I can be your mummy too

It was a rainy night. The winds were such a fright. No light could be seen. No one in sight.

In the middle of the rain, a tiny kitten was left weary. Cold and afraid, her name was Kiri.

“I’m lost and afraid. My mummy is missing. I wish I was warm. Does my mummy miss me?”

But to her rescue, two puppies came along. Dilo and Moli, to help her through the storm.

“You look lost and afraid. Come, we’ll take you to our place. We can give you warmth and shade and share our space.”

Rani, their mummy was surprised. Her puppies with a new friend had arrived. “This is Kiri, she’s lost and alone and needs a new home.”

Rani gave Kiri a hug to make her feel snug. She said “Oh little one, I can be your mum.”

Now Kiri, Rani, Dilo, and Moli were snuggly and warm. They were one happy family away from the storm.

This Book is part of a set of materials for children and caregivers in Fiji to help meet the psychosocial needs and caregivers after Cyclone Winston.

This set of materials was produced during a pioneering workshop in Suva during 4-9 April, 2016. A unique group of participants came together to produce a gift to the children of Fiji. People from the Ministries of Education, Health, Social Welfare and Information, together with participants from a range of NGOs, the University of the South Pacifi?c and some of the most creative talent in the country developed materials to help children heal and to support their courage and resiliency.

Children’s di?fficult emotions during there di?fficult times are normal and they should be acknowledged and accepted. These emotions come after a disaster but they are part of everyday life as well. Our hope is that these materials will help them feel that they are not alone, that there are many helpers and caregivers to support them. This include children and adults with disabilities and those from marginalized groups who have a role to play in contributing to positive change in their families and communities.

We hope that you will use these materials in many creative ways. In addition, we know that you will come up with your own excellent ideas to help and support children during and after a natural disaster and in everyday life. We welcome your feedback on the materials and your suggestions for improvements and additional needs of Fijian children.

INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANT: Barbara Kolucki, GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Rusiate Duke Lawalevu, Hugh Baleinagasau, STORY AND CONTRIBUTION: Peter Sipeli, Ela Tukutukulevu, Kantha Mani, Isikeli Drevacu, Ramakita Seru, Arara Dutt, Litia Naitanui, Salote Rokotogalevu, Makereta Vuniwaqa, Alelia Nagatalevu, FACILITATOR: Laisani Peterson, ILLUSTRATOR: Rusiate Duke Lawalevu

All Rights Reserved © UNICEF 2016