Picture books are a great way to support children through difficult times.
Children love being read to and enjoy cuddling up with mum, dad or a special adult to read their favourite stories.
If your child is struggling with something a picture book is a gentle way to open up the conversation about this topic and gives them a way to think and process their thoughts and feelings.
Here are a range of books I use in my therapy rooms:
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst- helps with separation anxiety
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22407.The_Invisible_String?ac=1&from_search=true
The Rainbow Fish byMarcus Pfister- helps understand friendship and sharing
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/766043.Rainbow_Fish_to_the_Rescue_?ac=1&from_search=true
The Fearsome, Frightening, Ferocious Box by Frances Watts & David Legge- supports feelings such as fear, being brave, things are not often as bad as we think.
Tidy by Emily Grvett- supports Obsessive, compulsive behaviours and letting go of anxieties
A Rat in a Stripy Sock by Frances Watts & David Francis- supports relisience
Little Elephants by Graeme Base- supports resilience
Top Dog by Rod Clement- helps understand parent pressures and stress
Nighty Night by Margaret Wild & Kerry Argent- supports children who are unique that is ok not to be perfect all the time, to cherish the fun of being a child.
Boris Saves the Show by Carrie Weston & Tim Warnes- supports being different and fostering your own talent.
The Pocket Dogs by Margaret Wild - supporting belonging and family.
The Very Cranky Bear by Nick Bland - supporting anger and friendship.
I hope these ideas help you support you children, enjoy cuddling up and reading these amazing books!
There are also great sites to explore if you would like to research further, one is: http://www.goodreads.com/list/show/4131.Best_Picture_Books_For_Therapy
If you feel your child may need further support please call me or book in an appointment.