AUTHOR TALKS
Provided both in person and online (globally!)
My violin accompanies me to all Author Events where I share my Children’s Books. I beautifully incorporate violin playing within the storytelling experience to express/communicate story messaging.
Children’s Storytime Sessions & Literary Events
Facilitating story time sessions is an enormous privilege, and one I always feel humbled by. I welcome invitations for various events, celebrations, program launches etc.
I have been a special guest author contributing to numerous events and launches, including, within Bookstores, Libraries, Early Learning Centres, Educational Organisations and Hospitals.
Storytime sessions can include craft activities; and where relevant, talks are also presented on topics such as; My Writing Journey and Process; Everyday ways to build children’s language, School Readiness and Development of Emotional Language.
“Our preschool children loved listening to Sonia’s books ‘Kisses in Your Heart’ and ‘Reece Give Me Some Peace!’ The introduction of the violin was engaging and inspiring. Thank you for taking the time to encourage and promote early reading and literacy to young children and for signing the children’s books to take home, a highlight and great keepsake. – Stav Bebonis, Shining Stars Childcare
We had the pleasure of welcoming Sonia to our Storytime sessions to help promote her books and spread the word to parents and young children about play and music and the power of a parents love for their child. Sonia’s use of music to engage with the audience and her talent playing violin encouraged our young audience to join in, express themselves and most of all have fun! We look forward to hosting future programs with Sonia and would be happy to help promote any up and coming publications. – Fiona Kutera, Team Leader – Children’s & Youth Services (George’s River Council)
Childcare & School Visits
My Childcare and School Visits are absolutely loved and cherished by children (and me too!) I take great care to engage with children in a fun and creative way! Both my Children’s Books are aligned with the:
· Early Years Framework
· Australian School Curriculum
For teacher notes/ activity sheets click here and here.
I enjoy collaborating with educators prior to the event to ensure a tailored approach, to complement any specific class/ learning objectives. Sharing insight into my writing process, and the journey to publication is always enjoyed by children, as are the activities I facilitate to spark language creativity and children’s imaginations.
“Sonia is a warm and engaging speaker. The children really enjoyed her interesting and interactive presentation. They benefited from the activities and discussion surrounding the themes in her books. Sonia opened up to them the world of writing, illustrating and publishing a book. We look forward to reading more of her books in the future!”
– Bronwyn Steinwede, Teacher Librarian, SGCS Infants.
“Sonia presented her books Reece Give Me Some Peace! and Kisses in Your Heart to our K-2 students. Her talk was engaging – particularly Reece Give Me Some Peace!, where she played the violin and got the students to play musical instruments. Our students enjoyed both presentations and we have been able to use her books in our PYP curriculum”.
– Christine Rothfield, Junior School Teacher Librarian, Ravenswood School for Girls.
Author Talks for Adolescents, Adults & Literary Conferences/ Events
I have a passion for all things literary, enjoying my ability to combine both my extensive and varied professional/ personal knowledge and experiences; within compelling and engaging talks.
Author engagements you may consider me for include:
· In conversation sessions; both guesting and facilitating Q & A sessions within festivals/ conference formats
· Wellness for mums talks and masterclasses, inspired by my gift book: Flourish for Mums 21 ways to thrive with self-care and acceptance
· Writing workshops and masterclasses; particularly for Picture Book genres