Dennis lives with Grandma and Grandpa
The Dennis Duckling series of picture books provides a range of opportunities to talk to looked after children about what is happening in their lives. In the first two books, Dennis and his little sister have to leave their parents and be looked after by a foster duck family. In this fourth book, it is decided that the ducklings will be looked after by their grandma and grandpa.
Dennis worries about where he and his sister will live. If they live with Grandma and Grandpa, will they still be able to see their parents? Who will decide about this? Will Grandma and Grandpa be able to look after them and keep them safe?
Through Dennis’ story, this colourful picture book explains about what may happen to a child in this situation – what decisions will be made and by whom, what kinship care will involve, and what contact children may have with parents – along with the difficulties this may cause. The simple text and open story ensures that Dennis lives with Grandma and Grandpa is a flexible resource that can be used with children in a range of settings and circumstances.
Who is this book for?
This book is ideal for very young children (aged 2–5 years old) who are being looked after, and who are, or are expected to be, looked after by relatives.
What you will find in this book
The book contains a booklet with brief guidelines and worksheets which are intended to aid and facilitate discussion and to help children express their thoughts and feelings about transitions.
Paul Sambrooks is a qualified social worker. The Dennis Duckling character was originally created by Barbara Orritt in 1981. Paul revised the story to create this new edition.
Tommaso Levente Tani is a Tuscan book illustrator and author.
The illustrations are simple, colourful and full of expressive faces (the little ducklings worried eyebrows are particularly good!), and this will be of very real use to children who are facing a new and different life.
Written in a way that young children can understand and explains questions that a young child would innocently ask given their difficult family circumstances.