Hope

Inspiration

I was inspired to write this book because children are in desperate need of tools to help them process their feelings related to the COVID-19 pandemic. They are also in need of hope. I have three children of my own, and I work as a professional counselor/therapist. I deeply empathize with the need to support children in this unprecedented time. Picture books offer a unique opportunity for children to process and understand concepts that are otherwise difficult to grasp. Additionally, children are more engaged in retaining content when it is presented in a creative way. This is an inspiring story of hope for kids that are feeling upset and confused about Covid-19 and all the changes that have come with it. The book provides an opportunity for kids to observe a character feeling some of the same things they might be feeling, e.g. lonely, sad, confused, frustrated, and helpless. And yet, it reminds them they are not alone, that doctors are working hard to get rid of the virus, and that there are empowering actions they can take not only to help fight the virus via hand-washing and sheltering-in-place, but also through offering love and hope to friends and loved ones. My hope is that this book will help set the table for important ongoing conversations between parents and kids.

How I Built It

I spent some time reflecting on what my own kids as well as those I work with in therapy need most right now. My conclusion was that they need to know that they are not alone and that despite difficult circumstances, there is always hope. I think rhyming, lyrical picture books are often most memorable for kids. Books with animals pictured also appeal to a broad range of kids and there is a sweetness and vulnerability to woodland creatures that kids can identify with. So, I set out to create a rhyming picture book that was informative but in a creative way that inspired connection and hope. I reached out to a friend who is also a mental health therapist and artist. She put together beautiful illustrations to help me tell this story.

Accomplishments I'm Proud Of

I'm proud to have created something that made my kids smile and has generated good conversations within our family about how this pandemic is affecting them and other kids around the world. I hope it will offer other parents and kids the same invitation to process feelings and connect, while also offering some educational elements.

What I learned

That grown-ups are no different than children in their need for connection and hope. And that picture books are an avenue for all of us to process feelings and be reminded of ways we can both stay safe and help other stay safe and connected.

Built With

• procreate