Activity booklet for a preschool child

• The book is intended for a child of approximately three to five years.
• The entry may not be older than two years.
• The recommended size is approximately 250 x 250 mm and it may not be smaller than A5, approximately 148 x 210 mm.
• The pages must be durable, firm, washable and easy to turn.
• Felt is a popular choice for loose elements, but other suitable materials may be used.
• The book must contain interactive parts.
• At least five pages are required, including the decorated front cover.

Choose a simple theme that runs through the whole book, such as farm animals, colours, shapes, garden life or a short story. Give each page a separate purpose: match shapes, count objects, thread a lace, open a zip, arrange colours or complete a simple picture.

• Use large components that are easy to handle.
• Double loose elements when this provides greater firmness.
• Finish the edges by hand or machine to limit fraying.
• Large buttons must be sewn on very securely.
• Buttons, press studs, zips, hook-and-loop tape, buckles and shoelaces may be used as activities.
• No wire, sharp points or other dangerous objects are allowed.
• Remove glue threads and visible glue marks.
• Keep the layout simple; too many small details make the activity confusing.

Blanket stitch or a similar edge finish can strengthen the pages. Choose a binding method that allows the pages to open easily and withstand frequent use. Test every fastening and moving part repeatedly. Pay continuous attention to colour harmony, balance, proportion and a neat visual rhythm.

Appearance counts 60% and workmanship 40%. The book must be attractive, age-appropriate, safe and functional. Neat stitching, strong attachments, clear learning value, good use of colour and easily handled pages are important.

Place the book in a transparent plastic bag and label it HANDCRAFT, followed by the entrant’s name, branch, region and province. Attach the judging card to the book with crochet thread. Do not use a safety pin.

• For ages three to five
• Approximately 250 x 250 mm and not smaller than A5
• At least five pages, including the front cover
• Firm, washable and easy-to-turn pages
• Interactive, safe elements
• No sharp or loose dangerous parts
• Correctly packed and labelled