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Discover How a Bilingual Children's Book Aims to Address Alzheimer's Challenges

Update Breaking Barriers Through StorytellingIn an innovative step toward addressing complex emotional topics, Silvio Delgado’s new bilingual children’s book, Juntos: Living With Alzheimer’s, offers a unique lens on a difficult subject. Set against the backdrop of childhood curiosity and innocence, the story follows young Silvio and his siblings as they prepare for a trip to visit their grandparents. But unlike traditional tales, this one acknowledges the looming specter of Alzheimer’s disease, blending English and Spanish in a way that is approachable and relatable for children of bilingual backgrounds.The Importance of Discussing EmotionsDelgado, a St. Petersburg resident, reflects on his own childhood experiences. He recalls a lack of conversations about profound emotions within his family. By creating Juntos, he hopes to fill that gap for other families. He understands that children need space to discuss not only the narrative of a story but also their personal feelings regarding complex issues. "I wanted to help families engage in storytelling while expressing their own feelings," he remarked during an interview.Bibliotherapy: Healing Through BooksDelgado describes Juntos as a form of bibliotherapy, which Psychology Today defines as a therapeutic approach that involves the use of literature as a means to support mental health. This perspective gives the book added depth, allowing it to serve not just as a story, but as a valuable resource for families grappling with similar experiences. The narrative is crafted to bring comfort and understanding, transcending personal family stories to embrace universal truths.Welcoming Multicultural PerspectivesWhat sets Juntos apart from other children’s literature addressing Alzheimer’s is its bilingual approach. By switching seamlessly between English and Spanish, the book honors the fluidity of language in bilingual homes while making the important themes accessible to a wider audience. This inclusivity fosters an environment where both Spanish-speakers and English-speakers can engage with the material, enriching the reading experience.A Universal Message of TogethernessConclusively, the title Juntos—which means 'together' in Spanish—perfectly encapsulates the essence of the book. In a world often divided by language and experience, Delgado reminds us that through storytelling, we can bridge those gaps. For children and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s, this book offers not only solace but also a compelling conversation starter, ensuring no one feels alone in their journey.