There's no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone. How do parents explain to their children that they can't go to birthday parties or attend school because they might catch a disease? How do they convince them to wear a mask without scaring them? Fortunately, children's book authors are recognizing the need for stories that introduce children to this "new normal" in a way that they can handle. While reading When We Stayed Home, children learn that staying home more just opens up their world to new adventures. In the story, a little boy becomes a "super-helper" by making cookies for the neighbors and waving at friends walking their dog. He discovers new interests, like putting together puzzles and building forts. This book also acknowledges the not-so-good parts of staying home, like missing get-togethers with friends and getting hugs, but little readers learn in the end that while they may not have everything they want, they have everything they need. Best of all, they'll feel less alone when they realize that other kids are going through the same things they are.
About the book:
When COVID-19 traveled the globe, we were prompted to stay home, wash our hands frequently, socially distance and wear masks to remain safe and help the helpers. For children who don’t yet grasp the concept of time and haven’t weathered enough life to understand the art of endurance, it’s been a particularly complicated and sometimes trying time.
When We Stayed Home looks at one young boy’s pandemic journey and, through colorful illustrations and heartfelt prose, we see how he has used his trusty imagination and childlike creativity to navigate the trials of staying home day after day, becoming a super-helper in the process while missing family, friends, school and the "normal" life he once knew. From decorating adorable toilet paper-shaped sugar cookies, building forts, painting and doing puzzles to frequent screen dates and dance parties with family and friends, young children will relate to his joys and sadnesses, and how they too found connection and even serene moments of happiness while isolating. The book will comfort, entertain, and stir conversation about feelings and experiences the youngest stay-at-homers have experienced during these improbable times.
Tara Fass, LMFT
Written by Tara Fass, LMFT and Judith A. Proffer, the book was inspired by Proffer's five-year-old nephew, who continued to find big moments of mirth in home, nature, adventures and activities while at times tearfully longing for the virus to go far, far away. Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist Fass has worked with families during the pandemic to navigate its bumpy road with tools, optimism and hope. This is their second book collaboration.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book to facilitate my honest review. This post contains my Amazon affiliate link, and I will receive a small commission on purchases made through this link.
