New resource for children who have experienced trauma

(WINNIPEG, MB) – Today New Directions for Children, Youth, Adults & Families (New Directions) and the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (Canadian Centre) launched a new resource for those working with children who have experienced trauma.

This storybook, Big Feelings Come and Go, explains the concept of freeze, flight and fight in a child-friendly way. An age-appropriate resource, the book helps adults introduce methods of self-regulation in a way children can follow along and practice.

“We want kids to trust themselves, and their feelings,” says Dr. Jennifer Frain, CEO of New Directions. “When kids can pinpoint what they’re feeling, they’re more capable of dealing with their reactions in the moment. We’re thrilled to have worked with the Canadian Centre to provide this much needed resource to families and organizations dealing with childhood trauma and those big feelings, every day.”

The Canadian Centre works to reduce victimization and sexual exploitation of children through a number of national programs, services, and resources.

“New Directions’ expertise in child trauma and recovery drove the direction of this book,” says Noni Classen, Director of Education at the Canadian Centre. “We are excited to work together and bring in our educational expertise, helping create a resource that will foster children’s ability to manage overwhelming feelings arising from trauma experiences and stress.”

Big Feelings Come and Go can be ordered or downloaded from protectchildren.ca.