by Beth Tyson
Illustrated by Adam Walker-Parker
Date: Saturday, November 16 at 9:30 AM PDT
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Cost: Suggested donation $10 US.
While we provide an option to attend this webinar for free, as a nonprofit we depend on donations and your contribution is greatly appreciated!
Description
Are you caring for a child with BIG emotions related to loss and childhood trauma? A Grandfamily for Sullivan is a therapeutic story, designed with soothing imagery and sensitive language to help children cope with life after adverse childhood experiences (ACES).
Sullivan is a scared koala who suddenly has to live with his Grandma when his parents are unable to keep him safe. He is worried about his parents and what will happen next in his life, but he is too afraid to talk to Grandma about his thoughts and feelings. One day at the park, Grandma tries to be helpful, but Sullivan lashes out at her in anger! While he is taking time to cool off, Sullivan meets a friend who walked in his shoes before. This new friend teaches Sullivan how to find the courage to move forward with his life.In this tenderhearted story, a child removed from his parents due to abuse and neglect can find hope using the same techniques that help Sullivan manage his thoughts and feelings. Throughout the story, children learn to: Identify sensations in their bodies related to negative emotions, build mindfulness skills for managing anxiety, find the courage to share their thoughts with others, understand that all families are different, and accept that life is often uncertain.
A Grandfamily for Sullivan builds awareness for foster, kinship, and adoptive families, and teaches children how to empathize with peers from various family constellations. It is a must-read book to help reduce bullying and instill empathy for children who are raised by someone other than their biological parents. Come join Sullivan, his Grandma, and a wise friend as they weather the storms of life in this empowering story about family separation, courage, and what it's like to become a grandfamily. A Grandfamily for Sullivan is a crucial resource for families broken apart by mental health issues, incarceration, and the opioid epidemic. But, this book is more than a story, it is empowering young people to take control of their mental health. In the back of the book there is a list of remarkable people who have been raised by grandparents or relatives, additional coping techniques for children, and trauma-informed parenting guidance.
What people are saying about the book
"I was so excited to see this book land on my doorstep. I read it with my grandson while I cried throughout the book. It was spot on like it was written just for us. My Grandson was very still and quiet, not his usual response to storytime. When we were done, my husband came in, and the three of us had a pinky swear pact that we are officially a Grandfamily. Thank you so much! I can't wait to give a copy to our Kinship Support Worker."
~ Christine, A Grandmother raising her Grandson
"I feel calm" - Avery, eight years old.”"I showed my family therapist your book, she loved it so much that she immediately bought a copy for the children she works with. Your good work is gaining ground!"
~ Danny, Grandparent Raising Grandchildren
About the Author
Beth Tyson, MA, is a mom, a childhood trauma consultant, author, CASA volunteer, and co-chair of the PA Child Abuse Prevention Team.
With a background as a family-based trauma therapist, she honed her expertise in stabilizing mental health crises within foster, kinship, and adoptive homes. Motivated by her therapeutic work, Beth founded Beth Tyson Trauma Consulting to spread awareness and advocate for trauma-responsive care across various organizations. Her commitment to empowering communities led her to pen three best-selling books, including therapeutic resources for children like "A Grandfamily for Sullivan" and "Sullivan Goes to See Mama." Notably, she co-created the animated YouTube series "All Connected," offering valuable insights into trauma recovery for teens. Beyond her professional endeavors, Beth cherishes her role as a mother, instilling her daughter with a passion for skiing and a penchant for making positive waves in the world.
Facilitator to be determined
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