A new storybook co-authored by Child Protection Expert at the Department of Communities, Verity Roennfeldt explores the impact of family violence on children.
Part of the Story Animals Program, the book was launched by the Minister for Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, Simone McGurk.
The book, Peta’s Yarn, stars Peta the puggle and Sam the cockatoo, and is the latest title in a series of therapeutic children’s books that feature Australian animals and use metaphorical situations to examine ‘tough stuff’ experienced by children that can lead to heavy emotions.
Ms Roennfeldt joined the Minister for the book launch and a special reading of Peta’s Yarn to a group of young listeners at the State Library of Western Australia.
Ms McGurk said the book was a sensitive, responsive and practical resource that was designed to be utilised by parents, foster carers, child protection workers, family violence support services, educators, psychologists and others to help young people.
“Storytelling is a powerful tool for establishing cultural education and assisting young people who have experienced trauma with the healing process,” Ms McGurk said.
“Growing up in an environment cruelled by family violence can have a devastating impact on a child.”
She said the Story Animals Program provided unique and child-focused resources that specifically helped affected children with coming to terms with their experiences in a safe and nurturing way.
Details of Peta’s Yarn and others in the Story Animals Program can be accessed on the Department of Communities website at this PS News link.
