OCD Leave Me Be
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Lila, a worried second grader, cannot stop thinking about getting sick and she has no idea why. This is Lila's story of discovering she has OCD and learning how she can beat her OCD monster. OCD Leave Me Be
Age
4-12
Length
44 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character feels when they try to manage their OCD?
What are some ways the character copes with their feelings, and how might you cope if you felt the same?
Can you think of a time when you felt like something had to be done a certain way? How did you handle it?
Why do you think it's important for the character to have supportive friends and family?
What does this story teach us about understanding and helping others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ensure a calm and comfortable environment to make discussing the book’s themes more open and relaxed.
Validate your child’s feelings and thoughts as they discuss the character’s experiences, reinforcing that all feelings are okay to share.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider what they would do if they were in the main character’s shoes.
Highlight the importance of acceptance and support shown in the book, connecting it to your child’s life.
Use examples from the book to talk about the importance of self-care and seeking help when overwhelmed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy towards those with OCD
Explanation: The book portrays the main character's struggles with OCD in a relatable and compassionate way, helping young readers understand the emotional complexities of the disorder.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing more patience and empathy towards peers who may struggle with similar issues, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment at school and in social settings.
Example Lesson: The importance of seeking help
Explanation: The story encourages the protagonist to seek support from family and professionals to manage her OCD, highlighting the importance of not facing such challenges alone.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of asking for help when facing difficult situations, emphasizing that reaching out is a sign of strength and an important step in managing personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming personal challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, the character faces various challenges due to her OCD but learns to cope and adapt, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply this resilience to their own lives, understanding that while obstacles are part of life, they can overcome them with perseverance and the right support.
Example Lesson: Awareness of mental health from a young age
Explanation: By introducing the concept of OCD and mental health challenges through the protagonist's experiences, the book educates young readers on these important issues early on.
Real-World Application: This lesson equips children with the knowledge to better understand their own emotions and those of others, promoting early mental health awareness and proactive attitudes towards mental wellbeing.