April is Cesarean Awareness Month, and Sunshine Coast author Alice Ebert is marking the occasion by releasing a children’s book to help young kids understand the temporary changes when their mother has a baby via c-section.
The mum-of-two said a lack of child-friendly resources to help little ones through these changes inspired her to write ‘Mummy has an Ouchie on her Tummy’.
“We prepared our toddler a lot for the impending arrival of his baby brother. We talked about how I wouldn’t be able to pick him up as I was having a planned c-section,” Alice said.
“I thought it would be lovely to have a book for him about what to expect, but there were none that I could find. While I was on maternity leave last year with my second baby, I decided to progress this idea to help other families.”
The book explores common family scenarios where ‘Mummy’ is unable to do some things in the early days and weeks while recovering from a c-section.
“It can be difficult for young children to understand why their Mummy can’t pick them up for a cuddle, carry them to bed, or go swimming with them after they’ve had a c-section. While there are some things ‘Mummy’ can’t do for a little while, she still shows her love in many ways,” Alice said.
“The book is designed to help young children understand the changes they’ll experience for a little while, in an age-appropriate way.”
Alice said part of her vision for the book was to ensure it included diversity.
“It was really important to me that different families were represented,” Alice said.
“Any mum, regardless of culture, religion or sexual orientation, can have a c-section, and so I have included diverse families.
“The hand-painted watercolour illustrations by Cara Ord are simply gorgeous. The book has a lovely message and is beautiful to look at. It’s perfect for a c-section Mum having her second or subsequent baby.”
The book can be ordered online at www.aliceebertauthor.com.au
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