It’s time to read and reminisce about childhood pastimes from the past – and of course, some of these are still current today, or making a comeback as a ‘retro’ activity. These books make a great talking point during visits. They are especially useful for loved ones living with dementia, who may not be able to chat about what they did this week, but can absolutely remember playground games from their childhood.
The text is from a chatty, magazine-style perspective, looking back how things were ‘back in the day’.
However, there are just three large print paragraphs per illustrated page, and no need to remember what was on the page before.
Obviously, memories of the past will differ – and mine are more UK and Australian, though I’ve tried to acknowledge the US/Canadian experience.
What I’ve noticed is that everyone who reads these books either says things like, “Oh, yes, I remember skipping!” or “Well, I never liked jumping rope – I wanted to climb trees!” – and then they start reminiscing!
All the reading books are a slim, light 40 pages, with extra large bold print and vibrant photographs, 8 x 10 inches.
There is no reference to dementia or other illness inside the book, or on the cover. The back cover says simply: “Enjoy these tales of the good old days and share your own stories! Keep your mind active as you read aloud or read along.”
You can find Our Pastimes in Past Times on Amazon by clicking on this universal link: https://mybook.to/PastimesPast – or why not try your local library? (Tell them it’s ISBN number 9781922191694.)