Picture books to help children in Jersey understand dementia

Children across Jersey will be given access to books designed to help them understand dementia.

Every Child Our Future and Dementia Jersey have partnered up to provide picture books which explore dementia in "sensitive and age-appropriate ways". The books are set to be distributed among schools and community groups across the island.

CEO of Dementia Jersey Claudine Snape said dementia often affected families, including children.

"Having books that we can share with schools and recommend to families is a really valuable way of helping children understand dementia in a language that feels accessible and reassuring," she said.

The collection includes stories exploring memory loss, family relationships and the impact dementia can have on people's lives.

Among the titles are Why Does Grandad Forget? by Rebecca Oxtoby and Elmer and the Gift by David McKee.

A donation from the Lions Club of Jersey Swimarathon made production of the books possible.

Nicola Mackereth, programme manager at Every Child Our Future, said: "Books can give children a safe and gentle way into conversations about subjects that might otherwise be difficult to talk about."

Samares Primary School headteacher Jenny Posner welcomed the books.

She said they would give teachers "a valuable resource to support children's understanding of dementia and encourage sympathy".

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