Reading to teach and heal: Best books for 8-12 year olds

Books are great tools for teaching empathy to children. They can help kids understand what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes — someone with a physical or mental disability, chronic illness or learning difference. They can also help kids with medical issues see how other kids cope — which can be validating or even help spark new ideas. And books help younger generations recognize that no matter what obstacle they may face, they’re still just kids, and they’re not alone. Today, many children’s book authors are weaving characters with medical conditions into their stories with appropriate sensitivity to both inform and create a sense of understanding among readers. Here are four must-reads for 8-12 year olds:   An unexpected curve Featured book: BRACED, by Alyson Gerber For ages: 11 and up Medical condition: Scoliosis While this novel from debut author Alyson Gerber just hit the bookshelves on March 28, “Braced” has already received rave reviews. When seventh-grader and avid-soccer-player Rachel Brooks finds out that she has scoliosis, she has to wear a back brace for 23 hours a day, which she believes will not only change the way others see her, but also the way she sees herself. As someone who wore a brace growing up, Gerber has crafted an authentic and inspiring story for her readers. “My hope is that by raising awareness about and sensitivity for kids with scoliosis, Rachel’s story might be a gateway to heightened underst...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Parenting autism cerebral palsy craniofacial anomaly scoliosis Source Type: news