Book Addresses Problems With Dummies!

Feb. 7, 2012 - PRLog -- Developed from Michelle’s own experiences, The Diddy Tree assists parents with children who are reluctant to give up this long-term habit. Illustrated by up-and-coming artist, Terry Cooper, the book presents a positive outcome on taking this decision.

Shaun Russell, director of Candy Jar Books, believes that such a book is long overdue. He said: “Although sucking a dummy has long been seen as a good way to soothe a fussy baby or aid restful sleep, parents are becoming more aware of the dangers of dependence. The Diddy Tree aims to help parents wean their children off these dummies before problems with development set in.”

This charming book, filled with colourful and engaging illustrations, tells the story of a Lee – a three-year-old boy who loves his dummies, which he calls ‘Diddies’.  
Lee like to take his Diddies everywhere, but his mum is concerned that her little boy is getting too old for them. She decides to construct a ‘Diddy Tree’ –made from pieces of card glued together. She explains that if Lee puts his dummies on this Diddy Tree there will be a wonderful surprise waiting for him the following day.
Lee is anxious, but with some encouragement agrees to hang his dummies on the tree. The following morning, Lee rushes downstairs to see what has happened to the Diddy Tree. To his delight, he sees gifts on the branches – replacing of his dummies.

Some professionals have voiced concerns that dummies contribute to dental and speech issues in children.

Dr Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of the at the British Dental Health Foundation (1), supports the aim of the book. She saidadvises: “If you canWe recommend children avoid using a dummy and discourage thumb sucking. These both eventually cause problems with how the teeth grow and develop. This may need treatment with a brace when the child gets older.”

“Of course it is not always possible to avoid using a dummy.  In this situation we recommend ‘orthodontic’ soothers or dummies that are designed to reduce the risk of developmental problems in the future.

However, Michelle McKenna, the writer of The Diddy Tree, is passionate that children should not be forced to give up the dummy. She said: “Since writing the book I have spoken to numerous parents struggling with the same issue. Often people find it difficult to take this leap. They are concerned that their children will not sleep or will become distracted easily. I faced these problems too, which is why I have made my book as fun as possible. Encouraging them to ditch their dummies as part of a game makes the process much easier.”

Please visit www.thediddytree.co.uk

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Candy Jar Ltd is a publishing and video production company. We develop ideas for TV and Film, publish books (in audio format as well as print) and produce special interest DVDs.