Synopsis
The author and illustrator of this bright, upbeat new children's book are clear: We can inspire our kids to wash their hands, and maintain other simple health protocols, without demonizing germs, adding more fear and anxiety to their already over-stressed lives. Neither do we need to encourage them to wage “war” on microbes as if these are the enemy. Nor should we inspire shame and panic when any of us forget or don't do it “right.”
Sure our kids need to wash their hands! We all benefit from this, especially now when faced with a global pandemic. But there is an alternative to fear-based and germ-phobic approaches in presenting a simple rhyming “song” that kids can learn and sing for the length of their hand-washing procedure. This is a positive way to elicit fun, and a light-hearted relationship to health, while at the same time making the point clear.
The illustrator, Jacques Laliberte has presented us with an imaginary friend who guides the child through the steps in a playful, lyrical and comforting way. Many children love imaginary creatures and will easily relate to this “Big-Bird”-type cohort.
The author, an early childhood educator, is the director of the Family and World Health series of Kalindi Press/Hohm Press. She has for years been committed to children's health and well-being in her other books (We Like to Move, We Like to Eat Well, Stand Up, the Courage to Care) and in her advocacy of the health benefits of breastfeeding.
The book is available in both English only and bilingual versions and is written in simple language which encourages parent education as well as principles of healthy childcare.
About the Authors
Education director of Family & World Health Series, the Children's Division of Hohm Press/Kalindi Press. She is founder of “Discover the Hero Within” – a program of anti-bullying workshops for teachers, parents and children. Elyse taught elementary and high school students for over 12 years in both public and homeschool settings. She was a CPS worker for Child Welfare in Poughkeepsie, NY, as well as a recreation therapist. She has authored many books on children's health and wellness and likes to spend her free time kayaking on nearby lakes. B.S. M.S. Education & Theatre, S.U.N.Y New Paltz
Artist, illustrator, writer and designer, Jacques has focused on architectural projects in the Northern Arizona area. He has taught college-level drawing and wrote “Raw Draw” (www.RawDrawtheBook.com) collecting his class lessons about seeing the artistry in our surroundings. Cartooning and whimsical books are on his drawing table these days.
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