Part of my career in social services was spent working in a skilled nursing facility and the other part was spent working in a preschool setting. Both jobs involved helping children and families cope with various issues, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. With that said, I thought that I would share a handful of the children’s books that I use to recommend to those dealing with such issues. Here they are:
“Tip-Tap Pop”
I like Sarah Lynn’s book “Tip-Tap Pop” for two reasons. First, it touches on the issue of memory impairment in a non-threatening and easily digestible way. Second, it provides insight into one of the ways that children can still have a relationship with their ailing loved one. Thus, it could be used as a precursor to making homemade books, CDs, DVDs and setting up activities that may be used to spur a person’s memories. As far as age appropriateness, I would recommend it for preschoolers, kindergarteners and first graders.
“What’s Happening to Grandpa?”
Maria Shriver’s book “What’s Happening to Grandpa?” is another book that you may find helpful. She has also written a second book entitled “What’s Happening to Grandma?” that covers the same issues. I like the book because it addresses some of the emotions associated with a dementia related diagnosis. It also provides child appropriate information about the condition and its effects. I found the book suitable for preschoolers as well as elementary school age children.
“Always My Grandpa: A Story for Children about Alzheimer’s Disease”
Linda Scacco’s “Always My Grandpa: A Story for Children about Alzheimer’s Disease” is another book that I found favor with. Its storyline focuses on a family that is dealing with the progression of the disease. Towards the end of the story, the grandfather is at the point where he can no longer care for himself. As such, the family has to make a decision about where he will live. From my perspective, the book would be suitable for elementary school age children.
“Remember Me?: Alzheimer’s Through the Eyes of a Child”
Sue Glass’ book “Remember Me?: Alzheimer’s Through the Eyes of a Child” also does a good job of covering some of the emotions associated with a memory impairment diagnosis. What helps to make it a standout for me is that the grandparent’s cognitive skills have deteriorated to the point that he no longer remembers his family. I can tell you from experience that such situations can be very troubling and confusing to young children. Thus, if your loved one is at that point, you may find this book helpful. What I also like about this book is that there is a Spanish version of it that is appropriate for bilingual (ESL) families.
“Singing with Momma Lou”
Lastly, I’d recommend checking out Linda Jacobs Altman’s book “Singing with Momma Lou.” In my opinion, it is an excellent book to utilize if your loved one’s condition has warranted a nursing home placement. Its storyline focuses on a little girl whose memory impaired grandmother is a nursing home resident. It touches on some of the feelings that children have about visiting relatives living in such places as well as issues related to memory loss.
Source: Personal Experience
More from this contributor:
Hair Care Items for Arthritis Sufferers Who Want Their Independence
Hearing Aid Battery Care: What New Users Need to Know
Health Care Themed Party Favor Ideas for Kids
Handy Nail Care Items for Arthritis Sufferers
