How do you help your child, or grandchild, through a tough time?
Tough times for kids can be typical, but tough, stuff like getting a new brother or sister, fighting with a brother or sister, or a fear of lightning. Or it can be traumatic like death, divorce, or serious illness.
What do all of these topics have in common? A kids' book.
A friendly librarian at any of the branches of the Licking County Library--the new name of the Newark Public Library--can help you find what you need.
For most topics, you can find a book in which the character matches your child's age, sex and race. Reading a story about another child going through the same thing can be comforting and help a child process difficult emotions. Reading it on the lap of a warm and loving mom, dad, or grandparent, can open up a conversation that can help kids to problem-solve, heal and grow.
Library card out of commission due to fines or lost books? Can't afford to reinstate it right now? Bummer. (Been there.)
The library will still welcome you and your child. Go to the library and read books there. You can still take your child to story hours and other activities.
If you find a special book that hits the mark, maybe you can buy it.
But consider making even small payments--a dollar or two here can make a difference over time.
--Judith Allee
Parent Support Coordinator
No comments:
Post a Comment