December 3, 2015
When we first launched our Kids Need Connections child abuse prevention campaign in 2014, our “Children’s Stories That Build Resiliency” was a huge hit. We have presented at various conferences and given several workshops throughout Virginia highlighting not only the 15 stories but also resiliency theory and how to build resiliency in children.
We were asked to consider coming up with a list of young adult stories that build resiliency so that we could reach an even wider audience of children, youth and the adults who connect with them, so we did. We have only chosen 6 from the thousands of titles that are out there, but we think that you will find they address a wide array of topics, family dynamics and social issues all with the end goal of creating more resilient children and youth.
Our list is available here, along with questions that you should use as discussion points as you connect with the tweens and teens in your life. The thoughtful questions can provoke great conversation and better prepare youth to handle life’s obstacles and develop empathy skills. These stories–along with your listening skills–provide them with a safe environment to talk through how they might handle themselves in similar situations, and how they can relate to the strong male and female characters of these stories.
The titles would make great stocking stuffers and Holiday presents for the young adults on your list. Just be sure to give them the questions that go along with them – that is where the true gift lies.
– Tracy Leonard, Public Education Manager
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