It's tough to explain certain subjects to kids. Questions like, “Where do babies come from?” or, “Why do I have to wear a mask outside?” can leave parents speechless. When reality is too troublesome or complex for young minds, moms and dads often turn to storytellers for a solution. But there’s no enchanting tale to guide children through a pandemic. Splashing paint and words of hope onto this blank page, writer and illustrator Matthew Griffiths is helping families better understand the crisis.
During a lockdown to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Griffiths decided to do something meaningful in isolation. “Making information available to children has never been more important than it is right now,” he says. With schools closed and a shortage of age-appropriate resources available, many children were left in the dark about the current situation. “I noticed that there was a lot of information out there for adults and it was quite technical,” Griffiths says. “I wanted to translate that and create something new for children.” So, he wrote and illustrated The Inside Book.
Employing simple language and captivating images, Griffiths’ book describes the coronavirus and the importance of social distancing. From how the virus spreads to best hygiene practices, the colourful pages impart useful knowledge for kids at home. A variety of fun, indoor activities are also included to encourage play and ward off boredom. Griffiths has made the book free to access online and translated it into numerous languages, ensuring it reaches as many people as possible.
In harnessing his ingenuity, Griffiths has helped parents and children around the world navigate this tough time together. “When we share information and connect through understanding, we all have the opportunity to grow,” he says. With the whole family on the same page, time at home can now be relished with learning and laughter.
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