Bibliotherapy

Overview

Bibliotherapy is a therapeutic approach that uses books and reading to help individuals including children and young adults cope with emotional and psychological challenges. This course is designed for educators, librarians, counsellors and anyone interested in helping children and young adults through books (story books and self help books).

This course specifically focuses on understanding and applying bibliotherapy techniques for children and young adults. You will explore the use of children’s literature as a tool to address emotional, social and developmental challenges faced by young readers. Practical strategies, book selection and facilitation skills are also covered. At the end of the course, librarians, teachers and counsellors will be able to use children bibliotherapy as part of children development and mental well being and be able the skills into their practice to incorporate.

Course Content

1.  Understand the fundamentals of bibliotherapy and its relevance in development

2.  Identify and select appropriate books for specific emotional and psychological needs

3. Develop effective strategies to engage children in bibliotherapeutic discussions

4. Facilitate bibliotherapy sessions, fostering emotional intelligence and empathy

5. Recognise common emotional and social challenges in children and address them through lifetime

6. Create a supportive and inclusive reading environment

Module 1: Introduction to bibliotherapy

Defining bibliotherapy and its history

Understanding the psychological and emotional benefits

Ethical considerations in bibliotherapy

Module 2: Book selection

Criteria for selecting age appropriate books

Thematic selection based on  challenges and diverse representation in literature

 Module 3: Strategies in reading

Creative reading technique for difference age group

Encouraging discussion and reflection through open-ended questions

The role of art and journalism in bibliotherapy

Module 4: Facilitating bibliotherapy Session

Effective communication and active listening skills

Building trust and rapport with young readers

Adapting sessions to individual and group needs

Module 5: Practical Application and case studies

Advisory common challenges such as anxiety, grief and friendship issues

Collaborative projects and activities based on selected books

Integrating bibliotherapy into educational and counselling settings

Course Materials

Sample bibliotherapy lesson plan

Bibliotherapy Venn diagram

Character weaves

Selected books for discussion and practice

Journal for reflection and observation

Bibliotherapy resources