"This is a lovely and much needed book that provides an opportunity to open the conversation regarding bullying with our youngest children. In a 'question and brainstorm answers' format, Ms. Kempner's book will enable families to identify specific episodes of bullying that can occur in preschool and elementary school age children. Once identified, the readers are asked to think of alternative ways to handle the situations in which bullying can, but doesn't have to, occur." --Susan D. Boulware, M.D, Assistant Clinical Professor in Pediatrics, Yale Medical University
Endorsed and supported by The Turner's Syndrome Society of the United States, TSSUS
This anti-bullying book is designed to teach children to have empathy towards other children that may be perceived as "different." The books helps children realize how painful it is to be teased, isolated or bullied, which hopefully will inspire them to refrain from treating others in this way.
From the author:
We need to come together as parents, professionals and educators to increase the awareness of the "differences" in many of our children today. We need to teach our children tolerance and acceptance of their peers who are so-called "different." As diagnoses of Autism, ADHD and other syndromes and issues are on the rise, we have no choice but to use awareness and understanding to reinforce empathy in our children. Children that are "different" should not be made to feel like outcasts; they need to be understood, not shunned or ignored.
The author: Jennifer Kempner, LCSWR
is a mother of three children and a New York State licensed clinical therapist. She received her Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work, specializing in Child and Family Counseling, from Fordham University in New York. She has been working with children, adolescents and adults in various settings since 1999. She currently practices in Dutchess County, New York. For more information, go to http: //healingatheart.com/
The illustrator: Mish Fornal
studied at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale Florida and at the School of Visual Arts of NYC. Her illustrations represent the love she experienced in her childhood. Mish now lives in Marlboro, New York with her partner, Dale, and children Pheebee and Cooper. Mish can be found on Facebook under Mish Fornal and Sweet Sketches.