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< Picture Books Library
Categories: Infectious Diseases

My Hero Is You

This free e-book contains lots of information for children to help them cope with anxieties surrounding Coronavirus.
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My Hero Is You

Author: Helen Patuck
Illustrator: Helen Patuck
Publisher: IASC MHPSS RG

“Sometimes the most important thing we can do as friends is protect each other, even if that means staying away from each other for a while'”

Written to support children all over the world in the time of COVID-19 and available in many different languages, this free e-picture book tells the story of Sara, a young girl who goes on a magical journey with a dragon called Ario. The pair visit many locations worldwide, hearing the stories of the children they encounter and learning about the things they do to protect themselves and calm their fears. Ario has his own suggestions too, including using breathing techniques and visualisation, when you feel scared. The story is a little convoluted, but covers some little-featured topics, including a positive description of a child whose father is shielding for medical reasons and an honest conversation with children at  a refugee camp. The story also addresses a child’s fear of dying from the virus, and gently explains that although some people do die, it’s usually older people or those with other illnesses. Some of the topics covered (such as border closures and lockdowns) may not still apply in certain regions and countries, but the messages about minimising social contact are still strongly relevant.

Download a free copy of the book

The messages we found in this book:

Acknowledgement:

  • Children can feel worried and scared by the virus and its effects. Sarah really wants to be able to see her friends and extended family, and go to school.
  • Change can feel scary and confusing. Over time, it begins to feel more normal.
  • It is natural to miss people you love when you can’t be near them.

Guidance:

  • There is currently no cure for COVID-19. Symptoms include coughing, fever and trouble breathing.
  • The virus spreads through coughing and sneezing, and via surfaces that have been touched by people who have the virus.
  • Keeping your distance from others can help to reduce transmission (the book mentions at least one metre), as does hand washing, coughing into your elbow and waving instead of shaking hands.
  • COVID-19 affects all people differently: some get a mild illness and others get very sick, and may even die. Older people and those with certain medical conditions have to be extra careful to avoid exposing themselves to the virus as they are more likely to become seriously ill if they do. Many will have to self-isolate.
  • Most people recover from COVID-19.
  • Make an effort to get along with your family during this time.

Hope & Inspiration:

  • Sara’s journey of discovery helps her to feel less frightened about the virus, and she learns some coping skills and techniques to help her when she feels anxious or scared.
  • Children can be ‘heroes’ by protecting themselves and others.
  • Having to stay at home is not all bad: Sasha enjoys playing and dancing with her family.
  • If we all care for each other, we will get through the pandemic.

Categories: Infectious Diseases
Tags: absence, anxiety, behaviour, brother, change, co-operation, coronavirus, fears, feelings, germs, hand washing, hygiene, illness, loneliness, loss, social distancing

What is a Parachute Book?

A challenging experience can make a young child feel as if they are in emotional free fall. As a parent, you can’t stop them falling, but you can offer them a softer landing:
a Parachute Book.

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The information provided on the Little Parachutes website is not a substitute for professional care by a qualified practitioner, and is not intended to provide medical advice. If you are concerned about the health and wellbeing of yourself or children in your care, you should always consult an appropriate healthcare professional.