And so, things have been a bit different. Ben’s story
(This book is ONLY for children whose parents have given their health)
(This book is ONLY suitable for children whose parents have given their health in service). Please read the book before sharing it with children.
- Storybook: So, things have been a bit Different. Bens Story
- Accompanying Educational Activities (puppets, puzzles, matching games, sight words, card games, board games, sequencing and storytelling games)
- audio read-along recording
- Commercially printed book All eBooks, interactive eBooks, downloadable (printable) versions of the book and teaching materials are free due to our wonderful funders. You can also order (and pay for) commercial, professionally printed books. Click here to order.
- Digitised eBook: (requires constant internet)
To access all of these resources, please visit the Children’s Resource Modules.
About the book
In an Australian first, children’s picture books have been created using research for free online programs to assist parents in better supporting young children whose parents give their health in service to their country.
‘And so things have been a bit different’ explores the emotional and physical roller-coaster of a family that has a parent who is injured when they are on service. It is particularly targeted at families who experience this and helps the parents start conversations about the changes in their family and develop emotional understanding and build resilience.
The 3 books we are creating will look at physical injuries and mental health conditions in an age-appropriate way. They will be used in 3 of our program modules that are for very specific families who have experienced these issues. They will have extension activities for parents to use with children. Additionally, for the parents themselves, there will be information about some of the challenges, potential sources of support, ways to transition the family to the new reality, and ways to build understanding and resilience in the family unit.
Here is our graphic illustrator, Raph Roberts from the UNE LaTT (Educational Futures) Media Team, working on our eBooks.
Desperately seeking feedback
Thanks for test-driving our Early Childhood Defence Program project resources.
We desperately need feedback so that we can:
- improve our resources,
- let our funders know if the resources are effective, or need improving, and
- apply for further funding to produce more resources to support children and families.
This survey should only take about 5 minutes, and we really appreciate your time.
Other similar books
Here is another page showing a similar book called ‘Oh, by the way, my Mum has PTS’ with an interactive version. Here is another page showing a similar book called ‘In sickness and in health: Sam’s story’ with an interactive version.
How to access these free books
Where and when can I get access to these books? Please have a look at our timeline to see when we finish evaluations and release them to the public for free. If you want early access, please register to test-drive our resources here.
Explore other resources:
- educator’s and family worker resources
- parent’s resources
- Auslan Keyword Signing resources (for those with disability or language delays, or those wanting to learn Auslan Keyword Signing)
- planned educator and parent program module topics
- academic and policymaker resources
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