Two young creatives have paired up to create a children’s picture book, to help primary school aged kids navigate grief.
Maribyrnong local Amber Sindoni and co-author Benjamin Gregory said the book reflects their friendship.
“This project felt relevant to our experiences, it’s a reflection especially of Ben’s relationship with his late mum,” said Ms Sindoni.
The book writing began three years ago when Ben tragically lost his mum to cancer.
“I originally wanted to write a book to give my mum when she was sick battling her illness,” said Mr Gregory.
“…When she passed I wanted to work on a project that incorporated her values,my whole life mum taught me about affirmations and how they help you to grow.”
“When my mum passed away they helped me get through that, so this story is designed to help kids learn about affirmations and how they can help.”
The book titled ‘Safe, Happy and Healthy’, is designed for primary school aged kids to aid tackle the daily challenges of anxiety.
The book uses affirmation to help Billy, overcome feelings of fear and anxiety in social settings, unknown environments and in loss.
“The story is very drawn from my mum’s story and takes her teachings to help Billy,” said Mr Gregory.
Ms Sindoni hopes the book will create awareness and community around these topics.
“We want to encourage families to talk about mental health and be open and honest about vulnerable feelings,” she said.
The book will launch on Sunday, October 1, but before then the duo would like to embark on a book tour in primary schools.
The tour would take place in term four, to undertake workshops with students between prep and year 6, relating to wellbeing.
Jennifer Pittorino
