Thursday, April 8, 6:30-7:30pm
Join us for a read aloud of two books written and inspired by authors local to Southeastern MA. Whitman Hanson WILL is partnering with Hanson Public Library to host a Virtual Story Time on Thursday, April 8, 2021 from 6:30-7:30pm via Zoom.
During the first half hour of this event, elementary aged youth are encouraged to join their families in listening to two stories written by local authors/organizations Sarah Cloud (Penning for Hope) and Theresa Harmon (To The Moon and Back). The stories Sam the Superhero and his Super Life and Mama Paca: My Heart Won’t Let You Go address topics around family substance use, grief, and loss, and leave behind messages of hope and resilience for elementary aged youth.
While these heavy topics are not something that any one single story can completely capture, the goal in addressing these themes at a young age is to ensure youth know this is a safe topic to ask questions around. In addition, creating common language by using age appropriate terms helps build a foundation for continuing this conversation in the future.
The second half hour of this event will be an opportunity for adults to “Meet the Authors” and ask questions around these topics. In addition, there will be staff with expertise in the field of behavioral health who can provide support around any questions or concerns that may arise. An elementary appropriate activity will be offered as a “make and take” which will be given out prior to the event by picking up the crafts at the Hanson Public Library. The first 15 attendees to request the craft activity will be able to pick up the crafts at the library a week in advance and a staff member will follow up with additional details. This craft will allow youth to have something to work on while adults listen in on the Q&A.