Some subjects are harder to talk to your kids about than others and often the hardest part is knowing where to start.
That's where books can help. As well as a whole section of parenting guides, Paper Plus has a huge range of children's books addressing difficult issues in age-appropriate ways, while being great reads for kids at the same time.
Stories have always helped us make sense of our world and now there are wonderful children's books that address every possible situation – from wearing braces to coping with the death of a beloved pet or relative.
This Zoo is Not for You tells the story of a platypus who has to deal with bullying from other animals at the zoo. The Snail and the Whale is a heartwarming tale of friendship with positive body image at its heart. I Don't Want To Be A Frog has quickly become a favourite with children in the 4–7 age group, using humour to show why you should always be yourself.
Old favourites like Dr Seuss stimulate young imaginations and open children's minds to the magic of words while dealing with real-world subjects like prejudice, fear, and the need to protect our environment.
Children's books address illness, divorce, and even death, with stories, pictures, and characters kids can relate to. These are books children love to read, as well as helping them deal with real life.
While books are not the answer to everything, they can help children realise they are not the only ones who have faced an issue; they are a great way to start a conversation between you and your child. And, of course, reading with your kids is always valuable child-parent time, helping children's imaginations bloom and fostering a lifelong love of books.
The Paper Plus Fantastic Finds Book Guide and Fantastic Finds For Kids and Teens Book Guide can help you find the right books for you, as a parent, and for your kids.
You can browse the guides online, or see them in any Paper Plus store - where you'll also find helpful, informed, local people to help you with your selection.
Shop online now at www.paperplus.co.nz