New book helps young children understand c-section changes

Burnside author Alice Ebert is releasing a children’s book during Caesarean Awareness Month (April) to help young children understand the temporary changes they experience when their mother has another baby by 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 and 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.”

• The book can be ordered online at www.aliceebertauthor.com.au

Author, Alice Ebert