The Mystery of the Patchwork Heart: A Heart Condition Awareness Book
What’s inside...
Born Abel is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and highlighting the value and abilities of babies and children born with complex health conditions. They provide mom-to-mom support, connect families with advocacy resources, and provide baby and pregnancy necessities. They also publish kid-friendly books featuring these children, with all proceeds benefiting the Born Abel Foundation. Their latest book, 'The Mystery of the Patchwork Heart,' tells the story of Abel solving a mystery about his heart condition, featuring illustrations of real children. Visit www.BornAbel.com for more information and resources.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-18
Length
43 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it feels like to have a heart condition like the character in the book?
Why is it important to be kind and supportive to friends who may be going through health challenges?
How can we help friends or family members who have health issues feel loved and included?
What did you learn about heart conditions from this story?
How do you think the mystery in the book helped in understanding the heart condition?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to imagine how they would feel in the character’s situation.
Discuss the importance of friendship and support systems in overcoming challenges.
Help your child connect the story to real-life situations by discussing if they know anyone with similar health issues and how they think they can support them.
Use the book as a starting point to educate your child further about heart conditions, using age-appropriate language and resources.
Praise your child for thoughtful responses and encourage them to ask questions about things they’re curious or unclear about.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The book portrays characters who learn about and support a friend with a heart condition, showcasing acts of kindness and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more empathetic and supportive towards friends who may have different health challenges.
Example Lesson: Awareness of Heart Conditions
Explanation: Through the mystery surrounding the patchwork heart, the story educates about heart conditions in an engaging manner.
Real-World Application: This knowledge can help children understand real-world health issues and the importance of medical care and compassion.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The characters work together to solve the mystery, demonstrating the strength and importance of teamwork and friendship.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperation and building strong, supportive relationships with their peers.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: As the characters in the book come together to uncover the mystery of the patchwork heart, they use critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think critically and creatively when faced with challenges or puzzles in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Advocacy and Voice
Explanation: The book highlights how young characters advocate for their friend with a heart condition, giving them a voice and raising awareness.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of speaking up for others and being proactive in helping make a difference in their communities.