Children’s literature sparks a conversation on
dementia
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By Contributor on July 29, 2015 in Community Care
Review
Witnessing the decline of a
grandparent or elderly relative with dementia can be a confusing and
confronting time for young children.
In response, a growing
number of children’s authors and illustrators, often inspired by personal
experience, are turning to the subject in their books for young readers.
To mark World Dementia
Awareness Month in September, a group of Australian children’s authors are
collaborating to showcase their stories and raise awareness of dementia and its
impact on families.
Children’s literature can
be a valuable starting point to discuss ageing and the transition to care.
All four books explore
intergenerational relationships and offer practical strategies for connecting
with ageing grandparents even in difficult and changing circumstances.
Lucas &
Jack by Ellie Royce and Andrew McLean. Published by Working Title Press.
Lucas &
Jack is a great book for introducing young children to
the idea that old people can be fun and that deep down we have more in common
than we think. More importantly Lucas & Jack encourages
children to ask questions, be curious, imaginative and empathetic.
Celia and
Nonna by Victoria Lane and Kayleen West. Published by Ford Street.
Celia and
Nonna is a significant and heart-warming picture book
about the special bond between children and grandparents – and what happens
when life changes. In this story, young Celia finds a delightful and positive
way to navigate this confusing time.
When I see
Grandma by Debra Tidball and Leigh Hedstrom. Published by Wombat Books.
A young girl and her
toddler brother visit their sleeping grandmother in an aged care home and help
‘brighten her dreams’ and the lives of the resident community. The book
celebrates the joy of intergenerational connection and the valuable ways children
can engage in the care of their grandparents. Winner of the children’s book
section of CALEB award 2014, and shortlisted for Speech Pathology Book of the
Year 2014. All author royalties donated to the Hazel Hawke Dementia Research
and Care fund.
Do you
remember? by Kelly O’Gara and Anna McNeil. Published by Wombat Books.
A beautiful exploration
between a child and their ageing grandparent presented with outstanding
illustrations by newcomer illustrator, Kelly O’Gara. Children will relate
to the mice as they read the story and understand their grandparent’s
condition. The book can cater for multiple ageing conditions but specifically
is focussed on explaining dementia to children.
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