Kelly-Ann (Monash University, Australia) Allen & Marilyn (Monash University, Australia) Fleer 
Conceptual PlayWorlds for Wellbeing [PDF ebook] 
A Resource Book for the Lonely Little Cactus

For effective use, this book should be purchased alongside the story book, The Lonely Little Cactus: A Story About Friendship, Coping, and Belonging. Both books can be purchased together as a set, Building Conceptual Play Worlds for Wellbeing: The Lonely Little Cactus Story Book and Accompanying Resource Book.

This vital resource uses the evidence-driven Conceptual Play Worlds model of intentional teaching developed by Professor Marilyn Fleer to provide supporting classroom or home-based activities to help children aged between four and eight solve challenges and learn wellbeing concepts through play.

Intended for use with the accompanying picture story book, The Lonely Little Cactus, a tale about a cactus that feels lonely living in the desert, this guide offers imagery-rich scenarios, including 20 unique activities, so children have an opportunity to experientially grasp wellbeing concepts that can be otherwise difficult to explain. This resource guides educators and teachers through a range of wellbeing activities, including:

• Identifying feelings


• Coping (social support, problem solving, and self-regulation)


• Friendships (relationship building, working together, time with friends, social skills)


• Positive emotions (happiness, joy, doing something you love, enjoyment, fun)


• Relaxation strategies


• Belonging and inclusion (working together, collaboration, joining in play, including others)

Offering a unique opportunity for children to learn about psychological strategies while being engaged in a beautiful narrative and visually captivating illustrations, this is the ideal resource for educators or teachers, support staff, practitioners, and families looking to help children understand and manage their feelings. While the context is centre-based, the activities can be done almost anywhere, such as in family homes, the Botanical Gardens, when on holidays, or when visiting a park.