Whispering Corner by Martin Phillips, Tim Arnold and Jenny Lloyd. A book and tape set for developing speaking and listening skills with reception and key stage 1 pupils, which has been trialled in 34 Devon schools. The book has both teacher-led and independent activities; the audio-tape contains songs and some sound-effects material. Pounds 11.50. Devon Learning Resources, 21 Old Mill Lane, Torquay TQ2 6AU. Tel: 01803 605531.

Supporting Language and Literacy: A handbook for those who assist in early years settings by Suzi Clipson-Boyles describes the main features of language learning and early literacy and includes activities, some with photocopiable sheets.

Pounds 12.99. David Fulton Publishers, 2 Barbon Close, Great Ormond Street, London WC1N 3JX. Tel: 0171 405 5606.

Helping Children Read by Margaret Cooper and Resources for Early Writing by Jane Richards aim to give practical advice on teaching literacy skills. Helping Children Read shows the problems that may be encountered by children and how parents as well as teachers can overcome them. Resources for Early Writing includes photocopiable sheets to assist writing at key stage 1. Pounds 10 (Pounds 8.75 members) and Pounds 11 (Pounds 9.75 members) respectively. United Kingdom Reading Association, Unit 2, Station Road, Shepreth, Nr. Royston, Herts SG8 6PZ. Tel: 01763 261328.