intelligence in children, helping them express their emotions more clearly and empathize with others.
Example Lesson: Promoting Concentration
Explanation: Jen Green’s book advocates the use of focused breathing exercises that can enhance concentration and attention in young readers.
Real-World Application: Children can use these breathing exercises to improve their focus during schoolwork, reading, or any tasks that require sustained attention.
Example Lesson: Building Routine
Explanation: Throughout 'Breathing', the importance of regular practice is highlighted, teaching kids that consistency is key to mastering any new skill.
Real-World Application: By establishing a routine breathing practice, children can develop discipline and a sense of responsibility that can be beneficial in all areas of their life.