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Books

Top 5 books for keeping kids active

The authors of Commando Dad: Forest School Adventures round up their book picks for keeping youngsters active this summer

Schools will soon close for the holidays in England and Wales, while summer has already begun for children in Scotland.

Covid-19 restrictions are lifting but it’s likely there could still be some differences in the lives of youngsters this year.

That’s why Neil and Tara Sinclair, authors of Commando Dad: Forest School Adventures, put together the best books to help your kids keep active for the next month and a half.

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The Stick Book by Fiona Danks and Jo Schofield

From building a den to making a magic wand, the possibilities of what kids can do with sticks are endless. This wonderful book has 70 activities for your troopers’ “sticky fingers”.

Where’s Wally? by Martin Handford

So much more than a spotting book, it is packed with games, creative activities and perplexing puzzles. You may even forget to find Wally.

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty

Ada Twist’s Big Project Book for Stellar Scientists by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts

The perfect book for kids who ask why? how? what? when? and then why? again. Ada will inspire your kids to get curious about science and – who knows – maybe help unleash their inner Einstein.

101 Things For Kids to do Outside by Dawn Isaac

Full of ideas to entertain the kids in the great outdoors – whatever the weather or time of year. You don’t need a massive garden – just a green space (and lots of energy).

Books 1470
Commando Dad: Forest School Adventures by Neil and Tara Sinclair is out now (Summersdale, £10.99) Image: Waterstone

Miniature Enchanted Forest by Johanna Basford

Colouring in is not only fun, but is an amazing tool to help reduce anxiety, aid concentration, improve fine motor skills and more – in kids and adults alike. Your kids will love making these beautiful pictures their own.

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