News & Events
Grade 3 Literacy class.
It's great to get feedback from teachers, showing how they have used 'Mrs Echidna's Dilemma' in literacy classes, and used it to extend the children's interests in other areas. Many schools were visited during 'Bookweek' - and now some have sent photos of the children's work after the visit.
Educational Workshops for 3-8 yr olds
With 'Book Week' in August, Betty conducted workshops in a variety of educational facilities. Betty has programs adapted to needs of children from Kindergarten to Grade 4 level, plus a program for ESL students.
University of the Sunshine Coast
Betty Johnston visited the University of the Sunshine Coast (Qld) on 3rd April to speak to students about her book 'Mrs Echidna's Dilemma'. Students from different subjects attended - those studying 'teaching literacy' and also 'early childhood studies'.
Released March 2012
Due to popular demand, two more patterns have been released - "Echidna Meets Blue-Tongue" in both stump-work and black-work.
3rd April 2012
Once again, Betty has been invited to speak to pre-service teachers at a lecture on teaching literacy at the University of the Sunshine Coast. 'Mrs Echidna's Dilemma', with its multi-modal approach, is valuable not only in teaching literacy, but also links into other areas of the curriculum.
A gift for all ages!
People constantly ask 'What age group enjoys the book?' The answer is ... all ages! People have reported giving it to adults, to school children, and to toddlers - and all of them have loved it! Have a look at these pictures....
Australian Wildlife Magazine Jan 2012
Mrs Echidna's Dilemma has been reviewed in many publications - and now it has been featured in the respected 'Australian Wildlife' magazine. It's great to see its value being recognised in the wildlife / environmental world.
July 28-29; August 4-5 2012
Betty will be the guest speaker at the 'Teapot Ministries' annual retreat near Sydney. The theme of the retreat is 'Sew you can Dream'... an ecumenical ministry combining a love for patchwork and quilting with a ministry of encouraging women in their interests and gifts.
Betty has presented literacy workshops to Under-Graduate and Graduate students in Early and Primary Years at the University of the Sunshine Coast... She is a very talented and passionate educator, and I recommend her highly to school principals, parent's groups, and anyone interested in furthering the power of language, literacy and literature in classrooms.
Carol Smith
Lecturer, USC
Mrs Echidna's Dilemma is one of the most glorious books I have ever come across; unique and inventive.
Elaine Harris
Radio Presenter & Author, Tasmania
I want to thank you for coming in and sharing your work with the students at USC. It was exciting, engaging, and a great real life example of literacy in action...and you are funny!
Lisa
education undergraduate
We enjoyed having you at our school as our visiting author (and much more - a creative, amazing 'illustrator' too)
Head of the Library Service
at a Brisbane Christian School
My daughter took Mrs Echidna's Dilemma to her pre school today along with the wonderful puppets made by her grandma [a Christmas present]. Her teacher absolutely loved it and all activities for the day (and tomorrow) were based on Australian wildlife because of it. S was so proud to stand in front of the class and hold all the puppets. You've touched another 25 kids with your beautiful story and artwork. Thank you,
Lauren
Kindy Mum