good books for tough times
New guide helps parents choose children’s books
A children’s charity has launched a new independent guide recommending story books which can help children to cope with difficult feelings or situations, such as bereavement, bullying or family break-up.
The guide entitled Good Books for Tough Times, produced by charity Partnership for Children, has been sent to 23,000 primary schools and more than 3,500 libraries, and has been made available free of charge online for parents.
Former Children’s Laureate Michael Morpurgo, who wrote a Foreword to the guide, said: “Books can help children to deal with anxiety and give them a sense of perspective. This guide will help parents, teachers and librarians find the right books to help children who are dealing with difficult situations or feelings. Reading is probably the best therapy there is, other than talking to mum or dad.”
Following an earlier version for younger children, the latest guide focuses on the 9-12 age group and recommends 59 books including David Yelland’s The Truth about Leo for its openness about alcoholism in families and Roald Dahl’s Matilda for bullying. Also included are four titles by Jacqueline Wilson and the Harry Potter series for its portrayal of friendship issues and bereavement.
Comedian David Walliams, whose book ‘The Boy in the Dress’ is included in the guide, said: "I hope the book teaches children in an entertaining way that it is ok to be different".
Caroline Egar, Programme Director for Partnership for Children said: “We need to help children learn how to cope with situations that have sadly become the norm in today’s society, such as divorce and separation. Good Books for Tough Times aims to reduce the negative effects on children from events such as this and encourage children to speak out if they are worried or anxious about things like this.
“Parents can find it difficult to discuss some issues with their children – anything from the death of a grandparent or a much-loved pet, to dad’s alcoholism or mum’s depression. Reading a story about someone else who has gone through a similar experience can be very helpful, and can encourage children to talk about their worries and find ways to cope.”
The guide was compiled by the Partnership for Children charity which promotes emotional and mental well being of children throughout the world. The books have been independently chosen by Partnership for Children in coordination with the BookTrust charity.
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