Looking for gifts that encourage reading while also having fun? At Zebra Finch, we’ve handpicked our favourite board books and finger puppets that are perfect for children under 5, and even for babies to encourage reading and listening.
Reading from a young age helps build language skills, curiosity, and a lifelong love of stories, and Tara Treasures makes it easy to get kids engaged and keep them listening - whether they’re turning the pages themselves or being read to by a parent.
A Fail-Safe Gift Idea We Always Recommend
- Board Book – Sturdy, colourful, and perfect for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Even very young children can explore pictures, textures, and rhythm, helping them enjoy stories from the very first read. (Hardcover books are always best in our opinion!)
- Matching Finger Puppets – Bring characters to life! Children can act out stories, developing fine motor skills, imagination, and early storytelling abilities. (Plus a book and finger puppet look so cute together)
The Gruffalo Collection – Storytime Comes Alive
The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson is a classic story beloved by kids of all ages. Tara Treasures brings it to life with Gruffalo finger puppets, creating interactive storytime moments. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a quiet afternoon, or a playdate, the Gruffalo collection is perfect for encouraging reading from an early age.
Five Little Ducks – Counting, Singing & Play
Another favourite at Zebra Finch is the Five Little Ducks finger puppet set paired with the “Ducks Away” board book by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek. This set is a fun and interactive way for children to learn counting, enjoy singing, and engage with storytime.
The little duck puppets make it easy for children to act out the story as they read, while the colourful board book keeps even the youngest readers entertained. It’s perfect for babies and toddlers, encouraging early literacy, hand-eye coordination, and imaginative play — all while having a quacking good time!
Shop Tara Treasures in Newcastle
At Zebra Finch, we make it simple to find the perfect gift for little readers of any age:
- In-store: Visit our store at Marketown Shopping Centre or Westfield Kotara to see and feel the Gruffalo toys, finger puppets, and board books.
- Online: Browse and order from anywhere in Australia with fast shipping or local pickup in Newcastle.
Why Zebra Finch?
Every item in our store is handpicked for quality and play value. Shopping with us is personal, whether you’re visiting Marketown Newcastle, Kotara or online. Our Tara Treasures selection is perfect for children under 5 and beyond, helping little ones discover the magic of stories early.


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