Coronavirus books for children
Even adults are finding it hard to get their heads around the new “normal” – so how can you help your child understand how and why the coronavirus pandemic has changed our lives?
Below are selection of downloadable e-books exploring practical ways young children can avoid infection and transmission and have a better understanding of the current restrictions and condition we live in.
Coronavirus: A Book for Children
Written in consultation with an infectious diseases specialist and illustrated by Axel Scheffler of The Gruffalo, this nonfiction picture book offers children information about transmission, symptoms and the possibility of a cure, reassuring readers that doctors and scientists are working on developing a vaccine.
My Hero is You! How kids can fight COVID-19
“My Hero is You”, a story developed for and by children around the world, offers a way for children and parents to together think about the questions the pandemic raises. Designed to be read by a parent, caregiver or teacher alongside a child or a small group of children, the story was shaped by more than 1,700 children, parents, caregivers and teachers from around the world who took the time to share how they are coping with the impact of COVID-19.
The project was developed by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Reference Group on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings, and supported by global, regional and country based experts, in addition to parents, caregivers, teachers and children in 104 countries.
The Princess in Black and the Case of the Coronavirus
Written by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, The Princess in Black and the Case of the Coronavirus is about Princess Magnolia who enlists children to help with a problem she cannot defeat alone: here, of course, that problem is coronavirus. The Princess in Black shows a deft use of humour to introduce children to complex ideas in a familiar and friendly manner.
A Message from Corona
Written by Charity Tedder, A Message from Corona explains how the virus has travelled around the world and why hand-washing, social distancing and lockdown are so vital. It’s clear and informative and can be read to young children or self-read by ages 6-7 and above.
Staying Home
Written by Sally Nicholls and Viviane Schwarz, Staying Home is based on a family of raccoons go through a day in lockdown – there’s no school, no nursery, no work outside the home, but lots of hand-washing, time together, a daily walk and lots of questions about what’s happening (and when it’s going to end). A wonderful and warm way to explain to the youngest members of your family how they’re doing their part to save lives just by staying home, Staying Home might become a new favourite read, even after this crisis is over.
COVIBOOK
Written by Manuela Molina, this is a child-friendly book that can be used by parents and teachers when talking to children about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). It was created for families and educators all over the world, and is intended to support and reassure children under the age of 7. It is an invitation to families to discuss the full range of emotions arising from the current situation. The book is not a scientific tool, but based on fantasy and imagination with space for children’s own drawings.
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