Our Baby is Loved
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Created to be customized and adapted to fit each family’s unique situation, Our Baby is Loved is a playful, yet poignant tool that can help children process and explore the complexity of a serious perinatal diagnosis. This book can be used by families to share information about a complicated pregnancy with children, knowing the outcome is uncertain, and can help families feel empowered to give children the gift of honest information as it pertains to their medically complicated pregnancy. Guidance on how to share medical information in a developmentally appropriate way is included, as well as information about supporting the whole family at a difficult time.
Discussion points
How do you think the baby in the book feels when everyone shows love?
What are some ways we show love to each other in our family?
Can you think of a time when you felt really loved? What happened?
Why is it important to show love to others?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you explore the book with your child, point out the expressions on the characters' faces and ask your child to guess how they might be feeling.
Relate the scenarios in the book to real-life instances where your family has shown love and care.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about each page, fostering a deeper connection to the material.
After reading, practice showing love as depicted in the book, like drawing pictures for family members or hugging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of family love and support
Explanation: The story revolves around various family members expressing their love for the new baby, demonstrating the warmth and security that a loving family provides.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to show affection and support to their family members, strengthening familial bonds and emotional security.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity in family structures
Explanation: The book showcases different family members including grandparents, step-parents, and siblings from extended families, highlighting the diversity in modern family structures.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect various family dynamics and understand that love is what truly defines a family, regardless of its structure.
Example Lesson: Sharing and cooperation
Explanation: Characters in the book are seen sharing tasks and cooperating to take care of the baby, illustrating the values of teamwork and consideration for others.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's daily life by encouraging them to participate in joint activities and share responsibilities with siblings and peers, fostering cooperative skills.
Example Lesson: Expression of emotions
Explanation: Throughout the book, family members openly express their happiness and love, teaching children the importance of expressing their feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to communicate their emotions effectively and openly, leading to healthier emotional development and interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of kindness and gentleness
Explanation: The gentle way the family members handle the baby and interact with each other serves as a model for kind behavior.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by practicing kindness and gentleness in their interactions with friends and family, promoting a positive and caring environment.