We all know the value of books. As parents we’re very good at reading stories to our children… from books that we own, share or borrow from a library. Research tells us that enjoying books together should be part of every parent and child’s day, embedded into our routine in just the same way as brushing teeth.

We also know that little “fiddly” activities are good for young fingers. Folding, drawing, pointing and turning pages are all understated actions that quietly strengthen small hand muscles, develop fine motor skills and support hand-eye coordination.

Dah dah… introducing the home-made ‘mini book”. These little cuties are easy to make together and fun to fill.

While there are lots of ways to create hand-made books I really like version described below. With this method you can quickly transform one humble sheet of A4 paper into an 8-page mini book with just a few simple folds and one snip of the scissors - you don’t need a stapler, glue or tape. You can even use recycled paper (as long as one side is blank to draw or write on).

It’s easy peasy… here’s how it’s done:

Fold back the outside corner on one side…

… then fold in half width ways. Cut through the folded edge to the crease.

Fold in half lengthwise, carefully opening up the centre cut section as shown.

Re-crease folds till page forms a cross.

Press all pages to one side, and voila - a book!

Make a batch of mini books together, using the correct words to describe the parts of a book as you go: front and back covers, spine, pages, beginning, end. Use these mini book to capture your youngster’s special ideas, words or drawings. Let the kids fill them with drawings, pasting, photos or writing, whatever takes their fancy.

pop a few in your pocket or bag when heading out
get your child to draw the items from your shopping list, then take a book to the supermarket
offer them with a pencil while you stop for a cuppa
fill with a favourite rhyme
take a batch to fill on a long car trip
circulate one between a group or family and invite everyone to contribute a page
post a mini book of drawings instead of a birthday card
use them to document the story of your day
store them in a shoebox

There are so many ways to use your mini books, and you’re bound to think of many more. Why not whip up a batch together, and get your own mini library started.