Donna Ross
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Once Upon a Christmas - Out Now
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"I love the joy that storytelling brings children. Over the past few decades I have enjoyed the early childhood setting locally in Australia as well as internationally in Sweden and Canada.
Children delight in hearing and telling stories.
Faces light up as you dive into the adventure and comedy of the narrative which is storytelling."
Donna, an accomplished early childhood educator with over four decades of global teaching experience, is excited to announce the upcoming release of her latest illustrated children's books. These captivating tales are crafted to engage young readers and their families, drawing on Donna's extensive educational background and personal experiences.
Her enthusiasm for storytelling and commitment to early childhood education are evident in every book. As a new author, Donna seeks to encourage families to discover the joy of reading together, creating cherished memories and nurturing a love for stories.
Having taught in Australia, Sweden, and Canada, Donna brings a wealth of experience to her writing. Her stories are inspired by real-life adventures, fond memories as a child, and her own parenting and teaching experiences, filled with warmth, humour (that’s humor for those in the USA 🙂 ), and valuable lessons.
Donna's charming books are sure to enchant and motivate young readers and their families, bringing the essence of her teaching and personal journey to life on every page.
There are creatures at the Kindy—it’s like visiting the zoo! From birds that sing to lizards that creep, every day brings a new surprise. Creatures at the Kindy celebrates the joy of discovery, the wonder of watching nature up close, and the importance of caring for every living thing. A delightful reminder that even in our own backyard, adventure and learning are waiting to be found!
Jumping Sticks
Out Now
Once Upon a Christmas
Out Now
The Toilet Dance
Out Now
Colouring Book Edition
Out Now
Creatures at the Kindy
Out Now
Manners Matter
Coming 2026
There are creatures at the Kindy… it’s like visiting the zoo!
Step into a world of wonder and discovery with There Are Creatures at the Kindy — a beautifully told, nature-inspired story by Donna Ross, author of Toilet Dance and Once Upon a Christmas.
Every day at Kindy brings new surprises! From sleepy pythons and cheeky crows to magpies that warble from the trees and water dragons that play beneath the bridge — the children learn that their playground is full of life. Even a curious goanna and a family of kangaroos come to say hello!
Through rhythmic storytelling and real-life encounters, Donna Ross captures the joy, curiosity, and respect that children naturally have for the creatures who share their world. Each page celebrates the simple wonders found in outdoor play and the lessons that come from observing nature up close — kindness, care, and appreciation for living things.
Perfect for early childhood classrooms, nature play programs, and families who love exploring outdoors, this heartwarming story encourages children to look, listen, and learn from the world around them.
There Are Creatures at the Kindy is a celebration of connection — between children, educators, animals, and the land that brings them all together.
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Key Themes
• Early learning through nature and observation
• Respect and care for living creatures
• Encouraging curiosity and outdoor exploration
• Building a sense of community and environmental awareness
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Perfect For
• Preschool and Kindergarten classrooms
• Educators promoting sustainability and nature play
• Parents and grandparents who value outdoor learning
• Storytime sessions that spark curiosity about animals and the environment
Join the adventure — because at the Kindy, every day is wild, wonderful, and full of discovery!
"Toilet Dance" is a hilarious and relatable story about kids who just can't tear themselves away from playtime—even when they really need to go to the bathroom! Meet six fun characters who squirm, wiggle, and do everything they can to hold it in. But can they make it in time?
This playful book helps children learn the importance of listening to their bodies while keeping them entertained with giggles and colorful illustrations. Perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and parents, "Toilet Dance" makes potty training fun for everyone!
In "Jumping Sticks," Donna introduces children to one of her favourite childhood games that transforms counting into an exciting outdoor adventure. This delightful story, infused with a playful rhyme, encourages children to learn to count to 10 while jumping sticks outside. The rhythmic verses make learning an active and joyous experience, enhancing both engagement and retention. With vibrant illustrations and an engaging narrative, "Jumping Sticks" promises to be a hit with both kids and parents alike.
Once Upon a Christmas is a nostalgic journey into one of Donna's cherished childhood memories. Set against the backdrop of her family’s festive celebrations, this book captures the magic and wonder of Christmastime. Through this story, Donna aims to bring families together, sharing the warmth and joy that the holiday season brings. Beautifully illustrated by Nadia Kho, Once Upon a Christmas is sure to become a beloved holiday tradition for many.
Colouring Book Edition: Yes, now you can colour and write your very own Christmas memory, making this story even more magical and personal!