Emmy's Eczema

BOOK: 32 page full colour picture book ideal 5-8 years.- by by Jack Hughes (Author)

The story is about Emmy who is a dinosaur and her struggle not to scratch her itchy eczema. She tries really hard but sometimes the temptation is just too much and she gives in making her eczema sore. Daniel loves joining in with the Scratch, Scratch, Scratch part. Her friends try and help her by saying don't scratch Emmy but Emmy has to discover that scratching doesn't help for herself. At the end of the story Emmy recognises that scratching isn't the best idea and really mums special cream isn't that bad! We have re-read it several times.

The illustrations are delightful and the fact they characters are dinosaurs makes the book very approachable.

Perfect for Child Cares and Primary Schools to have as part of their PSHE curriculum but also for any children between 2 ½ and 6 who suffer from eczema.

Book review by Megan Daley

I have a few friends with little ones who have eczema, and have taught countless children over the years who have suffered with eczema and other skin conditions. With parental permission, it is great to sensitively and openly discuss medical conditions which might be present in your classroom, family or extended circle of family and friends. Literature deals with some tough subjects and childhood illness is one them.

The little series of books I’m reviewing here today deal with deafness, eczema, poor eyesight and stammers. They are aimed at very young children, so are full of humour, friendship and lots of brightly coloured dinosaurs. Children who have any of these conditions will love seeing their experiences reflected in a book.

In ‘Emmy’s Eczema’, Emmy the dinosaur has eczema, which makes her skin really itchy. She knows she shouldn’t scratch, but sometimes she just can’t help it. The cream that her mum has is really sticky and icky and she doesn’t like it. Her mum makes cream for her out of flowers (humans of course go to the pharmacy!) and one day she runs out of the flowers. Emmy’s skin starts to get so itchy and red. Emmy’s friends Dachy, Steggie and Rex (all dinosaurs) help her to find more flowers and calm her skin down.

It’s a super simple story but it explains the major symptoms of the condition. Might need to tell your little ones that humans use cream not flowers for relief or your garden might be stripped of flowers!

IMPORTANT: Illustrated kids' books about allergies serve several important purposes for children:

1. Education: These books provide a child-friendly and relatable way to learn about allergies. They explain what allergies are, common allergens, and how to recognize allergic reactions. This knowledge empowers children to understand their own allergies or those of their friends and classmates.

2. Empathy and Understanding: Allergy-themed books help foster empathy in children. They teach kids to be considerate of others who may have allergies and to be aware of potential allergens. This can reduce the risk of accidentally causing harm to their peers with allergies.

3. Safety: Children with allergies need to know how to keep themselves safe. Allergy books often include practical tips on avoiding allergens, carrying medications (like EpiPens), and seeking help in case of an allergic reaction. This knowledge can be life-saving.

4. Reducing Fear and Anxiety: Allergies can be frightening for children, especially if they've experienced severe reactions. Illustrated books can help demystify allergies, making them less scary and more manageable for kids. This can reduce anxiety and increase their confidence in managing their allergies.

5. Inclusivity: These books promote inclusivity by raising awareness of allergies and their impact. They help create a more supportive and understanding environment for children with allergies, ensuring they feel included and safe in social settings.

6. Healthy Eating Habits: Some allergy-themed books focus on food allergies. These books can help children with allergies and their peers make informed food choices, promoting healthier eating habits and ensuring that everyone can enjoy meals together safely.

7. Reading and Literacy Skills: Illustrated books are a fantastic tool for developing reading and literacy skills in children. By using engaging visuals and relatable stories, allergy-themed books encourage kids to read and learn.

In summary, illustrated kids' books about allergies are beneficial because they educate, promote empathy, enhance safety, reduce fear and anxiety, foster inclusivity, encourage healthy habits, and support literacy development. These books play a crucial role in helping children navigate a world where allergies are increasingly common.