Workshop - Anxiety and Young Children

Yesterday I had the enormous pleasure of presenting a one hour talk to year 12 students at Glenwood High School on the topic of anxiety and young children as part of their studies in Early Childhood. A really lovely bunch of girls, fabulous staff and morning tea. What more could I ask for? We discussed the influences on a child's emotional,cognitive, physical and social development and pondered the impact of personality, environmental factors such as the mother's emotional state and technology on young children (and teens also). I was impressed by the students' insightful questions. Their fabulous librarian, Radha, had come across my newest book, 12 Annoying Monsters - Self Talk for Children with Anxiety and thought it perfect for the class.

School Writing workshops for Kids NSW

Yesterday I had a HUGE day at Emu Heights Public School and enjoyed every second! From Kinder to year six they were all fantastic listeners and some wonderful stories came out of the pre-workshop writing task. So proud of you all!

For the first time in my career I got to chat about my drawings as for this last book I am both author and illustrator. The sketches of my monsters scored huge laughs and much animated discussion, even comments from the teachers!

All day I was treated like Royalty by lovely Librarian Vicki and made to feel warmly welcomed by Principal Mike and his staff.

In the meet and greet session kids came for a chat and to purchase their own copies of my books and have them signed. Many wanted to tell me about stories or illustrations they are working on. There were some very thoughtful questions too, such as 'what inspires you to write?' and 'Would you ever get sick of reading?' Hopefully I shared my love of reading to them all and encouraged the reluctant readers among them to find that illusive book that will switch on their own obsession for good...

I had a wonderful time, guys. Thanks so much for having me!

This monster was created by one of the very clever and talented students! To see more monsters: Emu Heights Monsters

12 Annoying Monsters - anxiety book getting great reaction

My newest book, 12 Annoying Monsters, - Self Talk for Kids with Anxiety is receiving a wonderful reaction from kids, parents, psychologists and teachers!

- "It's a beautiful book ... well worth not only a review, but also a purchase and promotion! Well done Dawn. "

- "This little book is of great value for the mental and emotional health of children and our own child within. Thank you Dawn Meredith for sharing your insightful professional experience."

So many people struggle daily with keeping a lid on their negative thoughts and the physical sensations that go with feeling controlled by anxiety. It's the pits! But my book is quietly helping people and that's exactly why I wrote it!
You can purchase it from AMAZON or fivesenseseducation.com.au

You might know someone, child or adult, who suffers with anxious thoughts. This could be the book that makes the difference for them. Many parents read it and see themselves as a child (and adult!) and find the simple, practical explanations and advice very helpful. For kids, the illustrations are black and white line drawings for them to colour in and make it their own special book. Read more about it here: 12 annoying monsters book

Here I am with writer friend, the lovely Katrina Germein, author of truly marvellous books for children, at the recent SCBWI conference in Sydney. My fave books of Katrina's are 'Little Dog' and the 'My Dad...' series.Check out her work here:
http://katrinagermein.com/

That's it for now. Have a great day!