How fiction can help parents tackle tough topics with their kids
- by WONDERMOM
- April 11, 2025
Three children’s authors share the real-life challenges that inspired their books
Navigating the journey of parenthood is becoming ever more complex in a world of increasing uncertainty. Approaching tough topics with kids is important for their understanding and social development, but how do you start those difficult conversations? Three children’s book authors from Dubai-based publisher, The Dreamwork Collective, explain how fiction can help parents to tackle this typical parenting challenge.
Starting the conversation
Experienced in starting conversations through her profession as a radio broadcaster, Helen Farmer has penned two children’s books, with the most recent, My family’s Secret Superpowers, tackling the issue of childhood anxiety. A mother of two, Farmer says, “Both my books were born out of identifying stories that we needed as a family. By addressing topics like anxiety and working motherhood through storytelling, I try to create a safe space for open conversations between children and their caregivers.”
Paralympian and inclusion consultant, Jessica Smith OAM, is author of the Just Jessica series, a heart-warming collection of stories about embracing what makes us different. Drawing on her own lived experiences, Smith says, “When I was growing up I never saw myself or disability portrayed positively. Historically disability was always depicted through a character playing the villain or the 'bad guy'. This misrepresentation impacted my own identity as a child, and I wanted to change the narrative for myself, my own children and all children living with disability.”
Christa Moreau is a French photographer, mother of two young children and author of The Perfume of Roses. The story follows a kind-hearted Moroccan girl who nurtures a friendship with a young visually impaired visitor through the magic of scent. Emphasising the importance of characterisation, Moreau says, “Through relatable characters and engaging narratives, children can process complex experiences in a way that feels manageable. Stories can offer reassurance, show them they’re not alone, and even give them tools to cope with challenges.”
Striking the balance
When discussing sensitive subjects with children, it can be difficult to create the right balance between raising awareness and raising concern. Moreau explains, “It’s all about presenting information gently and with hope. I believe in focusing on positive messages and resilience,while acknowledging challenges in an age-appropriate way. In my stories, difficult topics are woven into a larger narrative that emphasizes beauty, growth, and connection.”
On her own approach to striking the balance, Farmer says, “My books acknowledge difficult feelings without making them seem insurmountable, always offering practical solutions or a comforting resolution. Using gentle language, jokes, and positive outcomes ensures that children feel supported rather than scared.”
Explaining how illustration plays an important role in conveying messages in a calming way, Smith says,“Illustrations are incredibly powerful, especially for young readers who often connect with visual storytelling before they engage with written words. They can help to convey emotions, context, and subtle messages that words alone might not capture.”
Keeping an open dialogue
All three authors say that their books are a starting point, from which parents can continue and develo
p the dialogue. Moreau says, “I’d encourage parents to read the book with their children and use it as a conversation starter. Asking open-ended questions can help children reflect on the story and connect it to their own experiences. The book is also a wonderful opportunity to introduce new cultural traditions, talk about nature, and nurture empathy and awareness through discussion.”
Smith explains, “Reading together provides a great opportunity to talk openly about differences in a way that feels natural. Kids are incredibly perceptive and learn from the way adults react. Books like these can help guide discussions in a way that feels engaging rather than instructional. Most importantly, I’d encourage parents to include diverse books in their everyday reading, not just as a ‘lesson’, but as part of a normal and inclusive bookshelf.”
Reflecting on her recent book, Farmer concludes, “Asking questions like, “Have you ever felt like this?” or “What do you think the character should do next?” can help children express their own thoughts and feelings. Most importantly, reading should be a shared experience that fosters connection and understanding. There’s nothing better than a cuddle and good story.”
My family’s Secret Superpowers by Helen Farmer, The Perfume of Roses by Christa Moreau and the Just Jessica series books by Jessica Smith are available at www.thedreamworkcollective.store