Although certain life events are to be expected, they can have an impact on young people’s emotional wellbeing. These events can be difficult for a child to understand and accept. Children’s literature is one way to support the social emotional health of children and provides an avenue for parents and caregivers to address topics that are sometimes difficult to discuss.

Each Parent Pack kit consists of a carrying bag and six books: five books for child/parent sharing and one book with adult information. Along with the books we add an informational sheet that encourages caregivers to read the books first before sharing them with the children. The sheet also includes online resources and other book titles to continue the conversation.

All children experience difficult situations as they grow and develop and they will develop coping skills in many different ways. Children learn that they aren’t alone when they hear a story about a character that is experiencing a similar family issue. Sharing a wide variety of stories with young children can teach about empathy, problem solving, differences, loss and love, as well as a host of other life lessons.