The Child Health Library at Princess Margaret Hospital has recently added ”Helping children with complex needs bounce back” by Kim Aumann and Angie Hart to our collection.  This book provides information on the latest ideas on helping children to build resilience.  It also offers ideas and activities for parents and health workers who want to help a child improve their resilience.

I notice a review for the book on the Jessica Kingsley Publishers website suggests that this is a really practical resource for families that are feeling the pressure.  Here is part of what one reviewer had to say,

‘….We know that families value high quality emotional and practical support, but often lack the right advice that enables them to achieve ‘ordinary’ lives. The past decade has seen growing interest in the concept of developing resilience in both children and parents. This book offers a “magic box” of ideas, and a menu of coping strategies for families and those who support them. The emphasis is on practical steps forward, positive and achievable outcomes, with the end result of families feeling confident and competent in helping their own child to make progress.’
- Dr Philippa Russell, Chair of Standing Commission on Carers

If you happen to borrow this book, I’d be very pleased to hear your thoughts.  Also thanks to Jane for letting us know about this new parent resource.

Being informed about your child

I dropped by the library at PMH today and spoke with Helen the librarian.

Together we reviewed the collection on arthritis and parenting children with a chronic conditon.

I borrowed a book called The Resilient Family -Living with your child’s illness or disability.

Helen told me the parenting books are frequently borrowed as they are often recommended by PMH staff.

She also said that generally speaking parents rarely use the library.  Library staff are mostly kept busy with requests from hospital staff.

It was clear to me that there are some excellent books in the collection and the staff are keen to help parents find what they are looking for.

I recommend you check out  the Child Health Library and Information Service on the ground floor, level 4 at PMH.

To use this free service:

• You can visit Monday to Friday 9-12 and 1-3.
• You can phone a request through on 93400 7333.
• Emails can be sent on pmh.chl@health.wa.gov.au
• Fax requests can be sent on 9340 7441
• The library collection can be reviewed here at this Online Catalogue.

I didn’t realise staff are happy to post books out if you find it difficult to pick them up. You can post them back in when you are ready.

Library photo courtesy of eflon at Flick Creative Commons.