New children’s resource at Wren
Children with a person staying at the Women’s Recovery Network (Wren) now have access to an activity book designed to help them feel oriented and safe while their person is away from home.
Featuring illustrations, puzzles, reflection prompts and photos of Wren's rooms and spaces, the activity book is designed to help children understand where their person is staying and the care they are receiving.
Consumer Consultant at Wren Maria Bradshaw said the activity book meets the unique needs of a specialised women’s service.
“A large number of our participants are parents. Having a parent go into hospital can be a confusing time for children who remain at home,” said Maria.
“We identified a need for a way to introduce Wren as the place their parent is getting support and care for their mental health.”
Families where a parent has a mental illness (FaPMI) Coordinator Alice Morgan said including and acknowledging children’s experiences are an essential element in a family’s recovery journey.
“Having a book like this with activities, pictures and questions allows for consistent, age appropriate, interactive conversations between children and their trusted adults,” said Alice.
“As a result they’re provided with reassurance, explanations and a chance for their questions to be answered. We know this helps children’s overall wellbeing.”
The activity book was developed using a co-design process, in which a volunteer team with lived experience of mental illness diagnosis worked in consultation to shape the booklet’s many features, including layout, word choice, activities, colour scheme and visual elements.
“The co-design process is a way for different people from different backgrounds, whether that be lived or carer experience, to come together to work on a project,” said co-design working group member Karuna Santosa.
“I personally appreciate the Acknowledgment of Country poem and the associated colouring space, along with the educational information helping young children process their feelings.”
Hayley Stanich, also a member of the co-design working group, said the experience was immensely fulfilling.
“The collaborative effort ensured that the book is not only informative but also engaging and approachable for children,” said Hayley.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our insights helped create a resource that can comfort and guide young visitors during a challenging time.”
