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Film Strips
Letting them tell their story of what's happening in the family by drawing or writing it out on a film strip is a creative way to understand the child's world and thoughts, while also feeding in accurate information. In this way, you can find out what a child knows (or believes is real) before launching into telling them more information.
Julie Stokes, who used this technique with several children in the Mummy Diaries series, says the activity usually works best with someone outside the immediate family setting it up and prompting, with the children drawing or writing their words on the strip. Parents can then come and listen, and respond to the children's experience of the serious illness journey. Many parents find it very moving and helpful to witness the depth and understanding revealed.
One mum described her experience of using a film strip with her children like this:
'From hearing them tell the story of my illness and the effect on the family through the film strip, I realised the children had reserves of strength and character that were truly amazing. Overnight it seemed to allow them to become more self-sufficient, have greater self-confidence and show me that we were in this together. I am so proud of them, and now they know that too!'
How to fill it in
© Winston's Wish
Include as much information as possible and don't get obsessed with any one part. Finish with details of how life is now, who's important to you, what's changed and what the future might be. And don't be afraid of leaving frames blank at the end for if your parent recovers or if they need more treatment. Lastly, keep your film strip safe as a story prompt for later.
