Do you know what bibliotherapy is?
Bibliotherapy applies a strategically suggested reading of any literature, article or book. It has been found very effective in child and adult therapy.
Does it sound like a new concept?
Not really. Just think about it, many of us have been involved in some sort of bibliotherapy many times in our lives while reading a book or any literature or a poem and by resonating with its characters and story. Didn't it give you a trivial sense of healing? I am sure it did. 🙂 So, how about if I tell you, a parent can be their child's own bibliotherapist with dedicated efforts. Yes, I am to give you some simple steps wherein parents can use this therapy at home for any child struggling to let their feelings out or undergoing any trauma.
Let's start with who needs bibliotherapy:
Anyone who has contact with a child who is experiencing emotional turmoil or confronting new issues. Reading a story with a child, if done in an empathetic, understanding atmosphere, can reinforce a positive sense of worth and increase the parent/child bond and the child's confidence.
Selection of reading material:
A right story or poem is very essential during this time when a child is going through any mental stress or trauma. There are several sources for appropriate books or reading material for children. It may take time to find an appropriate book for use with your child, because you want it to be closely related to the issue, or offer a story to which the protagonist is the one your child can relate to.
Characters in stories should be either humans or animals, some kind of real-life biographies. Ask yourself which will be more appropriate for your child? The storyline and characters do not have to match your situation exactly, but be sure there is some commonality. Don’t compromise. Take your time, visit libraries and bookstores or search online.
When can I start expecting an outcome?
Immediate results cannot be expected. In fact, with some resistant children, this method will seem to fail miserably. Time is the critical factor. Talking about emotions may be difficult and the child may be resistant but with the help from a caring adult, she/he can learn to deal with issues and not ignore them. Not attending to an issue can often lead to more problems down the line.
Giving your child the space to explore issues in an open and trusting environment will further validate her/his feelings both about her/himself and you. Select and read mindfully and be patient with the entire timelapse.
The therapy of Bibliography is time taking but extremely effective with everlasting effects and healing. For adults, it is conjoined with writing and other variants.
Go ahead try it and let me know how it helped you bond better with your kids in the comments below.
Mansi Zaveri
Rati Ramadas Girish
Janani S Koushik
KSP Team
