The Sunshine on My Face

Two-Lap Books® have provided a truly enjoyable way to spend time with loved ones who are experiencing memory loss. This beautiful anniversary edition of The Sunshine on My Face presents the pictures and stories that readers have come to love while introducing new content to make interactions with loved ones even more meaningful. Just sit down together, open this colorful and engaging book across both laps, and begin reading, talking, singing, joking, and reminiscing. You can use this versatile book in many ways: turn to favorite pages, sing songs to match the themes, or simply read together from beginning to end. Tips on how to promote engagement with the book are provided, as well as song suggestions for each illustration. In this innovative book, colorful illustrations accompany short, easy-to-read text that describes universally appealing experiences: feeling the warmth of the sun on your face, listening to music, watching children play, going for a ride in the countryside, and more. Pictures and text together will spark boundless opportunities to discuss and remember happy times and comforting experiences. Reading The Sunshine on My Face is an instant activity; no planning or preparation is required. Although Alzheimer’s disease and other brain disorders can interfere with communication skills, this book stimulates remaining abilities and lets you connect in positive ways. Use this book to start conversation, encourage physical closeness, promote intergenerational exchanges with children, or provide a calming diversion. A Two-Lap Book’s appeal is universal and timeless.

With a master's degree in Clinical Practices (psychology), Lydia Burdick's career has been in human resources. Since 1993, she has been a consultant at an international outplacement firm. Lydia wrote The Sunshine on My Face in the course of caring for her mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. "One of my greatest pleasures," she says, "was sitting together with my mother and hearing her read the words from this book when she had otherwise stopped speaking almost entirely."