Cart

0

The Brave Space

In The Brave Space, you’ll meet Poda, a young porcupine who feels alone. Along his journey with the other animals, Poda learns that those around him do want to help but even they sometimes don’t know how to do it.

He learns it’s important to tell them what he needs. Importantly, he also learns that there is nothing ‘wrong’ with him. He’s special and unique with many friends just waiting for him to open the door to meaningful conversation.

A Brave Space is all about creating a supportive environment in which people feel empowered to take risks, make mistakes, talk about feelings, and learn from one another.

SKU: sku1045678

$20.00

An image of The Brave Space book cover.

Description

It’s true. One in 10 children and young people ages 5 to 16 years have a clinically diagnosable mental health problem, yet 70% have not had appropriate interventions. Why? Whether it’s shame, feeling embarrassed to ask for help, or simply not knowing what to say or do, their feelings can be overwhelming and lead to even greater vulnerabilities.

But the fact is, everyone has things they are dealing with, be it physical, emotional, or sensory. Some of these needs may be obvious. But, often, they are unfortunately hidden. Particularly for children, it’s important to encourage sharing feelings even when it’s hard to find the words.

In The Brave Space, you’ll meet Poda, a young porcupine who feels alone. Along his journey with the other animals, Poda learns that those around him do want to help but even they sometimes don’t know how to do it. He learns it s important to tell them what he needs. Importantly, he also learns that there is nothing ‘wrong’ with him. He’s special and unique with many friends just waiting for him to open the door to meaningful conversation. A Brave Space is all about creating a supportive environment in which people feel empowered to take risks, make mistakes, talk about feelings, and learn from one another.

Additional information

Weight	0.66875 lbs
Dimensions	8.5 × 8.5 × .25 in

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Be the first to review “The Brave Space”

You must be logged in to post a review.

How You Can Help

Whether you are a parent, teacher, grandparent, or caregiver, you can help a child deal with their big emotions. At the end of the book is a helpful guide for how you can start important dialogues with children who may be struggling. Simply reading this book together is a great place to start. Then, use the helpful questions that follow to continue the conversation and help them understand they are not alone.

There is a time and place for professional consultation. When in doubt, seek help. But if you are waiting for an appointment or simply want to participate in addressing a situation, this book can be a tool for you.

FAQs

Do a lot of kids struggle with big feelings they can’t express?

Yes, most kids do. It is typical. Kids don’t always have the words to express the complicated emotions or thoughts they often experience.

Is it just a phase everyone goes through?

It is typical development for children (or any of us) to have periods of more intense emotions. It is our job as adults/caregivers to help them organize their feelings and experiences during such times so they can work through it.

What can I do as a parent to help?

As a parent, support your child. It is not about agreeing with the intensity or reason for the feeling – it is about making sure that a child never, ever feels alone in their feelings. That may mean sitting near them, holding them, walking with them, etc. With older kids, it can be sending them a text letting them know you care, you know this is difficult, and that you are there for them.

When should I be concerned?

You should be concerned and/or talk to a professional when there is a disruption in a child’s everyday functioning - eating, sleeping, relationships, school, etc. Each child is unique, and you may need help from a professional to navigate the intensity, duration, and frequency of a child’s emotions/behaviors.

How do you know if it is time to seek help from a professional vs. trying to deal with it as a parent?

The best advice is that, If a parent has questions or doubt, seek help. If nothing else, a professional can provide the tips and tools to support you as well as the child. Relationships and development can be hard! And so can being a parent, sometimes. Reaching out for help can make it easier

About The Author

Anna Clavin is a Minnesota Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who helps individuals, couples, and families by supporting courage and growth through a family systems perspective and trauma and culturally informed care.