More on KentOnline
A Sheppey woman is about to release her third book, which is part of a set that helps children understand their bodies and emotions.
Amanda Peddle, 51, from Minster, has already published two Tam’s Journey novels and is set to release the third in May.
The books are about teaching a little boy, Tam, the science behind his reactions, the feelings of his body and how his brain works.
Mrs Peddle, of Inside Out - Outreach Services for Young People, has been working with schools across the borough to help young people better understand their emotions for 20 years.
Using the books, she hopes to “get rid of the shame and stigma” around feelings and prevent children from “slipping through the net”.
The mother-of-one said: “Teaching young people the ‘how and why’ of emotions can remove stigma and calm some of the worry around reactions.
“By sharing a learning experience, like a story, they can develop their understanding of why we respond the way we do. This leads to a greater self-awareness and, in turn, an opportunity to challenge some of those reactions.”
Mrs Peddle said she’d like to see the Tam’s Journey books “in every home and coffee shop” so more people could have “better conversations” with their children and families.
The books, which are being purchased across the globe including in India and Canada, are written for all ages but help, in particular, with autism and special educational needs.
They have also been recommended by Sue Atkins, the ITV This Morning parenting expert.
Buy them at tams-journey.myshopify.com or online at Amazon and Waterstones